Ball-Paylore House: A Desert Modern Icon

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Experience desert modernism at the Ball-Paylore House, a Tucson architectural gem with innovative passive solar design and unique 1950s charm.

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Ball-Paylore House

The Ball-Paylore House, designed in 1952 by Arthur T. Brown, is a prime example of post-WWII desert modern architecture in Tucson, Arizona. Built for two University of Arizona librarians, this small but innovative home features passive solar design and a unique hexagonal layout, making it a significant piece of architectural history.

A brief summary to Ball-Paylore House

2306 E Waverly St, Tucson, Catalina Vista, Arizona, 85719, US
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Local tips

Book in advance! Tours and overnight stays are available, but reservations are essential due to the house's popularity and limited availability.
Explore the Catalina Vista neighborhood, known for its historic homes and palm-lined streets.
Note that the house is small, so tours are best suited for small groups or individuals.

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Getting There

Walking

From the University of Arizona area, head east on Speedway Boulevard. Turn right onto Campbell Avenue, then left onto Waverly Street. The Ball-Paylore House will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take around 30 minutes.
Public Transport

From downtown Tucson, take the Sun Tran bus route 8 or 15 to the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Grant Road. From there, walk south on Campbell Avenue, then turn left onto Waverly Street. The Ball-Paylore House will be on your left. A single bus fare is $1.75.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Tucson International Airport, a taxi or ride-share to the Ball-Paylore House will take approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between $25-$35. From downtown Tucson, a ride-share will cost approximately $10-$15.

Discover more about Ball-Paylore House

The Ball-Paylore House, located in Tucson's historic Catalina Vista neighborhood, stands as an icon of desert modernism. Designed in 1952 by architect Arthur T. Brown for Phyllis Ball and Patricia Paylore, two librarians at the University of Arizona, the house is a pioneering example of passive solar design tailored to the harsh Sonoran Desert environment.Understated from the street, the 1,203-square-foot home opens into a dynamic space characterized by its hexagonal geometry and innovative use of materials. The interior features a combined living room, dining room, and kitchen area anchored by a central brick fireplace, with exposed beams radiating from the chimney. A wall of glass faces south, equipped with movable sunshades to regulate sunlight and temperature, showcasing an early passive solar system. The home also features built-in furniture crafted by artisan Jack Kelso.The house has been recognized as an important work since its construction, featured in local and national publications. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a City of Tucson Historic Landmark. Today, the Ball-Paylore House is owned by the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation, which offers tours and overnight stays, allowing visitors to experience this unique architectural gem.