The site of this project is close to Four Corners in the southwestern U.S., where the high desert of the Colorado Plateau meets the San Juan Mountains. Situated on a sage-covered knoll, the building is oriented towards the southern panorama of views from the La Plata Mountains to Mesa Verde. Building alignment parallels the daylighting and passive solar energy strategies. The form of the house and attached garage are designed to protect the entry area from seasonal storms and to create wind-sheltered outdoor territory.

 

Glass doors and a series of skylights enhance interior daylighting. Exterior materials include cast-in-place concrete, stucco, timbers, and metal in a range of tones drawn from the surrounding desert.