Photo by Corey Gaffer
The desert has a certain mystique. Charles Stinson An expert in bottling and turning it into something tangible. Its vast landscapes, complex color schemes and unique climatic conditions have been a source of inspiration for notable architects. Arizona’s high desert. They dreamed of a vacation that complemented their surroundings and seamlessly integrated indoor and outdoor living. So Stinson went to the rocky area himself to scout out the place. “rock, cactusmountains – all offer different ways of relating to nature,” he shares.
Even in an environment that contrasts with your home country Minnesota, Stinson’s signature mark is evident. Strong horizontal surfaces, long expanses of glass to bring the landscape to life, and residences positioned in the landscape as if they were there all along.A team that includes his Chuck Thiss project manager and an Arizona-based builder James Manship, they were determined from the outset that they wanted the structure to nestle into the mountain site. In doing so, the house is a study of future refuges, promising safety and rest to its occupants while producing endless views of terrain and watercolor skies.
The house, like the mountain, makes a strong and organic first impression. The linear exterior is Oklahoma Earthy sand tones complement the desert environment. It is covered with a flat anodized aluminum roof with several solar panels to maximize energy efficiency. Balancing the rawness of stone and aluminum is a custom water feature housed in a stainless steel plate. As you approach the front door, the water flows over the edge into the illuminated valley, creating a dreamy glow.
A closer look at this feature reveals a tile base with fiber optic lighting and a “starry sky” painted inside. It’s a subtle but deliberate design detail that the team achieved through thoughtful research. “As Charles puts it, ‘the best ideas win,'” notes the collaborative nature of the project. “The water feature was part of the original drawing. Once we started working on it, the whole team figured out how best to make it happen.” Plus, you can enjoy indoors or out thanks to the glass corridor.
The attention to detail is reflected in the elegant tones, sophisticated architecture and seamless integration of interior and exterior. The team utilized the same Heartland limestone for a thoughtful touch in the living area. The interior consists of vertical stone configurations and horizontal wood planes, giving the house an ultra-modern feel while also creating a more intimate atmosphere. Adding to the natural charm is the walnut ceilings and tropical he olive tree walls that instantly give you a warm welcome. They’re offset by cool terrazzo floors studded with mosaic detailing. Custom-made rugs artfully connect from one zone to the next, each fitting perfectly and Tuned to provide softness in both texture and tone.
A few steps through the entrance reveals the great room, dining room and of course the view. Sliding glass doors span 30 feet wide and 10 feet high to capture the panorama. The door slides perfectly into the stone wall, allowing a perfect connection to the outdoors. And thanks to Arizona’s climate, owners can enjoy that sense of connection almost year-round, enjoying the “season” on the terrace.
“We wanted to create an outdoor living area ‘in the air,’” recalls Stinson. He offers great views of the valley below and the golf course while providing climate and creature protection. “They are floating on the scene. It’s just gorgeous,” he emphasizes. Indeed, the terrace boasts supreme relaxation. Spanning the length of the structure, it includes a full kitchen and bar, dining room, lounge area, and cozy living space with TV, plus an infinity pool and hot tub. A roof overhang beats the heat and shields the windows from the harsh sun.
A beautiful hideaway for entertaining friends and family. A floating wooden staircase leads guests to a private suite. Step by step, a large saguaro his cactus comes into view. It is completely enclosed by windows between the landings. In fact, every hallway is adorned with a work of art or has a window that wraps around a sculptural landscape. “It provides a connection to the valley through vignettes,” Thiss said. The lower level boasts similar comforts, with the same palette of warm materials, full-height ceilings and a secluded patio. Stinson is particularly proud of the home’s holistic nature, noting that the bed, desk and even storage are built-in.
Since the house was completed, the Stinsons have carol eastland, visited clients and dined on the terrace, which was once a “picture of the sky”. For architects, this circular moment is everything. “It’s fun to look at empty places and explore possibilities, and it’s fun to come back to this very place you dreamed of and enjoy each other’s company,” he thinks. . With the support of local teams, Stinson’s team spreads his award-winning architecture across the country and is actively working on additional projects in the desert and beyond.
As for this residence, what started as a part-time vacation eventually became the owner’s primary residence. I think it’s thanks to the joint style that gave me. Thiss adds:
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