A familiar name in Phoenix design is making the jump from restaurants to residences. Architect developer John Labahn – the creative mind behind Ocotillo restaurant – has teamed up with Chicago architect Erik Johnson to bring their first residential community to Midtown.
Their new project, Soleil, is a sleek 20-unit modern townhome development tucked along 3rd Street and Windsor, and sales for phase one are officially underway through Alice Blakely at The Brokery.
Soleil’s homes are designed with space and lifestyle in mind. Each unit spans between 2,097 and 2,359 square feet across four stories, with two to three bedrooms, two-and-a-half to three baths, roomy rooftop decks and one- or two-car garages. Prices start at $850,000, reflecting the prime location and level of design that Labahn and Johnson have built their reputations on.
Labahn’s roots in the neighborhood run deep. Not only is Ocotillo a short walk away, but he was also an early advocate for improving the 3rd Street corridor.
Back in 2021 and 2022, he worked hand-in-hand with the City of Phoenix on the 3rd Street Improvement Project, which brought in 150 new trees, shade structures, crosswalks and bike lanes, all part of an effort to make the area more pedestrian-friendly and welcoming.
“Soleil offers beautiful design and modern living in the heart of the city,” Labahn said. “With the multi-level design and rooftop terraces, these homes are well-suited for those who work from home and appreciate the ease of owning a low-maintenance property near great restaurants, museums, schools, and all Downtown and Midtown have to offer!”
Johnson said the design inspiration traces back to 1920s Europe, to the iconic work of Le Corbusier:
“Our design emulates many of the characteristics associated with Le Corbusier’s style of architecture, known as Early Modern,” he said. “Long horizontal ‘ribbon windows’ maximize light and views, rooftop terraces create functional outdoor living space, and smooth geometric shapes create a minimal modern aesthetic.”
Soleil is built with efficiency in mind. The townhomes feature bright interiors with “brise-soleil,” a design element that helps block harsh sun and reduce heat. Each level has its own independently operated A/C unit, garages are EV-ready, and the landscaping leans into native, desert-friendly plants.
With phase one now open, Blakely encourages interested buyers to check out the property in person. Model home tours are available at 312 E. Windsor Avenue Thursday-Sunday. For more: sellingsoleil.com.
