SHAPED BY SUNLIGHT, ANCHORED BY VIEWS
Oriented along an east-west axis, the house is positioned to take advantage of views toward the adjacent golf course, surrounding neighborhood, and Franklin Mountains. Its orientation responds to the movement of the sun and prevailing breezes, using the site's conditions to inform the placement and shape of the building.
The house is organized as a series of large volumes connected by expansive areas of glass. The stepped roof follows the slope of the site, breaking into three flat sections that reduce the overall scale of the house while establishing a distinct profile. The roof extends beyond the exterior walls in key areas to provide shade and reduce heat gain. Two private roof decks extend above the house, providing 360-degree views of the Franklin Mountains and El Paso.
The clients also wanted the house to be able to grow with their needs over time. The plan was developed with flexible spaces that can be reconfigured and expanded in phases. The foundation includes additional reinforcing and footings to support future additions, while the organization of utilities and modular construction approach allow new areas to be added without substantially disrupting the existing house.
The design brings together the site's climate, views, and long-term needs of the clients. Rather than designing only for the present, the house was planned to adapt as the way it is used changes over time.
PROJECT TEAM: COLBY MAYES, TIM WALSH, ERIC STEPHENS
COLLABORATORS: BEATRIZ ENRIQUEZ (INTERIORS), THI DESIGNS (INTERIORS), HARDER STRUCTURAL (STRUCTURE), 360 ENGINEERING (MEP), SER GROUP USA (CIVIL), VISTA HOME IMPROVEMENT (WINDOW SUPPLIER AND PROJECT MANGEMENT), DUNCAN CONSTRUCTION (GC), TOMAS ZARAGOZA (OWNER)
