Client Brief:
The clients envisioned a secluded, solar-powered retreat that harmonizes modern technology with the natural desert environment. They sought a minimalist design that fosters indoor-outdoor living, provides dedicated spaces for music and wellness, and offers privacy for both themselves and their rescued dogs. An in-law suite was also essential to accommodate long-term guests.
Location:
Situated on the north side of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, the property resides in a horse property neighborhood that had been underutilized and neglected. The site's proximity to the desert landscape inspired a design that blends seamlessly with the natural environment, promoting biodiversity while ensuring privacy and serenity. The harsh desert conditions necessitated a low-impact approach, utilizing landscaped drainage, native plants, and energy-efficient design.
Design Solution:
O-asis is conceived 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 introduces indirect natural light, cool air, and evolving views of desert flora, creating a living art gallery that changes with the seasons. This central space, along with rusted steel rattlesnake fencing, provides protected areas for the dogs.
Pocketing glass doors in the main living area facilitate seamless indoor-outdoor flow, transforming the space into a covered open-air living room. The exterior features low-maintenance white stucco with recessed wood niches that filter light into the home, while its strong horizontal form accentuates the dramatic desert landscape. A pool extends beyond the 'O' shape, drawing residents toward southern mountain views, complemented by a built-in fire pit bench for intimate gatherings.
Inside, walnut slats with acoustic backing enhance sound quality for the homeowner, a pianist, allowing music to resonate without echo. Smart home technology controls lighting, blinds, speakers, locks, and cameras, providing a seamless living experience. The primary suite emphasizes a spa-like bathroom and a retail-inspired closet, featuring a skylit vanity island and limestone steam shower. A yoga room with cork flooring offers a tranquil wellness space, while the in-law suite, with its own entrance and outdoor area, ensures autonomy for guests.
Result:
"O-asis" stands as a national award-winning retreat that balances smart technology with the beauty of the desert landscape. The home fosters an immersive indoor-outdoor living experience, blending effortlessly with its natural surroundings and encouraging biodiversity. It offers privacy, serenity, and adaptability for the clients, incorporating spaces dedicated to music, wellness, and relaxation.
