Project Description
out a modern, open concept with simple materials to create a home for their family as well as to complement
their love of Danish contemporary furniture and artwork.
An effortless butterfly roof floats over the home and defines the distinctive design. The simple act of tilting the
roof up opens the home out to the surrounding views. Long overhangs help counteract the openness which
the butterfly roof affords while also providing shaded living spaces from the intense Arizona sun.
Rain water from the butterfly roof is collected in 2 areas. These 2 scuppers are where 80% of all the roof rain
water accumulates. During rain events these cantilevered elements create water fall features. A homeowner
goal was to install a rain water harvesting system in the future so the roof was designed to accommodate this
objective.
The angle of the butterfly roof was calculated to open the inside of the home to the mountain views beyond
while also providing the proper angle for the photovoltaic panels. The roof sloping towards the inside of the
home hides the solar panels from view.
At the low point of the butterfly roof, the structure is exposed and defines the main circulation path of the
home. Exposed concrete floors help to further define this area. The main living area of the home is centered
on a long lap pool and a two-sided fireplace element. On the interior of the home a main, central kitchen
island aligns with the pool and fireplace, this ‘living’ axis intersects with the circulation spine of the project
organizing the layout of the entire home.
Exposed beams, sandblasted block, concrete, stucco, wood floors and glass define the material palette
which bleeds from the exterior to the interior of the home. The outdoor and indoor living elements are
organized around the pool and views while the less important areas such as the garage and storage are
located on the West side of the home to act as a sound buffer as well as a heat sink from harsh West sun.
Photo-voltaics, efficient house systems, deep overhangs and future rain water harvesting plans are all part of
the sustainable planning of the home.