Client Brief:
The clients desired a secluded, solar-powered home that integrates modern technology with nature, providing a peaceful retreat from city life for the clients and their rescued dogs, as well as an in-law suite. They wanted a minimal design that would enhance indoor-outdoor living, embrace the surrounding desert landscape, and include spaces for music, wellness, and privacy.
Location:
Nestled on the north side of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the home is located in a horse property neighborhood that had been underutilized and neglected. The site’s proximity to the desert landscape inspired a design that would blend seamlessly with the natural environment, promoting biodiversity while providing privacy and serenity. The harsh desert conditions required a sustainable and low-impact approach, utilizing landscaped drainage, native plants, and energy-efficient design.
Design Solution:
We designed "O-asis" as a low-profile, 12.5-foot-tall, solar-powered smart home with an 'O' shaped layout centered around a courtyard, a time-tested desert design strategy. The courtyard brings indirect natural light, cool air, and changing views of desert plants, creating a living art gallery that evolves with the seasons. The courtyard, along with the exterior rusted steel rattlesnake fencing, provide protected areas for the dogs. Pocketing glass doors in the main living area funnel cool breezes and allow for a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, transforming the space into a covered open-air living room in seconds. The exterior of the home is primarily low maintenance white stucco with small recessed wood niches that filter light into the home, with a strong horizontal form that highlights the dramatic shapes of the surrounding desert landscape. The pool extends beyond the ‘O’ shape, drawing residents toward the mountain views to the south, while a built-in fire pit bench provides an intimate gathering space for stargazing or soaking up the sun. Inside, walnut slats with acoustic backing enhance sound quality for the homeowner, a pianist, allowing music to flow through the home without the echo that can be found in some modern homes. The smart home technology controls everything from lights and blinds to speakers, locks, and cameras, offering a seamless and modern living experience. The primary suite takes a minimalist approach, focusing on a spa-like bathroom and a retail-inspired closet. A sky lit vanity island and limestone steam shower create a rejuvenating retreat for the homeowners. A yoga room with cork flooring runs up to the desert floor, offering a tranquil space for wellness, while the in-law suite has its own entrance and outdoor space, allowing for complete autonomy when needed.
Result:
"O-asis" is a national award-winning sustainable retreat that balances smart technology with the beauty of the desert landscape. The home creates an immersive indoor-outdoor living experience, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings and promoting biodiversity. It offers privacy, serenity, and flexibility for the clients, while incorporating spaces for music, wellness, and relaxation.
