Camped below the south slope of Camelback sits one of the oldest original adobe homes in the Valley. Built in 1927, the property is perfectly situated to overlook the entire Phoenix skyline. But there was a time long ago when the only views to be had from this locale were dirt roads, citrus groves and grazing fields.

For the last two years the historic home has undergone an aggressive remodel, increasing the square footage from 4,132 to 5,339 while maintaining the integrity and spirit of the residence.

From the original thick mahogany front door to hand-painted wood beams and antique chandeliers and fixtures, the home has held up remarkably well over time. The scored cement floors have been accented with rich reclaimed oak and replicated cedar windows have been built into the original jambs. An original fireplace was moved from the living room into the library and off of the library a patio area was converted into a naturally lit family room with giant cedar doors that disappear into the walls for optimal indoor/outdoor living.

Symington, an epicurean and baking enthusiast, had a hands-on role in redesigning the kitchen to include every modern amenity while delicately upholding the home’s intended style and historical perspective. Equipped with four ovens, a butler’s pantry with veggie sink and wine cooler, a sprawling island counter and walls of cabinets, this fully loaded kitchen can meet the needs of any chef.

“You have to give Fife all of the credit for having the vision and foresight to save this house and invest in it,” says Realtor Kathy Madison. “The respect paid to every detail is really unbelievable.” Walking through the home you can’t help but hearken back to much simpler times.

Oh, if these adobe walls could talk. During her last days, Virginia Ulman, who bought the property in the 1950s, hosted “Fez Fridays.” At 8 a.m. every Friday, Virginia’s two longtime tenants, Lucky and Bill, along with Virginia’s many influential friends, many of whom were lawyers, politicians and doctors, would gather around her bed wearing outrageous hats. There, they’d sit and listen to Virginia read the morning’s news. When she was done, Virginia—always the eccentric—would dismiss her friends like staff and they’d quietly exit and go about their days.

The upper level sleeping porch is now a quaint, enclosed office suite but you can close your eyes and imagine the days before air conditioning when families would seek respite from the desert heat by hanging dampened linens to capture the breeze and get a good night’s rest. The three-car garage and guest house have also been brought up to date and add to the property’s dignified yet understated brilliance.