El Chorro Lodge

Paradise Valley, Arizona

Built in 1934, in the majestic shadows of Camelback and Mummy mountains, on 11 desert acres in Paradise Valley, Arizona, El Chorro is an inspired, legacy property providing a unique dining and entertainment experience.
El Chorro Lodge was originally built as the Judson School for Girls, developed by John C. Lincoln in 1934. The school was purchased by Jan and Mark Gruber in 1937 and converted to a restaurant and lodge. Clark Gable, Milton Berle and other prominent figures visited the lodge in its early days. In the 1950s, the lodge became a favorite of Arizona families and local celebrities, including David Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Sustainable Strategies

• White roofs, shade, and porous, stabilized, decomposed granite parking areas greatly reduce heat island effect.

• Reused materials include walls, slabs, and roof structures, plus salvaged roof tiles, wood beams, and numerous replanted trees.

• Large, open spaces are landscaped with Sonoran desert plant materials and trees.

• Power use is lowered via high efficiency HVAC systems, thermal water heating, and PV panels that also cover parking.

• Door and window panels fold open to the exterior surroundings exposing dining areas to natural ventilation, daylighting, and beautiful mountain and garden views.

Project Results

• 50% of the total annual energy consumption off set by a solar PV system

• 25% more vegetated open space than zoning requirements

• 48% energy cost savings above ASHRAE 90.1-1999 energy standard

• 75% of waste diverted from landfill

• 28% of building materials extracted, harvested, or recovered and manufactured within a 500 mile radius