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Photo courtesy Merz Project

Orpheum Theater / Photo courtesy Greg O’Beirne / Wikipedia (top); The Sanctuary Resort / Photo courtesy Sanctuary Resort (bottom)

Busick is a director at Merz Project, an architecture, interiors, and urban design practice in Phoenix.

Best Historic Architecture
Orpheum Theater
“The 1927 Orpheum Theater in Downtown Phoenix was reopened in 1997 after falling into disrepair and now is a showcase for arts and entertainment in the Valley.”

Memorial Hall at Steele Indian School Park
“The 1922 Memorial Hall at Steele Indian School Park was recently restored and is one of the most noteworthy buildings in Phoenix history.”

Best New Architecture
Civic Space Park
“The new Civic Space Park, anchored by a 100-foot-wide floating sculpture by artist Janet Echelman and the A.E. England Building, showcases sustainable technology with innovative shading canopies of integrated photovoltaic panels.”

Prayer Pavilion of Light
“This prayer chapel by DeBartolo Architects features a translucent double skin, creating the effect of a floating lantern set on a plinth of concrete walls.”

Favorite “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Architecture
Deer Valley Rock Art Center
“Will Bruder’s Rock Art Center merges the valley’s ancient history with its future. A beautifully choreographed sequence moves the visitor through a dynamic series of light and dark spaces allowing one to transition from the larger suburban context to the ancient history inscribed on the surrounding hills.”

Best Galleries
Grand Avenue and Roosevelt Row Area
“A burgeoning art scene has sprung up downtown. On Grand Avenue check out the Pie Factory, The Trunk Space, and The Chocolate Factory. On Roosevelt, Monorchid, Eye Lounge, and Modified always have cutting-edge shows of emerging and established artists.”

Best Restaurants
Mariscos Playa Hermosa
“In the Garfield area of Phoenix, Mariscos Playa Hermosa is a real gem in the rough for delicious Mexican-style seafood. Try the crab enchiladas or shrimp dishes.”

Best Hotel
Sanctuary Resort
“The intimate Sanctuary Resort on Camelback Mountain weaves a 1950’s tennis ranch, featuring homes, casitas, and structures by the late architect George Christensen, with contemporary elements by noted valley architects.”