Paloma represents a new era of modern desert architecture, where timeless design, sustainable living, and refined craftsmanship converge. Developed by MODUS Companies and designed by Drewett Works, this collection of luxury villas is redefining what it means to live beautifully in the desert.
Paloma’s collaborative vision brings together some of Arizona’s most respected design talents: architect C.P. Drewett, developer Ed Gorman, interior designer Holly Wright, and design and real estate expert Nicole Kobrinsky of House Gallery.
Timeless Architecture for Today’s Desert Lifestyle
For lead architect C.P. Drewett, Paloma is more than a residential project – it’s a study in organic modernism, an approach that honors the desert while embracing contemporary living.
“Our approach was not driven by trends but by a commitment to creating something enduring and attuned to the environment,” Drewett said. “We wanted homes that exude warmth and embrace, rather than feeling cold or overly minimalist.”
Paloma’s architecture reflects timeless design principles: elevated living spaces that capture mountain views, generous natural light, and a connection between interior and exterior spaces. Each home feels rooted in its surroundings, creating a tranquil retreat that’s as functional as it is beautiful.
“We emphasize natural light and authentic materials that will remain relevant for generations,” Drewett said. “It’s about creating homes that live well now and decades from now.”
Sustainability Meets Luxury Living
At Paloma, sustainability isn’t an afterthought. Ed Gorman, CEO of MODUS Companies, explains that true sustainability begins with architecture that works with the desert, not against it.
“We used deep overhangs and horizontal planes to create shaded, energy-efficient environments that naturally cool the home before any systems kick in,” Gorman said.
Every residence incorporates Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) construction with spray foam insulation, creating a high-performance building envelope that significantly reduces energy use. Complemented by mini-split HVAC systems for individualized climate control, these energy-efficient homes deliver comfort with minimal environmental impact.
“Every element, from rooflines to landscaping, is designed to respond to the desert climate,” Gorman said. “It’s sustainability that looks good, lives well, and performs smartly in every season.”
Interiors That Balance Minimalism and Warmth
Inside, Holly Wright of Holly Wright Designs brings the architectural vision to life through interiors that embody effortless sophistication and livable luxury.
“Minimalism isn’t about emptiness, it’s about editing with purpose,” Wright said. “Every material and texture serves a function and contributes to a calm, cohesive whole.”
Her palette of organic woods, natural stone, and layered lighting softens the desert’s bold backdrop. The result is a harmonious balance of modern minimalism and inviting warmth, perfectly aligned with today’s preference for homes that are stylish and livable.
“Today’s buyers value practicality and easy maintenance as much as beauty,” Wright said. “Paloma offers both: spaces that feel luxurious but are designed for real life.”
Meeting the Evolving Demands of Scottsdale Homebuyers
Nicole Kobrinsky, real estate and design consultant for House Gallery, says that Paloma speaks directly to the evolving expectations of luxury homebuyers – many relocating from major metropolitan markets.
“Buyers from Los Angeles, New York, and Vancouver are seeking quality over square footage,” Kobrinsky said. “Paloma delivers craftsmanship, integrated technology, and a level of curation that rivals custom homes, and is made for those who value aesthetics, efficiency, and timeless value.”
Positioned as a “right-sized” lock-and-leave villa community, Paloma caters to those who desire architectural significance, sustainability, and convenience.
Designing Luxury Homes for the Desert Environment
Building luxury homes in the desert comes with unique challenges, from managing heat and light to creating comfort and intimacy in vast landscapes. But for the Paloma team, these challenges became opportunities. Drewett said that the desert’s contrast – its brilliance and starkness – inspired the design.
“We used clerestory glass and glazing above millwork to frame the light, ensuring interiors feel vibrant and alive,” he said. “Materiality was crucial: saturated stone, metal, and textured surfaces that felt modern and grounded. It’s about responding to the environment rather than fighting it. The desert becomes part of the architecture.”
Wright complements this philosophy through interiors that echo the landscape’s richness, using organic materials and layered tones to soften and warm each space.
A Vision for the Future of Desert Living
Paloma stands as a forward-thinking model for sustainable desert living, an example of how design, technology, and craftsmanship can come together to elevate everyday life.
“We’re future proofing these homes,” Drewett said. “Not just aesthetically but functionally anticipating how people will want to live10 or 20 years from now.”
Paloma sets a new benchmark for Scottsdale – a community that honors the landscape, celebrates timeless design, and defines the next generation of desert luxury. Learn more at palomascottsdale.com.
