Next time you look at an interesting architectural feature on an area home, you might be surprised to learn it was created in Fountain Hills.

The community is home to Architectural Design Elements, Inc., a firm specializing in the custom use of cantera stone, forged iron and crafted wood. Alan Ahearn, president of the business, has been in business four years. He started in Cave Creek then moved the firm to 16508 E. Laser Drive in May 2006.

“I love this town,” Ahearn said. “I knew the first time I saw the community that I wanted to live here and to have my business here.”

Ahearn said the company is “under the radar” in the community at the moment, but he is looking forward to becoming more visible as time goes on.

“We have been doing a lot of work in Paradise Valley, Desert Mountain, Silverleaf,” he said. “We are beginning to do some projects in FireRock.”

Ahearn is an architect and worked for eight years designing modern buildings. But the work he does now is what makes him happy.

“I have always had a passion for classical architecture,” he said. “Working with these elements enables me to specialize in these very intricate projects.”

The firm works with the cantera stone to create fireplaces, columns, fountains, flooring, accents and more.

“We can create these phenomenal entrances to a home using cantera stone,” Ahearn said. “A certain look is obtained by using these pieces.”

Ahearn said he likes the feel and the look of cantera stone.

“I think it is warmer than travertines and marbles, but it still has the same level of luxury,” he said.

Ahearn said Arizona hasn’t always had the historic, classical looks in homes being built today.

“Arizona, and especially this area, has a need for a classical look,” Ahearn said. “There is a sense of security in history.”

Ahearn agreed, saying, “Fashion goes in and out, but classical remains. It is timeless.”

Cantera stone is petrified volcanic ash, similar to sandstone. There are 12 main colors, but more than 30 variations of those primary hues. Ahearn said the cantera products are designed here then hand-carved in Mexico by artisans.

“Cantera stone gives a building an old-world feel,” he said. “Mexico is a natural location for this work to be done.”

The use of cantera stone originated in Europe and was brought to Mexico by Europeans. It is commonly used in Mexican architecture, as well as in works in Europe and other parts of the world.

The forged iron designed by ADE is used to create banisters, window treatments, fences and as fireplace covers. Ahearn said the use of forged iron enhances architectural styles.

Crafted wood is used by ADE in doors, furniture and cabinetry. Ahearn said the main types of wood they use is mesquite, alder and Spanish oak.

“These are the ones we like to work with,” he said. “Using these types of wood result in the look we want.”

Ahearn said a showroom ultimately will be created to show clients some of their work. 

“We are looking forward to being a bigger part of Fountain Hills,” Ahearn said. “

Ahearn works with one other designer. Ahearn said they are in the process of hiring a third. For additional information, call (480) 488-6593, or visit www.usa-ade.com.

Carved cantera stone exemplifies an old world look in building today. Architectural Design Elements, Inc., of Fountain Hills specializes in the custom use of cantera stone, forged iron and crafted wood.