Casa Desierto
Casa Desierto was one of those once in a life-time design projects because the entire property, from the interior to the exterior had great bones, set on the most extraordinary desert lots surrounded by ancient boulders, some of which are millions of years old.
Originally designed in the style of Adobe, I converted the home to a 1920's inspired Spanish hacienda with a grand outdoor pool & courtyard. Greatly influenced by the natural, raw desert, materials chosen for the home (flooring, tiles, doors and even the furniture) had to feel both new and old, calm but moody, open and free.
I started by tearing down the interior of the home, removing walls to create free flowing, open living spaces, and cutting into the exterior walls to install 18 doors, and two very large picture windows in the living room to emphasize the spectacular backyard desert boulders. Opening the interior and exterior through large doors and windows allowed for sunlight to penetrate the interior spaces, creating dramatic shadows and moods that evolve throughout the day and night.
To enter the home, you come through two large Spanish doors that I had made in Mexico by master carpenters, and into a barreled room (the ceiling is arched), creating immediate drama & mood.
Custom Spanish iron sconces flank the entry walls, while an original 20's lamp pendant hangs from the arched ceiling. One of my favorite rooms in the house because it really sets the stage for what to experience as you explore the whole home.
Prior to the remodel, the home had three bedrooms, each with their own bathrooms. I added a forth bedroom by converted the garage into a private bed & bath suite with its own walk-in shower, and walk-in closet, dubbed the "Casita” and has its own separate entrance.
Bedrooms were given large double doors to expose the backyard views, while allowing for both ample daylight and nighttime stargazing.
Each bedroom has its own private bathroom, walk in showers with Mexican tiles, original iron pendants, and custom made Monterrey style doors, beds and nightstands.
The home needed it's desert oasis.
For the exterior, I installed a large cocktail pool (4.5' deep) and spa with beautiful handmade aqua tiles to be the centerpiece of the outdoor pool deck, with four pool lounge chairs and two custom made umbrellas.
I also installed 12' tall privacy wall to create an outdoor courtyard with large teak table for evening dining.
The whole of the outdoor space creates a spectacular impression on entry through two narrow Mexican doors.
