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Photo © Chris Loomis

Burton Barr Central Library / Photo © Bill Timmerman (top): The Parlor / Photo © Jenna M. McKnight (bottom)

Lanning is the director of Local First Arizona, a non-profit organization supporting locally owned businesses.

Best New Architecture
Burton Barr Central Library
“This downtown Phoenix public library is my favorite! Will Bruder, to me, defines our city's best architecture. The building is elegant and powerful, and somehow urges the viewer to go inside.”

Best Historic Architecture
1930s-era Post Office on Central Avenue and Van Buren Street
“The downtown post office makes me smile! Every single post box has such detail and the doors and counters have all been preserved. It’s great building to cherish.”

Best “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Architecture
Church on 2nd Avenue and Monroe Street
“Our attorney general, Terry Goddard, worked to save an old church on 2nd Avenue and Monroe that was burned years ago. The structure is haunting and beautiful as it sits empty, waiting for the next chapter.”

Best Museum
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
“A three-way tie between the Phoenix Art Museum, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, and the ASU Art Museum. All three are must-see museums with thoughtfully curated traveling shows and diverse collections. Architecturally, SMoCA wins!”

Best Restaurant
The Parlor
“I love all local restaurants, but the pick of the week is Parlor, a new pizzeria on Camelback that made use of recycled building materials for most of its interior (tables, wine racks, etc) and welcomes you with a fresh herb garden at the entrance.”

Best Shopping
Uptown Neighborhood
“Shops like Frances Boutique, Haus Modern Living, Red Hot Robot, and Smeeks all offer unique gifts and funky stuff. The neighborhood also boasts some of the valley's best eateries, Postino Wine Cafe, Maizie's Cafe, and the brand new St Francis Place.”