Desert retreat
An overview of projects, products and exclusive articles about desert retreat
Project • By Whipple Russell Architects • Private Houses
Serenity
The desert is open space and long views, but also the close-up, detailed perfection of the cactus flower. It is nature’s serene minimalism. This is the setting for our project inside the gated community of The Vintage in Indian Wells, California.
William MacCollum
This project involved deep creative collaboration with the clients, who partnered with architect Marc Whipple and the W^R team on every aspect of the interior design, and personally curated or co-designed each of the many art pieces throughout the house. With a passion for racing and cars, and also for collecting fine wines, the program was going to include dazzling and innovative displays that would be both highly visible and striking artistic statements.
This house... More
Project • By Whipple Russell Architects • Housing
Bighorn
William MacCollum
This project was built adjacent to the Mountain Course in the Bighorn Golf Club, Palm Desert, California, in the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains. The design of the central living space has formed a theatrical proscenium, framing the desertscape scene of mountains, trees, and sky.
William MacCollum
Our client visited the desert frequently growing up, and always wanted a house there. In addition to an indoor/outdoor open feeling, he wanted to see water from every vantage point in the house.
“This is why we not only have the backyard patio that pockets neatly into the fireplace and kitchen, but have created the entryway courtyard, which is really a very large pond. From anywhe... More
Project • By assemblageSTUDIO • Private Houses
TERRA
The idea of horizon is strongly felt on the site through the stark mesa that lies adjacent to the community. Overpowering in scale, the Mesa forms the backdrop of the project.
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Caption
This idea of horizon is grounded in the concept of TERRA. A single-story structure in constant connection to the desert floor, low in profile, the roof edge, demarcated with a steel ribbon, forms a datum line, characteristically reflecting the Mesa’s strong horizontal edge.
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Caption
Light is in constant play in the desert, reflecting off the desert floor...diffused through the leaves of mesquite trees. In TERRA, the roof encompasses the project, extending past the edge of the enclosure, to form a series of prote... More
Project • By Western Architectural Openings • Private Houses
Desert Retreat
This private residence in the Phoenix Area was designed by architect David Dick, and was built by Stone Creek Building Co. Both firms are versatile in the types of homes they create, but when the design calls for a contemporary look they both choose Western Window Systems for their exterior windows and doors.Large window walls, sliding glass doors, and venting windows are used throughout the project to achieve several different objectives. The home is full of natural light, and is complimented by clean, straight lined architecture. More