Clients’ vision was to capture the beauty of the desert, create a feeling of one-with-nature, while incorporating an inviting Guest Wing for friends and family.

Building site is within a desert canyon, boulder strewn, and rising in each direction. Unimaginable vistas, but presenting a challenge: water influx. Underground rock-filled channels were designed to move continuous underground water away from the foundation. Rugged desert textures and colors are captured on exterior surfaces. Natural stone tile is applied to walkways and combined with sand-finished stucco for the walls. Metal-clad fascia, roof support structures and fireplace flues are finished with earth-tone powder-coat or acid washes.

Southern exposure dictates extensive use of overhangs, segmented and cantilevered to enhance appearance and protect against harsh desert conditions. These structures, as well as interior ceilings, rise from front to back, expanding the vistas. Cantilevers, supported by thin “chopstick” columns and dual-purpose fireplace flues, allow unobstructed views while significantly reducing sun loading.

Expansive Great Room glass walls bring in natural light, while clearstory windows combine with suspended ceiling elements to make the stained, tongue-in-groove paneled ceiling appear to be floating. Further enhancing the outdoor-indoor feeling is a floor-to-ceiling glass entry wall surrounding an outdoor planter containing specimen desert flora. Dynamic ceiling features delineate the functional areas and combine with clearstory windows to make the ceiling appear to float. Gourmet kitchen is an open continuation of the free-flowing living and entertaining space.

Guest wing with its suspended patio and curved floating stairs to the observations deck and 360 degree views of the canyon and world class golf course. To maintain a close-in desert feeling, natural areas have been provided for three existing Saguaros, and the spa is built into natural rock outcroppings.