The Catalina Foothills 602

Perhaps the most difficult challenge an architect faces is to design his own home. Narrowing the myriad of possibilities to a concise concept, in this case, was facilitated by site restrictions. The site borders the Valley View Wash which flows through the Tucson Foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The flood plane restrictions required the house to be terraced above the wash. The lot is narrow and deep with neighbouring houses to each side requiring a need for privacy. 

What evolved out of these site restrictions was a narrow, deep house, fit tightly between neighbouring homes yet open to a vast sandy wash area in the back. Terraces, balconies, courtyards and outdoor room with fireplace all became elements of outdoor living. The wash is an important natural feature that is emphasized throughout the house and divides the residence from the architect’s studio where privacy, yet closeness to family, is enjoyed.