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Desert Homes
W
e believe homes should be designed to respond to the unique site upon which
they are constructed, regardless of any particular style. In the case of our firm,
the building site is the Sonoran Desert. We design homes to reflect and respond to the
rugged yet f ragile environment, hot in the summer and cold in the winter. With proper
planning, all times of the year can be experienced, and in most projects, I am looking for
multiple ways for the interior space to connect to the exterior space.
In addition to site response and fully appreciating the environment, good design is
based upon understanding clients' goals. New materials and techniques are helpful tools
to expand the way in which our designs respond to our clients' goals and the Sonoran
Desert setting that we love. The creative process involves learning about our clients, their
goals, how they live, how they might live over time, and how they will grow. Then comes
the most challenging, yet fun, part of the process: the synchronization of our clients'
lifestyle with the character of the site.
We want to integrate form, function, and lifestyle with the lay of the land, as well as
existing natural features and views to create exciting yet comfortable interior and exterior
spaces. As you study the desert homes featured on these pages, keep in mind the
dynamics that are at play—it makes the homes all the more fascinating and enjoyable.
Ronald W. Robinette, AIA, NCARB
Robinette Architects, Inc.
Tucson, AZ
See page 462
