The design presents a residence that engages deeply with its surrounding environment by utilizing shadows to guide its users. Located in the Southwestern region of the United States, the home deliberately isolates itself from the surrounding society and technology. This approach helps create a strong connection with the natural landscape. The overall concept focuses on the role of light as a primary influence, contrasting with the solidity of the materials employed in its construction.

Colonnade as Temporal Marker

Central to the design is the colonnade, which acts as the main timekeeper of the house. It reflects shadows throughout the day, creating an engaging interaction between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The design utilizes the Spring Equinox on March 20th to inform how light and shadow direct movement, thus establishing a rhythm for daily living that aligns with the natural world.

Spatial Organization and Courtyards

The project features two courtyards that help to separate different functional areas while enhancing a sense of solitude and reflection. These open spaces enrich the experience of the residence and provide moments for pause and contemplation. The colonnade facilitates movement throughout the home, guiding users from one space to another while allowing them to engage with the changing patterns of light and shadow played out over the course of the day.

Materiality and Structure

Material selection plays a significant role in the building's overall character and performance. The main material used is cast-in-place concrete, chosen for its strength and durability. This choice supports the creation of expansive, flat surfaces that interact meaningfully with natural light. Additionally, curtain walls are included to invite shadows into the interior, bridging the divide between inside and outside.

Ultimately, the design fosters a close relationship with natural phenomena, inviting residents to connect with the flow of time. The shifting nature of light and shadow alters the living experience, making the house more than just a structure—it becomes a responsive space that actively engages with the lives of its inhabitants. The thoughtful arrangement of materials and light results in a clear architectural identity that speaks to its environment.