M20

Internally focused and inspired by the roughhewn desert landscape, this private residence located on the outskirts of the Las Vegas Valley is a dichotomy with a stoic and seemingly impenetrable façade that gives way to a transparent and ethereal interior. Designed to create sculptural and experiential spaces without compromising orthogonal efficiency, the structure features battered walls and sharply angled detailing evocative of the iconic slot canyons throughout the region. Programmatically organized around a central courtyard, natural light spills into the living spaces through a series fully glazed, operable walls. Native desert plantings within the courtyard reinforce the connection between occupant and the land. Seeking to embody not impede the site’s natural beauty, the design uses massing and materials sympathetic to the environment to blend the structure with the land thereby maintaining the site’s organic character. Deeply set fenestrations are shrouded by exaggerated roof overhangs and chamfered detailing to provide protected access to views, light, and airflow. Operable walls of glass remove the boundaries separating indoors and out allowing occupants to feel embedded within the natural environment while reducing or eliminating the need for artificial lighting and cooling. The sandy-toned, limestone façade is compatible with the surrounding desert and is accentuated by intrusions of COR-TEN steel reflective of the rust hued sandstone formations of the adjacent Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Battered walls carry through to the interior from the façade compressing and expanding the spatial perception while establishing a dynamic sense of movement. Transparent halls and pocket gardens allow the desert to permeate the interior while creating a more thermally stable space and a deeper connection to the site. A study in spatial efficiency, every room is carefully calibrated to maximize usable space, with hidden storage solutions and clever built-ins to achieve a minimalist aesthetic without sacrificing functionality. The interior material palette is equally curated and restrained with polished concrete flooring, natural wood, and tactile textured surfaces throughout.