The philosophy behind this midcentury modern home of a valley architect was simple: in the desert, less is more. Discovering that the brick wall ruins of a previous residence were constructed of reclaimed handmade sand mold bricks from the early 1900’s was truly the catalyst of embracing the natural design of this project. Just as the 2,150 square foot home doesn’t impose grandeur on this hidden Carefree lot, the landscape architecture truly allows the wild Arizona desert to shine in its natural glory.

A large cross-cutting wash that runs the length of the property inspired many landscape design decisions including allowing the desert to truly be wild. No walls or fencing were built around the property, there is no barrier between the home and the desert. Additions of interesting species including agave, cactus and yucca integrate seamlessly into the natural desert.

The rear of the home, nearly entirely floor to ceiling glass walls, offers a view of the core garden area. The homeowner accentuates the vertical drop of the wash with a negative edge sustainable synthetic turf lawn. The synthetic turf offers a soft-landing pad to dine and entertain with the western facing, natural desert wash below.

Additional design choices of raw steel planters with symmetrical cluster planting surrounded by cobble thoughtfully harvested from the property all embrace the sustainability of the desert.

By truly embracing the organic planting of the Arizona desert, this home offers exquisitely thoughtful landscape architecture without a single irrigation dripline.

Project Details:
Landscape Architect: Greey|Pickett
Architect: Clint Miller Architect
Landscape Contractor: Premier Environments
Photography: Steve Thompson
Publications: Phoenix Home & Garden, June 2018
Awards: AZ ASLA Residential Design Award of Honor