the ranch mine transforms neglected horse farm into secluded respite in arizona

on the north side of the phoenix mountain preserve, in arizona, architecture firm the ranch mine has transformed a neglected horse farm into a secluded respite away from city life. dubbed ‘o-asis’ the project comprises a solar-powered, O-shaped smart home designed to integrate modern life with the timeless beauty of music, sunlight, and desert flora and fauna.

all images by roehner + ryan

‘o-asis’ by the ranch mine sits low in the desert, partially surrounded by a rusted steel rattlesnake fence and finished in white stucco with recessed niches of ipe wood. its strong horizontal form was designed as a datum for highlighting the dramatic shapes of the desert landscape. the pool breaks from the ‘O’ shape of the plan, drawing the attention out to the desert, towards the mountain views. capped by a built-in fire pit bench, the pool area is an ideal place to catch some sun during the day or lay under the stars at night.

the exterior of the dwelling is formed as an elevated native sonoran desert plant palate, designed to highlight the biodiversity of the native natural species that evolve and change from season to season. in addition, the topography was finessed and exaggerated to connect natural drainage areas and habitat, while providing strategic screening and privacy.

upon entering the premises, residents are greeted by a central courtyard that brings in indirect natural light, and ensures sufficient ventilation. furthermore, this area features a collection of unique regional plants that change appearance with the light, shadow, growth, and seasons, serving like artworks for the homeowners. pocketing glass doors on either side of the structure funnel cool breezes through the house, while providing a seamless indoor/outdoor flow, and transforming the main living areas of the house into a covered open air space in seconds.

the common room features areas of walnut slats backed with acoustic felt to provide an environment with good sound quality for the homeowner who is a skillful pianist. like the piano, almost everything in the house can be controlled wirelessly, such as the lights, the speakers, the blinds, the locks, cameras, and so on.

hidden in one of the slat walls, a pivot door leads to the primary suite which uses most of the space as a spa-inspired bathroom and a retail-inspired closet. a 4-sided, sky-lit island provides his and her vanities, a makeup area, and a bench while a limestone-clad steam shower provides a rejuvenating refuge around the corner. on the other side of this room, a yoga area runs right up to the desert floor, with cork flooring providing a soft surface to practice on.