The “High Desert Retreat” sits on a rocky desert plateau near Palm Desert, surrounded by boulders and with a view of Coachella Valley and the San Jacinto Mountain Range. The materials chosen for the home are meant to stand out in the desert's light colors.

The design process involved close observation of the site, considering the micro-climate, temperature swings, existing trees, and boulders. The goal was to create a home that frames the ever-changing desert views. The structure contrasts with the organic forms of the desert, staying low to the ground to minimize its impact. The siding, made from acetylated, burnt, wire-brushed, stained, and sealed pine wood, has a textured finish that resists bugs and rot, ideal for the area's temperature changes.

Inside, the house is a mix of concrete, wood, stone, and steel, each used where it works best for durability and warmth. The design features a floating roof, wooden volumes, and concrete anchor walls. The owners wanted a simple retreat in the desert that preserved the natural environment, including not removing any Pinyon trees.

The entry sequence is guided by two concrete walls that frame the entry, dining room, and a stunning view to the East and Coachella Valley. The chosen materials for the home intentionally contrast with the desert's light palette. The blackened wood siding and the interior materials are selected for their durability in the desert climate, providing a warm and cozy atmosphere for the occupants.

The floating roof has multiple functions, providing shade and featuring a wooden lattice to let some sunlight through. A carved-out section frames the sky and illuminates the pool area. Below the roof, seven rectilinear volumes house the home's functions. These volumes split apart to connect with the landscape, creating a void in the center used as the entry and dining room.

The “High Desert Retreat” stands as a testament to thoughtful and purposeful design, seamlessly blending with the rugged beauty of its rocky plateau surroundings. The careful selection of materials, from the acetylated pine wood siding to the concrete, stone, and steel elements inside, reflects a commitment to both aesthetic appeal and practical durability in the challenging desert environment. The architects' meticulous consideration of the site's micro-climate, temperature fluctuations, and existing flora resulted in a structure that not only frames the ever-changing desert views but also harmonizes with the natural landscape. The intentional use of dark wood siding and robust interior materials serves to create a warm and inviting oasis amidst the desert's light palette. This house stands as a model of sustainable architecture, respecting the environment by preserving Pinyon trees and minimizing its impact on the land, while providing its occupants with a unique and cozy retreat in the heart of the desert.

Project: High Desert Retreat
Architects: Aidlin Darling Design [ Ссылка ]
Area: 3700 ft²
Year: 2019
Photographs:
Adam Rouse [ Ссылка ]
Joe Fletcher [ Ссылка ]
Aidlin Darling Design [ Ссылка ]
Manufacturers: Dornbracht, Lutron, Duravit, Kebony, Miele, Subzero/Wolf, Agape, B-K Lighting, Benjamin Moore, Blanco Culina, Breville, Carerra Marble, Carlisle Syntec System, Customkreteworks, Diamond Spas, Earthcore Industries, Emtek, Henrybuilt, JEE-O, Kohler, +11
Lead Architects: Joshua Aidlin, Adam Rouse
Location: Palm Desert, California, United States

свернуть