Desert Architecture Series #4 | Dale Gardon | Scottsdale, Arizona

The 5300-square foot home was designed to have the floor plan uniquely configured to provide all the Primary Living spaces at the second level, and all the secondary Bedroom/Bath/Recreation Room at the first level. This floor plan “inversion” provides unbelievable panoramic views that would not have been possible with a conventional floor plan design. Expansive windows and doors were strategically placed taking advantage of natural light throughout the day and creating plenty of Outdoor Living spaces with great Indoor/Outdoor connectivity. The home is also axially aligned with Pinnacle Peak, Camelback Mountain, and McDowell Mountain peak providing enriching daytime and nighttime panoramic views in many directions.

The exterior design and massing is complete with a front “porch” and broad shaded roofs reminiscent of regionally appropriate Ranch homes. The exterior materials reflect the character of Western Regional Ranch Architecture but with a Contemporary interpretation and current siding materials that provide longer lasting durability of aluminum, but with the richness of the warm wood tone. The metal standing seam roof provides a striking contrast to the earth tone taupe stucco walls. 32 solar roof panels are skillfully hidden above the primary sloping roof.

The home was constructed with SIP (Structural Insulated Panels) roof and wall panels, rather than the traditional method of drywall construction, which come prefabricated, saving on on-site construction costs. Other advantages are energy efficiency, high levels of insulation, reduced product waste, and structural stability.

The Interior Design of the home was designed with cool whites, interlaced with soft and rich wood tones offering bold contrasts of dark to light accents. The Kitchen is the helm for entertainment, and is blessed with internal and external views in all directions. The cabinetry is composed of four colors of white, grey, mushroom brown, with the visual pop of reconstituted Zebrawood. The panoramic view Dining Booth Alcove is the undeniable place to retreat to for morning coffee, or dinner. The desert yellow green leather seats in combination with the graphic print of the seat backs create a wonderful visual link to the desert vegetation beyond. The Family Conversation area is enhanced by the tightly grooved wood ceilings designed to offer an acoustic benefit as well the intimacy of a lower ceiling. The linear fireplace is the focal accent of the room with charcoal grey tile that effectively camouflages the TV, but is also pinstriped with aluminum channels for added intrigue. Two display niches provide the visual depth of the thick walls and a highlight for the artifacts within. The Master Bath has the serenity of a luxurious Spa, yet with the well thought out compactness and efficient use of space, including an exterior door leading to the outdoor shower at the second level to enjoy the sunlight or moonlight on your face while showering in complete privacy. The Outdoor Entertainment area has all comforts needed of a fire table, BBQ, Bistro Table, and lounge seating.

Website - http://dalegardondesign.com
Film by Chibi Moku - http://chibimoku.com
Color Grading by Thomas Stigler