It’s not unknown that Phoenix houses a variety of historic neighborhoods with distinct architectural styles as well as all the charm and appeal showcased in pristine yards, story-book appeal, and coveted real estate. But for many residents and lovers of historic neighborhoods, one neighborhood has inched its way to the top of the list: FQ Story.

With a storied past, detailed preservation efforts, and a superb location, the stately but cool vibe of this neighborhood can only be experienced in person. Located between McDowell Road and Roosevelt Street with Downtown Phoenix just a stone’s throw away, FQ Story has all of the modern big city amenities juxtaposed against the neighborhood’s provincial aesthetics. Not only is this community on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, but FQ Story was also chosen as the “Best Neighborhood of 2017” by Phoenix New Times.

Here are four reasons why FQ Story is one of the most cherished historic neighborhoods in Phoenix. 

FQ Story Neighborhood photo courtesy of Kabugenyo 

History

When a Boston wool merchant moved to California for health reasons, little did he know that he would soon become responsible for much of the agricultural and economic development of Phoenix. Francis Quarles (FQ), who is also known for founding the national advertising campaign that made the Sunkist Orange famous, purchased the area that now has his namesake in the 1880s.

The neighborhood in its original form was laid out with narrow deep lots with houses clustered by the streetcar line. By 1920, the development transformed into the neighborhood we know today, and began to take shape as a streetcar suburb. Development continued until the effects of the Great Depression hit Phoenix, but by then, 75 percent of the neighborhood had already been built out. 

Homes & Architectural Styles

Different styles of architecture can be found throughout the the 600 homes within the neighborhood. The Bungalow style pervades the eastern section of the neighborhood, which was constructed in the early 1920s. By the mid 1920s, Period Revival styles became the rage because they showed more detailed ornamentation. Spanish Colonial Revival and Tudor Revival styles were among the most popular, with Tudor style homes being the most expensive to build during that time period.

With the onset of Great Depression, the residences began to change into Ranch style homes featureing a more relaxed design with a focus on family living within an “L” shaped or “U” shaped layout, according to Antique Home.

FQ Story’s architectural development between the 1920s and 1930s reveals the true indication of the neighborhood’s success through adversity. Between the shifting home designs before and after the Great Depression and the minimum deed restrictions imposed upon homebuilders, FQ Story has some of the most eclectic architectural styles within the entire city. 

Because these historic homes are sought-after, homebuyers end up paying more than other comparable areas. Expect to find small bungalows ranging from 708 square feet to larger estates offering over 4,000 square feet. Prices range between the low $200s to high $400s with recent closing prices soaring up to the mid $900s. The median sale price for FQ Story is in the mid $300s.

Community Involvement

Today, FQ Story thrives on community connections, showcasing all the neighborhood has to offer. The FQ Story Home Tour, which was chosen as one of the Best Home Tours in the Metro by Phoenix New Times, allows visitors a chance to view firsthand the unique architectural styles from about 12 diferent historic homes each year. Another way the community embraces its residents is through its own neighborhood book club, which has grown to include neighboring districts as well.

Location

Now that we’ve covered the history and characteristics of the neighborhood, what makes the neighborhood a high priority for homebuyers is the prime location. Being surrounded by historic neighborhoods like Roosevelt, the artistic hub of Downtown, and the well-established community of Palmcroft allows residents and prospective homebuyers to enjoy a tranquil, close-knit environment without having to sacrifice access to numerous amenities and attractions.

FQ Story is near Chase Field Ball Park and Symphony Hall, and it’s within close proximity to plenty of cultural events, shopping and dining options, art galleries, and light rail transit for quick trips to Tempe and Mesa. It’s easy to see why so many people cherish this historic neighborhood that has remained a distinguished gem in Phoenix.