11 Forgotten Arizona Home Features That Are Making A Comeback

Ready to dust off those desert delights and bring some sizzle back into your home? Arizona’s forgotten home features are making a blazing comeback, and trust me, you don’t want to be left out in the sun on this one!

These aren’t just a blast from the past, they’re the hottest ticket in town for giving your space some serious Southwest swagger.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a true sonoran or just a weekend wanderer, these features will have you saying “Hot diggity dog!” faster than you can spot a roadrunner.

1. Sleeping Porches For Desert Nights

Remember those magical summer nights when the house felt like an oven but the porch was heavenly cool? Sleeping porches were essential before air conditioning conquered the desert.

Arizona families would drag mattresses outside to catch evening breezes. Nowadays, homeowners are reimagining these spaces with daybeds, outdoor-friendly fabrics, and even retractable screens.

My clients adore these porches for afternoon naps and stargazing. Though they’re no longer necessity-driven, they’ve become luxury relaxation zones where desert living truly shines.

2. Ramadas For Outdoor Living

Ramadas might sound fancy, but they’re simply Arizona’s answer to the pergola, with serious desert cred. These open-sided roofed structures were workhorses on ranches before becoming backyard staples.

Unlike flimsy patio covers, traditional ramadas feature substantial posts, often salvaged from desert trees, supporting a roof of ocotillo stems or saguaro ribs.

However, today’s versions blend rustic charm with modern comforts like outdoor kitchens and ceiling fans. Nothing beats gathering under a ramada when summer temperatures soar. It’s like having an outdoor living room that actually works in our climate!

3. Thick Adobe Walls For Natural Insulation

Whoever invented air conditioning probably never experienced the magic of adobe walls! These thick earthen barriers kept desert homes naturally cool long before HVAC systems existed.

Made from sun-dried mud bricks, adobe walls absorb daytime heat and release it slowly overnight. It’s like nature’s own temperature control.

Though genuine adobe construction became rare in the mid-century building boom, modern architects are bringing back these thermal mass principles.

My clients who’ve invested in adobe-inspired construction report up to 30% savings on cooling costs. Plus, those deep windowsills create dramatic shadows and perfect spots for southwestern art displays.

4. Zaguan Hallways For Natural Ventilation

The zaguan might be my absolute favorite resurrection from Arizona’s architectural past. These central hallways running from front to back created natural wind tunnels before electric fans existed.

Spanish and Mexican settlers designed these passages to capture and accelerate breezes through the home. Today’s homeowners are rediscovering how these straight-shot hallways can slash cooling costs when evening temperatures drop.

Though modern zaguans often feature artistic touches like decorative tile floors or wrought iron details, their primary appeal remains functional. Once again, they prove to us that our ancestors knew a thing or two about desert living!

5. Rainwater Harvesting Cisterns

Long before municipal water systems reached every corner of Arizona, homesteaders captured precious rainfall in underground cisterns. These water-collection systems weren’t fancy, just practical solutions for desert living.

Now, with water conservation concerns mounting, these historic features are making a stylish comeback. Modern versions range from sleek contemporary tanks to charming vintage-inspired barrels that double as garden focal points.

Smart homeowners connect them to roof gutters and use the collected water for native landscaping. One client’s system captures enough monsoon rain to water her garden year-round, talk about desert-smart living!

6. Kitchen Coolboxes Before Refrigeration

Before Frigidaire changed everything, Arizona homes featured ingenious built-in coolboxes, the desert’s answer to keeping food fresh. These cabinet-like structures used evaporative cooling principles with screened vents and sometimes wet cloths.

Though we won’t abandon our refrigerators anytime soon, modern homes are incorporating updated versions as charming pantry alternatives. My favorite designs feature vintage hardware, wire mesh panels, and clever integration with kitchen cabinetry.

Beyond their nostalgic appeal, these coolboxes work surprisingly well for storing root vegetables and bread. Plus, they’re fantastic conversation starters when guests visit!

7. Vigas And Latillas Ceilings

Walking into a room with exposed vigas and latillas overhead instantly transports you to old Arizona. These round wooden ceiling beams (vigas) with smaller perpendicular sticks (latillas) defined Southwestern architecture for centuries.

Modernism nearly erased this traditional ceiling treatment with its preference for flat, white surfaces. Thankfully, today’s homeowners recognize both the structural beauty and regional authenticity these elements bring.

My restoration projects often uncover original vigas hidden above dropped ceilings, like finding architectural treasure!

When authentic materials aren’t available, clever artisans create convincing replicas. They deliver all the character without the structural requirements.

8. Built-In Banco Seating

Bancos might be the coziest comeback on our list! These built-in adobe or plastered bench seats typically curve around fireplaces or outdoor walls, creating natural gathering spots.

Bancos fell out of favor when mass-produced seating became affordable. Today’s versions come upholstered with Southwestern textiles and topped with comfy cushions.

Bancos are the real MVPs when it comes to maximizing space and bringing that authentic Arizona charm. Whether indoors or outdoors, these curved seating areas turn any corner into the ultimate hangout spot. It’s like the furniture version of a warm desert welcome!

9. Canales For Stylish Water Drainage

Who knew rain gutters could be architectural features? Canales, those projecting wooden or metal spouts that direct water away from flat roofs, were essential in traditional adobe construction.

While modern homes typically hide drainage systems, canales celebrate this necessity with sculptural flair. Carved wooden versions or copper spouts develop gorgeous patinas that enhance a home’s character.

Here’s a fun fact: in some old Southwestern towns, canales were so important that neighbors would gather during rare rainstorms just to watch the water dance off these artistic spouts. It was like a true desert water show!

10. Courtyard Entryways With Shade

Stepping into a traditional Arizona courtyard feels like discovering a secret garden. These enclosed entryways once served as natural temperature regulators and gathering spots for family meals.

Where modern homes opted for grand foyers, courtyards offer intimate transitions from public to private space. My favorite courtyard renovations incorporate native plants, water features, and strategic shade elements.

Homeowners love how these spaces capture evening coolness while blocking harsh afternoon sun. On top of that, they’re perfect for morning coffee without nosy neighbors watching.

11. Nicho Wall Alcoves For Display

Nichos are small recessed shelves that showcase treasured objects. These architectural gems served both decorative and spiritual purposes in early Arizona homes. They often displayed religious figures or family heirlooms.

Though drywall construction nearly eliminated them, today’s homeowners are carving out these charming alcoves again. Modern interpretations range from simple squared openings to elaborate arched recesses with decorative tile surrounds.

My favorite nicho projects incorporate subtle lighting to highlight displayed objects. They’re perfect for breaking up long hallways or adding character to bathrooms and entryways. It’s all about these small touches that feel authentically Arizonan.