Nestled at the base of the Catalina mountains adjacent to a protected peak, the Ventana House is a window on thedesert. The two-story dwelling rises from its mountainside setting like a geological outcropping, arugged exterior formshaped from within by openings that afford panoramic views.
Like a geode, the light-filled and refined interior is a contrast and a surprise. The main living spaces of thehome arelocated above the desert floor, connecting the home's inhabitants to a foreground of saguaro forestand the distanthorizon.
The entry sequence into the home begins at a notched erosion in the exterior massing. Movement isreoriented up asculptural stair that occupies a double height skylighted gallery. The threshold at this momentof vertical ascension isfurther defined by a bridge that passes overhead. Clad in steel perforated panels, thebridge filters light from above and offers glimpses of experiences to come.
Upon arrival at the main living space of the home, the form of the interior volume adjusts again, marked by aslopedceiling that echoes the silhouettes of the distant foothills. Clad in alder panels, the ceiling becomes anorganizingdatum, mapping activities and interactions below: dining, cooking, conversing, and relaxing.Minimally detailedcabinet elements further inform inhabitation, acting as a subtle backdrop to the mainfeature: daily life in a desertoasis.
The initial conception of the home was shaped during an early visit to the native site with the clients. Thepicturesquenatural character of the site was unmistakable. Less obvious was the opportunity for prospect,which revealed itselfupon us climbing a large mesquite tree to gain access to potential views. It was from thisperch that the sequenceand organization of the home became clear. The heart of the home as realized – thekitchen - occupies the prospectof the mesquite that we'd climbed together.
The carved exterior form of the home creates deep shadows, protecting the inhabitants from the harsh desertsun.Large sliding doors connect the interior of the home to shaded terraces, facilitating cross ventilation thatseasonallyminimizes the need for mechanical cooling, enhancing the connection with the naturalenvironment. Material textureand attention to detail complement the bold formal and spatial resolution. Onthe exterior of the home, combedcement plaster exhibits a trace of the construction process and the hands that contributed to the realization of thedesign.
Material texture and attention to detail complement the bold formal and spatial resolution.On the exterior of the home, combed cement plaster exhibits a trace of the construction process and the hands that contributed to the realization of the design.
The interior of the home reveals itself as a series of discretely carved volumes proportioned in relationship toexteriorapertures. The spatial dialog between interior volume and exterior form unfolds in a cinematicmontage thatcomplements the picture-window views. The shared experience of the main living space iscomplemented by privatemoments for the home's inhabitants, with bedrooms and studies tucked away, eachwith their own unique aspectratio, each inviting a personal narrative.
The experiential effect of Ventana House combines picturesque vignettes with cinematic movement, rooted ina directresponse and connection to the desert landscape and environment.
Material Used:
1. Facade cladding- Combed cement plaster
2. Doors- Arcadia Inc
3. Windows- Western Window Systems
4. Bathroom sinks, tub, Shower bases Wetstyle
5. Interior furniture- Design Within Reach
6. Plumbing Faucets and fittings Crosswater London
7. Kitchen Appliances -Miele