Desert Fairway

Paradise Valley / Arizona / USA

Nestled amongst a rich palette of native vegetation, the Desert Fairways Residence slowly reveals itself as it emerges from its lush surroundings. Its design captures the eye, with low masses defining private zones that contrast with a dynamically folded metal plane that shelters the social zone. Changing hues of textured metal cast rhythmic shadows, recalling the ribs of a cactus, while rhythm masonry forms shield the interior from western sun.

Kendle Design inspired us with their demonstrated ability to create organic and sustainable architecture suitable for our unique desert property. Throughout an iterative process, they impressed us with their listening ability, creativity, and passion for great design. We are confident that we will have an inviting, warm, and livable legacy home. Having had the opportunity to work with many outstanding architects throughout our careers, we feel Kendle Design is deserving of standout recognition within the profession.

-Desert Fairways, Home Owner

Low walls of layered earth guide one up to the front entry where a fractured rammed earth tower establishes an exterior foyer, creating a powerful and welcoming presence. An organically patterned metal sunshade cast playful spots of light and shadow along these walls while vertical trellis screens the interior space.

Inside, the ribbed metal fascia transitions to warm wood, whose lines draw one’s eye back out to the exterior environment. The refined and sophisticated palette of earth-derived materials continues inside with natural stone floors, rammed earth accents walls, and ground face block surfaces extending into select rooms.

A subtle yet profound intervention takes the form of an almost imperceptible line of glass, strategically positioned beneath deep overhangs. This design choice blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, inviting occupants to engage intimately with the natural surroundings. The expansive views – from the immediate allure of the desert flora to the captivating city lights in the distant valley – become integral components of the living experience. Moreover, planar roof forms, artfully contoured, play a functional role in capturing and redistributing rainwater to sustain adjacent vegetation.

A lush desert garden approaches the interior, its proximity heightened by a nearly frameless glass wall which dissolves any sense of boundary. Beyond, glimpses of the golf course appear through the diverse, low-water-use, plantings which ground the mountain views beyond. A narrow pool reflects the blue Arizona sky while simultaneously cascading down textured walls to compose a soothing harmony of sound and visual delight while creating a cool micro-climate within the outdoor living area.

Lounging on the terrace adjacent to the pool, the themes of contrasting elements— the transparency and solidity of the building against the delicate foliage, the distinction of interior to exterior, and play of light and shadow—create a perfect balance and oasis. The Desert Fairways Residence is a testament to the power of design to transform the built environment and elevate our daily lives.

Rammed Earth walls, constructed from soil excavated on-site, gracefully ascend from the desert floor, echoing the countours of the surrounding mountain range. The outcome is a residence that harmoniously integrates with its environment, eloquently expressing its distinctive sense of place in the world.