The courtyard and great room are protected from the western sun and winter winds by the more private aspects of the program contained within a main living wing and bedroom wing and constructed of rammed earth walls.

The materials pallet of rammed earth, walnut and weathered steel were inspired by the warm colors and textures found throughout the surrounding desert environment.  2’ thick rammed earth walls, created from a mix of local soils, extend from inside to out and take advantage of the temperature swings of the desert environment. The walls collect heat during the day and dissipate the heat at night when the temperature drops.