Frescoes debut at Siena

SPECIAL TO REAL ESTATE

During artist Jodi McGregor's first visit to the swim pavilion at Siena, she gently ran her fingers along the walls, as those walls were soon to become her canvas. McGregor was to paint frescoes reminiscent of those created in Italy centuries ago.

"Fresco means `fresh' in Italian; literally painting while the plaster is still freshly wet, which makes it a very time-consuming process," McGregor said.

The five 15-foot-high murals depict "windows" with views of sun-drenched landscapes of trees, flowers and distant mountains. Each features a palette of warm colors accented by the illusion of "delicate cracks of aging," according to McGregor.

Sunrise Colony Co. executive Paul Smith said the murals were created for the enjoyment of residents and guests of the age-qualified community in Summerlin.

"These murals are a reminder of Italy, the beauty of its countryside and the warmth of its people," Smith said.

"For centuries, the great homes and public buildings of Europe were embellished with painted murals like these. Today, the owners of the most prestigious homes and businesses around the world are commissioning decorative artists like Jodi McGregor to re-create the classical elegance of this art form."

McGregor's work can also be seen at local hotel-resorts such as Bellagio, Mandalay Bay and Monte Carlo.

The swim pavilion, which is located within the community's health and fitness center, also features two-story arched windows that provide views of the mountains to the west and the community's championship golf course.

Recreational amenities in the new center include a 25-meter indoor pool, spa, saunas, steam rooms, locker rooms and cardiovascular and weight rooms. Outside are four lighted tennis courts and two bocce courts.

Also on-site is a wellness center that is overseen by Summerlin Hospital Medical Center, as well as a full-service salon and spa.

The community offers 14 single-story floor plans, ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 square feet. Homes are priced from the $160,000s to $650,000.

A tree-lined drive leads to the entrance of the guard-gated community, which is also patrolled by security guards 24 hours a day.

Sunrise Colony Co., developer of the 665-acre community, plans to build a 40,000-square-foot community center with arts and crafts facilities, a ballroom and theater, card and billiards rooms, and a computer and business center. There is a full-time activities manager.

To tour the model village, take Sahara Avenue or Interstate 215 to Town Center Drive then head south about 2 1/2 miles.

Models are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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