The Outpost

The site slopes in three directions; it is a desert knoll. Linear forms, assuming they are long enough, will inherently emphasize the shape of the landscape by contrasting a level parapet with the sloping topography. The home is a simple collection of rectangular pods linked by a covered exterior path. Each pod can be turned on or off – living, sleeping or working. This perspective on using energy only when needed is underscored with a 13.7 kW rooftop photovoltaic array. The program included a lap pool. This linear element finds directional purpose in its alignment with the 6 million year old Papago Peak six miles away and the center line of the main entry door! Who doesn’t relate to the old barn, the wood ruin? There is a beautiful honesty in relinquishing architecture to the uncompromising reality of nature. If the intentions are sincere the architecture will only get better.