The Estate is Set to Auction Live at The Arizona Biltmore in Cooperation with Thalia Kyriakis of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
An exceptional Tucson estate in the prestigious Catalina Foothills, known as ‘Eleven Arches’ or ‘Grace Mansion’, will be auctioned next month via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions. Originally designed by the renowned architect Josias Joesler for Louise N. Grace, an heiress of the shipping magnate W.R. Grace, the historic home is a rare blend of architectural revival styles, incorporating European influences with a distinct Spanish Colonial aesthetic. Listed for US$6.5 million in cooperation with Thalia Kyriakis of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, starting bids are expected between US$3 million and US$5 million.
Bidding is set to open 14 January, culminating live on 23 January at the ‘Jewel of the Desert,’ the Arizona Biltmore, during the premier sale of Arizona Car Week as part of RM Sotheby’s 27th annual car auction. A historic collaboration between the global leading auction houses for rare and collectible cars and luxury real estate, the sale will mark the first time ever that real estate will auction alongside rare and collectible automobiles.
Set within the secure, gated community of the Estates at Eleven Arches, the privately gated Josias Joesler-designed estate is a true architectural marvel. Eleven Arches is a small private community with only 10 homes and two additional lots. Originally part of a larger 150-acre estate, the property spans over 15,500 square feet on a nearly four-and-half acre lot, featuring light-filled interiors, a double-height foyer, tile floors, and beamed ceilings throughout. True to its name, the property is defined by its arched doorways, which showcase Joesler’s architectural vision—a style known for exposed hand-hewn beams, hand plastering, and breezeways that harmonize with Tucson’s natural landscape. Constructed of mud adobe, the exterior walls are 24 inches thick, while the interior walls measure 14 inches, blending historic charm with Joesler’s signature Southwestern style.
In 2005, the current owners embarked on a meticulous eight-year renovation of the estate, updating systems, re-roofing portions of the residence, and installing a 600-foot steel-encased private well. The renovation preserved the property’s historic integrity while adding modern amenities, including an extended eat-in kitchen, a spacious principal bedroom suite with dual bathrooms and an office, and a wraparound patio with east-facing views over the mountains.
Additional highlights include three versatile guest casitas for exceptional accommodation, a resort-style pool, an art collector-worthy gallery system, space for grand-scale entertaining and thoughtfully preserved architectural details, honoring the property’s earned position on the National Register of Historic Places.
“This estate offers the opportunity to own a piece of Tucson’s architectural heritage, surrounded by luxurious amenities and the unmatched privacy of the Catalina Foothills,” said Kyriakis. “Josias Joesler’s designs are iconic in this area, and Eleven Arches estate is his residential masterpiece. It’s not just a home—it’s a sanctuary. Given its historic pedigree, it is fitting that the property will see its world-wide auction debut at such a historic event with Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions.”
Tucson itself offers a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant community atmosphere, with stunning desert landscapes, including the majestic Catalina Mountains and four other mountain ranges, and easy access to both the Tucson International Airport, just a 25-minute drive away, and Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, a mere two-hour drive. The city notably boasts a rich cultural scene, featuring numerous galleries and museums, including the renowned Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Enjoy elevated living with access to world-class golf courses, luxury shopping, and acclaimed restaurants just a moment away.
5201 North Hacienda Del Sol Road is available for private showings by appointment, in person or virtually.