Tucked into the desert landscape of Scottsdale, Arizona, Taliesin West is full of architectural surprises—but one of my favorite spaces was the serene and sun-soaked Garden Room. As a plant lover and design enthusiast, I couldn’t help but take a closer look at the unique greenery scattered throughout the space. Join me for a mini plant tour inside one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most beautifully personal rooms.
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We recently took a trip to visit family in Arizona. My husband, Tim, grew up in the Scottsdale area, and we try to make it back every few years. Tim is a designer, currently focused on high-rise buildings, but with a background in residential design. His influences are wide-ranging, from architects and artists to styles and movements, but growing up in the Arizona desert has definitely left its mark on his influence.
On this visit, we didn’t want to miss the chance to explore Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and the former campus of his School of Architecture. The kids are finally old enough to appreciate…not necessarily the intricacies of design, but at least things that are cool and different from what we see every day in the Pacific Northwest. The visit absolutely lived up to the hype (and yes, the gift shop was fantastic too!). Come along as I take you through the Garden Room at Taliesin West.
Frank Lloyd Wright
Frank Lloyd Wright was a pioneering American architect, interior designer, and writer, best known for his innovative approach to organic architecture, designing structures that harmonize with their natural surroundings. Over his 70-year career, he created more than 1,000 designs, with iconic works like Fallingwater and the Guggenheim Museum in New York City. Wright’s influence extends far beyond architecture, shaping modern design principles and inspiring generations of architects around the world.
Taliesin West
Taliesin West was born out of Frank Lloyd Wright’s desire to escape the harsh winters of Wisconsin and to create a desert retreat where he could live, work, and teach. In 1937, Wright and his apprentices from the Taliesin Fellowship traveled to the Sonoran Desert near Scottsdale, Arizona, and began building what would become his winter home and architectural laboratory.
Using local materials like desert rocks and sand mixed with cement, they built structures that blended into the arid landscape. Wright viewed the desert not as something to conquer but as a partner in design. Taliesin West evolved constantly, with Wright experimenting on-site and modifying the buildings over time.
It also served as a campus for the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture, making it not just a residence or studio, but a hub of architectural innovation and education.
The Garden Room
As you make your way up the path to the Garden Room, it’s hard to miss the checkered roof, a bold design choice that immediately caught my eye. I’ve always been a sucker for checkerboard patterns, and this was easily one of my favorite elements. It’s a motif that pops up in several spots throughout the building, giving everything a playful yet intentional rhythm.
Just outside, there’s a charming little patio area with cozy seating shaded by a canvas sun cover—perfect for staying cool during those long desert days.
I couldn’t resist snapping a mirror selfie when I stepped into the Garden Room. As you round the corner, you’re greeted by a built-in stone planter, housing what I can only assume are some long-standing plant residents. The first is a Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum (formerly known as Philodendron selloum), nestled in a terracotta pot on the ground. It’s such a welcoming touch, sitting just beneath a striking piece of artwork made from natural materials like rock, wood, and metal. Honestly, it gave me a few DIY ideas!
In the planter itself, I spotted a Syngonium alongside what I believe to be a Philodendron erubescens. They’re thriving, but wait until you see the reverse side—same plants, but with more sunlight pouring in through the ceiling. That desert sun, filtered through Wright’s ingenious design, truly helps keep the foliage lush and vibrant.
Admittedly, I was a little surprised by the minimal plant life. With a name like “Garden Room,” I expected a more immersive botanical vibe. But then I reminded myself…we are in the desert. Even so, the space itself—the ceiling, the built-ins, the colors, the mood—was genuinely inspiring.
As you exit the Garden Room, you pass through a dining area (currently missing a dining table), but it does feature a bold red bench with built-in shelving and yet another fireplace—one of many throughout the property. Stepping outside, you’re greeted by a stunning Ficus elastica that feels like a gentle send-off as you continue your journey through the incredible grounds of Taliesin West.
I couldn’t leave without picking up a few treasures from the gift shop—some to give as gifts, and a few I’ll be happily keeping for myself! The images are linked for your convenience to easily buy on Amazon, but you can also shop the Frank Lloyd Wright Store here.
