scottsdale residence

PROJECT
On a desert site in Scottsdale Arizona, Marmol Radziner is acting as the architect and landscape designer for this winter retreat for a couple from the Midwest.

SITE
The arid site has spectacular views. To the north is Pinnacle Peak and to the south is the McDowell Mountain Range. In springtime, two natural washes flood the rocky terrain, informing both the form and location of the home.

DESIGN
The residence has been designed to heighten awareness of the desert landscape. Entry is via a pedestrian path that passes through a stone wall separating the garage from the entrance pavilion. Winding past native desert succulents, the path ushers the visitor into the main living area. Here, the visitor experiences a view of Pinnacle Peak to the north and the McDowell Mountains to the south. Like a “modern pavilion,” horizontal roof planes and raised decks allow the living room to expand into the landscape. Just beyond the kitchen is an exterior fireplace and grill. The indoor dining room is adjacent to an outdoor dining room while the living room faces the pool.

Whereas the main living area is elevated, the master bedroom, and guest suite nestle into the earth. Concrete block retaining walls anchor these spaces in the landscape and form sunken courtyards. From the living room, access to the guest suite is via a glass bridge that traverses one of the site’s two natural washes. East of the kitchen are two offices stacked one on top of the other.

Like the washed out desert hues, the materials palette is subdued. Exterior materials include local stone, aluminum windows and doors and western red cedar. Generous roof overhangs, a concrete floor and cross ventilation provide passive cooling throughout. Photovoltaic panels generate electricity to run the pool equipment while solar thermal panels heat the water. The master bedroom roof has been engineered to support a garden in future.