Notched into a steep hillside in the Tucson Mountains, this house utilizes simple rectangular forms arranged along a curve. With simple contrasts of rough to smooth, curved to straight, hard to soft, and heavy to light, the design creates a sequence of spaces that encourage multiple interpretations of its desert environs.

Overlaying a strict geometry on top of the rugged and uneven terrain, this residence provides a clear counterpoint of man-made to nature in plan while stepping with the site in section. Using polished concrete floors, integral color plaster, rusted metal and split-face block, the design creates an ensemble of desert inspired textures and hues that embrace its surroundings.

Oriented toward southern and western canyon views, the design is organized along a 100′ curved, clerestory lit gallery that runs through the center of the house. All rooms connect to this gallery providing for a daily exhibit of art and desert view alike.

This residence was featured in the January 2000 issue of Metropolitan Home and was the setting for a country music video by Gary Allan.

location
Tucson, Arizona

client/owner
Blair + Catherine Frederich

area
3,700 sf

completion date
1999