Arcadia Home & Design
May 15, 2013
May 15, 2013, page 14

Page 14 Using minimalist design, architect Al Beadle had a large impact on the Arizona desert. Beadle was trained in construction during World War II as a Seabee, a member of the United States Navy Construction Battalion. The Seabees were known for building bases, developing thousands of miles of roadway and airstrips and a variety of other construction projects needed during wartime. Beadle moved to Phoenix in 1950. Although he had not acquired an archit- ectural license, he immediately began commercial and residential projects. Using Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s style of architecture, Beadle brought an entirely new look to the Phoenix desert. Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886- 1969) was a German-American architect who worked to establish an architectural style that would signify the Modern era, just as Classical and Gothic had in times before him. Simple framework, industrial materials and the look of free- flowing spaces would eventually come together to represent both Mies and his modern style. Beadle was inspired, both by Mies’ work and his theories. Beadle would go on to design over a dozen residential properties throughout the Phoenix valley, as well as numerous office buildings, housing developments, and a hotel. His influence on desert modernism was outstanding. of ALFRED N E W M A N BE A DL E THE EVERLASTING I mpact avoid smashing fingers. It’s set on hydraulics and the speed can be changed as necessary. A floating wall in the master bedroom is an outstanding focal point. Made entirely of Terrazzo block, it’s eye catching and for functionality, creates an important room divider. A chalkboard wall in the playroom may hold the most extraordinary artwork of the entire home. Hand sketched by Roger Hurni is a beautiful representation of the family, standing in front of Saint Basil’s Cathedral. “From Russia With Love” is not only the proud title of the artwork, but a constant reminder to the children of where they came from and the love that brought them to their family. “We talk to the kids about their heritage all the time. We’re not shy about them being adopted and letting them know where they came from,” said Roger. Colorful artwork extends that idea in seven-year-old Reese’s bedroom. A sweet painting of nesting dolls (a typically hand- carved set of Russian dolls, decreasing in size and placed one inside another) hangs above the little girl’s bed. “Joanne and I work well together,” said Roger. “She has a real talent for surfaces, colors and accent pieces. My talents are in construction, aesthetics, quality and design. Together, we were able to accomplish everything we’d imagined.”

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