Located strategically near the Town Lake in Tempe, Arizona, NOVEL Rio is an amenity-rich, five-story community developed by Crescent Communities.  Located within walking distance to retail, dining and entertainment on Mill Avenue, and a short bike ride to Arizona State University, the development features a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom residences. The architecture and grounds are inspired by luxury desert resorts, drawing inspiration from mid-century modern design elements which carry throughout the clean lines and bold finishes of amenities and gathering spaces and into the 209 units. The project combines both “podium” and “wrap” configurations, offering three amenity courtyards and a 385 car, 5-story precast concrete parking structure.

Spanning 3.2 acres, the project fronts two streets with a grand entry off Rio Salado Parkway and a residential street frontage off 1st Street to the south, featuring walk-up live/work units and transitioning into the lower density neighborhood setting. The exterior aesthetic complements the mid-century modern interiors with clean, simple massing volumes, accentuated with wood-look fiber cement insets. This simple design statement is carefully placed throughout the courtyards to provide a moment of interest while tenants enjoy grilling, playing lawn games, watching an outdoor movie or relaxing by the heated and chilled swimming pool.

The amenities highlight the year-round Arizona climate through indoor-outdoor living. Both the main lounge and the fitness center feature bi-folding exterior walls and the Arizona game room allows residents to live outside while protected from the sun.

A sunken living space wraps the fireplace, flanked by interior frameless glass and decorative breeze block walls which keep the spaces open and connected. The rooftop deck affords expansive views out to Papago Park, Camelback Mountain and the surrounding mountain ranges while the bike storage and gear rental are constant reminders to enjoy the nearby natural amenities. An on-site dog run and spa cater to residents’ furry companions. Visible throughout the project, murals by artist Osiris Rain introduce pops of color and highlight the fun-funky, outdoor urban lifestyle.