A striking new addition to the skyline has officially arrived, where Ray Phoenix is redefining what it means to live at the intersection of art, architecture and community. Located in the Roosevelt Row Arts District, the 26-story residential tower introduces a design-forward approach to multifamily living.
Co-developed by RAY and VELA, the building was designed by internationally recognized firm Johnston Marklee & Associates in partnership with Lamar Johnson Collaborative. Since breaking ground in 2024, the project has taken shape as a space that reflects the surrounding desert environment and the energy of Phoenix.
With approximately 523,000 square feet and 401 residential units ranging from studios to multi-level penthouses, the building offers a wide range of living options, many featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views of the city skyline and nearby mountains.
Its ground level includes retail space and a dedicated art exhibition venue, while the resident lobby is anchored by a commissioned, site-specific mural from Alex Israel.
Inspired by desert rock formations and native flora, the mural blends cinematic storytelling with hand-painted detail, creating a space that feels both immersive and reflective of the region’s identity. Indoor and outdoor gardens, created by Grace Fuller Design, incorporate native Sonoran Desert plantings, balancing lushness with sustainability.
A communal kitchen and fireplace lounge with views of Camelback Mountain, a resort-style pool, fitness center and yoga studio are designed to encourage connection while offering moments of retreat. Studio 105, a pop-up exhibition and event space curated by RAY, opens the door for residents and the public alike to engage through workshops, talks and installations. For the design team, the goal was to create something that feels both grounded in place and open to interpretation.
“Ray Phoenix is rooted in an elemental design approach that draws from the desert landscape, weaving different textures and subtle contrasts into a building that feels both grounded and distinct to the city’s skyline,” said Sharon Johnston, founding partner of Johnston Marklee & Associates.
“Much of the planting palette is drawn from species native to the Sonoran Desert ecoregion, rooting the project firmly in the landscape of Phoenix,” said Grace Fuller. “The majority of the plants are native to North America, and we were deliberate in combining perennials, cacti, and grasses to create a composition that feels immersive and abundant while remaining true to the region’s arid character.
“Water stewardship was a key consideration throughout, shaping both plant selection and density. We’re especially excited to see how the landscape will continue to fill in and evolve, becoming lusher and more expressive over time.” Ray Phoenix is now open and welcoming residents. For more: rayphoenix.place.
