A modern minimalist villa in Arizona impresses with a creative metal sun protection system. The concept creates a seamless connection between the living area and the patio area: the outdoor shading protects the house from the strong sun rays and at the same time allows a distant view of the beautiful area. To ensure that the residents feel comfortable in the heat of the desert, several important components were skilfully combined. Ultimately, the covered terrace and the balcony, which is screened with metal folding doors, ensure optimal comfort. We present to you the Red Rocks holiday home.
A Spanish colonial-style villa is being remodeled
In the middle of Arizona, on a hill, there is a property with a wonderful view of the plains and the nearby small town. There was originally a house in the Spanish colonial style on it. The old building was beautiful in itself, but it simply didn't meet the needs of the new owners. A small terrace barely left room for a coffee table, the building itself had small windows and a plastered facade that warmed up quickly on hot days. The distribution of space inside was also not convincing - although a magnificent entrance welcomed the guests, it led to the small and dark living area. The end result was that the residents couldn't admire the view, they could only regulate the room temperature with air conditioning and high electricity costs, and the small windows didn't let enough fresh air into the rooms anyway. A perfect example of how architecture must first be tailored to the terrain and surroundings, rather than personal style preferences.
Outdoor shading in a minimalist style
The owners commissioned The Ranch Mine architects to design a modern home where the line between inside and outside merges. At the same time, the new building had to be energy efficient - that is, the residents no longer wanted to invest in air conditioning, but in a sun protection system. The architects decided to demolish the old building and build a minimalist villa in its place. The new house consists of oneBuilding volume with flat roofh. The structure was made of concrete and steel - so that the facade fits harmoniously into the surroundings, natural materials such as travertine stone and wood were used.
Generous floor-to-ceiling windows on the second floor allow ample sunlight into the rooms and allow guests to admire the scenery from every room. A pool invites you to cool off. The absolute highlight in the outdoor area is the spacious, sun-protected balcony that surrounds the house and the covered terrace next to the pool. On the one hand, it offers more space to spend time outdoors, and on the other hand, the outdoor shading ensures a balanced indoor climate in the living and sleeping areas.
The balcony is protected from the sun's rays by an electronically controlled system - the punched vertical folding blinds made of metal can shield only parts of the balcony or the entire balcony, as required. The attractive motifs create an exciting play of light and shadow on the balcony during the day. In the evening, the sliding doors can be pushed aside so that the family can admire the sunset.
A comfortable lounge area with a corner sofa offers the opportunity to recover from the strong rays of sunshine and end the evening with a cocktail with friends. Unlike traditional blinds, the stamped metal panels allow the wind to pass through. All bedrooms located on the second floor face the balcony and the flatland.
They are also protected from the strong rays of the sun by tall palm trees and desert shrubs. The plants and flowers play a crucial role and significantly increase the feel-good factor - at the same time, they are extremely easy to care for and can get by with little water. A decisive advantage, as resources are saved in this way.
The covered terrace
On the ground floor, residents can look forward to a spacious terrace on two levels. Nothing is missing there - pool, hot tub, sun loungers leave nothing to be desired when it comes to wellness. Several illuminated steps lead to the outdoor kitchen on the side and the adjacent dining area. The second floor casts cooling shade on the barbecue area and the hill protects the outdoor seating area from wind. In Arizona, the temperatures actually vary greatly, which is typical for a desert landscape. During the day it is very hot, in the evening – very cold. Wind protection plays a crucial role in ensuring that residents feel comfortable on the terrace even after the sunset.
Outdoor shading regulates the indoor climate in the living area
The outdoor shading regulates the indoor climate in the house - so the residents can marvel at nature through the extensively glazed facade. The living area is very bright, but is still in the shade.The concrete floorkeeps your feet pleasantly cool and the built-in ventilation system (typical of American houses) increases living comfort.
It was furnished - typical for theminimalist living style– rather economical. The white walls and glass railings create a seamless transition between the different areas and levels. When it comes to materials, leather, linen, glass and metal form an attractive ensemble. The simple design language of the furniture forms the perfect background for modern art. Numerous paintings decorate the walls and give the rooms character.
Project by:The Ranc Mine
