CAVERNA OBSCURA is a residential design located near the Grand Canyon in Flagstaff, Arizona. It explores the relationship between light and shadow while reflecting on philosophical themes. Inspired by Plato’s ideas on perception, the design creates a space that enhances the human experience. The sunken structure integrates well with the rugged landscape, combining natural forms with modern architectural lines.

Architectural Form and Spatial Layout

The design features a sunken form that connects with the surrounding environment. This choice not only makes the building visually appealing but also allows it to blend into the landscape. The layout effectively organizes living spaces, promoting interaction with natural light and the outdoor setting.

Lighting Strategies

Thoughtful lighting strategies are incorporated throughout the various rooms. The kitchen includes a light well, as well as a mini-light well behind the cabinets and a direct skylight. This design allows abundant natural light to enter, making the space inviting for cooking and gatherings while maximizing energy efficiency.

Outdoor Integration

The courtyard is an important transition area. It features a canvas cover that protects from sand and provides shade. This allows for outdoor use throughout the year, encouraging residents to enjoy the area and enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Interior Spaces and Functional Design

Inside, the dwelling prioritizes privacy and comfort. The living room benefits from a combination of a light well and a direct skylight, creating interesting light patterns that enhance the atmosphere. The bathroom focuses on privacy with indirect lighting and visual blocks. In the bedroom, sunlight comes in directly, and practical features like an alarm clock in the dressing area add to the room's usability.

The rough texture of the stone walls connects the interior to the natural landscape outside. This choice of material reinforces the building's presence in the desert environment, grounding its design. The thoughtful integration of light and space makes CAVERNA OBSCURA a compelling example of how architecture can relate to its surroundings.