Willo Neighborhood Shines During Home Tour: View these historic, renovated Phoenix homes February 14.
Jan 30, 2016 12:43PM ● By By Martin Miron
The annual Willo Home Tour will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., February 14, showcasing one of downtown Phoenix’s oldest and most beautiful historic neighborhoods. The Willo Historic District lies west of Central Avenue between Thomas and McDowell Roads from 1st Avenue to 7th Avenue. Trolley cars will be running up and down Willo streets carrying tour guests to stops near the 12 featured homes—or enjoy the beautiful Sunday weather and walk from house-to-house.
A street fair located at Holly and Monte Vista will offer more than 60 vendors selling handcrafted goods, gifts, jewelry, antiques, local artwork and a variety of food options. There will also be live musical entertainment throughout the day.
This unique neighborhood tour represents a variety of styles, including Tudor, Spanish, Colonial and Bungalow, dating from the 1920s through the 1940s. This area showcases a type of green living where residents are reusing and revitalizing these old structures while enhancing the overall charm of living in downtown Phoenix.
One 1927 Tudor Revival specimen, the F.H. Pilcher house (see above photo), is brick and stucco with a gable roof of asphalt shingles and exposed rafters under the eaves. The front entry is recessed with an arch and brick piers. This classic abode has been completely updated, featuring a blend of modern and retro design that pays homage to the original historic elements such as refinished solid hardwood floors throughout, coved ceilings, wood windows, wood doors and vintage hardware. French doors leading to the side frame the fireplace in the living room. The kitchen is open, light and airy, with white cabinets, granite countertops and charming vintage-looking flooring. The remodeled guest house includes a bath and kitchenette.
Tickets can be purchased for $20 the day of the event at the neighborhood park at 3rd Ave. and Holly. Advance tickets are $18 online prior to Feb. 13. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit WilloHistoricDistrict.com.
