When Reds Coach Terry Francona envisioned his dream vacation home, he knew one thing for certain—he wanted to escape the changing seasons of the East Coast.
“Anyone from back East who says they like all four seasons … they’re crazy!” Francona quipped.
Tucson, with its mild winters and vibrant culture, seemed like the perfect choice.
Having fallen in love with the city during his time at the University of Arizona, Francona decided it was the ideal place to create a sanctuary for both the present and his retirement years.
“I wanted a place where I could grow old,” Francona shared. “A place to stretch out.”
The Journey to Building a Dream Home
Francona’s journey to his Tucson home began after he sold his previous house in La Paloma.
This new endeavor, located in the Catalina 10 Estates, was to be a version of that home “on steroids.”
Collaborating with his longtime friend Eddie Leon, general contractor Vince Smedes, and designer Greg Simmons, Francona began turning his vision into reality.
The initial plan was a modest 3,000-square-foot residence, but as Francona refined his requirements, the project grew into a 4,100-square-foot masterpiece.
A Home Built for Comfort and Fun
This modern three-bedroom home embodies everything Terry Francona envisioned in a personal retreat, combining comfort, functionality, and style.
Among its standout features is a SwimEx swim-in-place pool, designed to provide the perfect setup for year-round fitness.
For a passionate golfer like Francona, the inclusion of a golf simulator and putting green creates a personal paradise where he can refine his skills without ever leaving home.
This house also features an exercise room to support his active lifestyle, while an oversized master closet adds a touch of luxury and practicality to his daily routine.
The design seamlessly blends contemporary aesthetics with the rustic charm of the Southwest, making it as visually striking as it is livable.
Tongue-and-groove wood ceilings, intricate stonework, and large wooden beams give the space a warm and inviting feel, while unique elements like a live-edge mesquite-topped bar and faux wall finishes add character and elegance.
Designer Greg Simmons described the home as “a very livable, inviting space that evokes the Southwest,” perfectly capturing Francona’s personality and vision.
This harmonious blend of features ensures the house is not only a functional haven but also a reflection of its owner’s unique style and passions.
The Construction Process: A Labor of Love
Construction began in February 2018, and Francona’s hands-on approach made him a favorite among the contractors.
Despite the project taking longer than anticipated, Francona’s team ensured every detail was perfect. “We didn’t want to cut corners,” Francona said.
Unique finishes, such as faux walls completed by a team of artisans over five weeks, showcase the dedication to craftsmanship.
A Resort-Like Lifestyle
Set against a resort-like backdrop, the home offers Francona everything he needs to relax after a demanding baseball season.
Spacious and thoughtfully designed, it offers ample room for his personal hobbies and family gatherings.
“I can golf and swim. It’s spacious, and I have bedrooms on the other side of the house for my grandkids,” he shared.
“It met my expectations, and my expectations were high.”
Home Is Where the Heart Is
For Francona, the house is more than a retreat—it’s a reflection of his personality and a place to call home.
“When I walk in, I get the same feeling every time — I’m home,” he said.
Whether enjoying the mild desert winters or spending time with family, Francona’s Tucson haven is truly the perfect escape.
