The very words evoke thoughts of city lights, bustling eateries, quaint cafes and plenty of museums, galleries and theaters – all within walking distance. In Arizona, urban living is a phenomenon that's only really come into its own during the last few years, but once home buyers were introduced to upscale, amenity-rich communities, the demand for cosmopolitan high-rise housing has grown by leaps and bounds.

Fortunately for urban-aficionados, the Phoenix and Scottsdale metropolitan areas each boast a stunning array of homes sure to please even the most discriminating city-dweller. For example, downtown Phoenix shows off with a number of soaring lofts nestled inside Art Deco buildings that were previously home to marble-lobbied banks or other golden-age venues. Many of these buildings are flattered by a retro-modern ambience featuring a fabulous fusion of aged brick and exposed pipes and concrete beautifully interwoven with the swank sophistication of gorgeous granites, rich hardwoods, contemporary conveniences and fine decorating touches. Often, there are tall casement windows with wonderful views of the city scene below.

Urban living in the elegant environs of Scottsdale has a bit of a different appeal. Often centered around a 24-hour valet and on-site concierge lifestyle, Scottsdale offers a wealth of sleek and chic urban living options. Featuring an energetic lifestyle close to the city's vibrant nightlife and daytime hustle and bustle, many of these high-rise havens boast walls of glass that showcase the valley's magnificent mountains and glittering city lights. Some are pet-friendly and some even have expansive gardens and hanging terraces, creating warm and inviting outdoor gathering places. Frequently, these fashionable homes are clustered around uptown shopping and dining districts, ensuring that many of life's tony pleasures are but a simple stroll from your front door.

Old Town Scottsdale is an area with many streets, stores, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and western art galleries evoking the old cowboy era. Scottsdale's main cultural district is also in this area, which includes the high-end Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, one of the twenty largest malls in the United States. The district has currently seen a revival, with new condominiums, upscale lofts and chic hotels under construction.