Looking Back

Camelback Inn

Though there’s no want of luxury resorts in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Camelback Inn found its niche as the premiere purveyor of southwestern ambiance.

Founded in 1936 by Jack Stewart, the Pueblo design featuring flagstone floors and adobe bricks drew the elite to the picturesque property from the beginning.

In 2007, the resort embarked on a renewal project to recapture the hallmarks of designer Edward Loomis Bowes’ original Hacienda-style Main Lodge and pull them throughout the additions that came subsequently.

“We don’t want to abandon the soul and the spirit that makes Camelback Inn unique,” says Director of Marketing Clark Albright. “However, we want to convey it with a contemporary flair — using textures, patterns, fabrics and colors rather than cowboy hats, saddles, sombreros and piñatas.” Throughout construction original features such as adobe brick, wood work and beams have been carefully preserved and reused.

A relaxed atmosphere and more social gathering areas are characteristic of the changes, which include a dynamic courtyard, outdoor social spaces and a new ballroom.

Photo and rendering courtesy of the Camelback Inn

If you go

Camelback Inn

5402 East Lincoln Dr., Scotsdale

camelbackinn.com

480-948-1700

For photos and updates on the progress of Camelback Inn's historic renovation project, visit thelegendgrows.com.