Tucson Mountain Retreat Inspired By Desert Sands

The architecture firm DUST is behind the Tucson Mountain Retreat, a rammed earth house located on the outskirts of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona

Placed delicately in its context, architecture firm DUST’s Tucson Mountain Retreat is situated on the outskirts of the lush Sonoran Desert, designed in direct response to its intriguing setting. The architects, who describe the project as being ‘rooted in the desert’, have created a striking rammed earth dwelling that makes minimum impact on its fragile environment. It seamlessly blends into the surrounding Arizona landscape, featuring elegant, clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic – making it the perfect backdrop for our September issue’s ‘High noon’ fashion shoot.

The house was meticulously positioned to optimize sun exposure without excessive solar heat gain and to allow for uninterrupted 360-degree views. The initial decision to use rammed earth greatly informed the design and construction of the property and played a crucial role in the process of submerging the home into the landscape.

As for the interiors, they are strongly influenced by the surrounding landscape. The color palette is earthy, rather dark yet comfortable. The walls are covered with earthy panels reminding of the desert sands. There’s an accent black wall, adorable art works and even a fireplace that adds to the atmosphere. The home is uncluttered and very modern, it is opened to the desert outside and can be closed any time with glass doors.

2 of 10
The home is divided into three clear zones, there are living areas, bedrooms and entertainment quarters

The home is divided into three clear zones, there are living areas, bedrooms and entertainment quarters

3 of 10
The colors and materials used in decor were strongly influenced by the desert and it's earthy feel

The colors and materials used in decor were strongly influenced by the desert and it's earthy feel

4 of 10
The colors are comfy, cozy and neutral, while the decor is very modern and edgy

The colors are comfy, cozy and neutral, while the decor is very modern and edgy

5 of 10
An earthy, warm aesthetic is afforded via the rammed earth construction, whereby soil is compacted into architectural formwork

An earthy, warm aesthetic is afforded via the rammed earth construction, whereby soil is compacted into architectural formwork

6 of 10
The home can be opened to outdoors due to the extensive glazings used

The home can be opened to outdoors due to the extensive glazings used

7 of 10
There are several terraces and outdoor relax zones and the house is rather eco-friendly

There are several terraces and outdoor relax zones and the house is rather eco-friendly

8 of 10
A series of sculptural concrete steps greets visitors and leads them to the main entrance

A series of sculptural concrete steps greets visitors and leads them to the main entrance

9 of 10
The architects describe their design as being 'rooted in the desert', due to its pared down natural aesthetic that blends seamlessly with its setting

The architects describe their design as being 'rooted in the desert', due to its pared down natural aesthetic that blends seamlessly with its setting

10 of 10
Excessive solar heat gain has been avoided by orienting the house on an east-west axis and by reducing door and window openings along these facades

Excessive solar heat gain has been avoided by orienting the house on an east-west axis and by reducing door and window openings along these facades

Source: wallpaper