A Wintertime Paradise
"I wanted to maintain a sustainable presence in the desert environment, while elevating the design of the home"
For a couple from the Midwest, the home in Tucson’s Catalina Foothills was their self-described wintertime “paradise.” Situated in a neighborhood of homes designed and built in the 1980’s, there were a few challenges Stephan had to consider in the design process. His guiding principles were sustainability and the elevation of the home's design to complement its foothill setting. Throughout, he ensured that the feel of the home was in keeping with the natural landscape, while gently honoring the southwestern cultural and design traditions.
The home was in good condition and had some excellent design features when Stephan began the renovations. One enters through a walkway and small courtyard defined by an ocotillo fence and desert plantings. Inside, a central and defining feature is a wall of windows overlooking an unobstructed view of the city and the sunsets over the Tucson mountains. Another northwest view facing the imposing Santa Catalina mountains is framed by the dining
room window. Fortunately, the ceilings in the main living areas were over ten feet, bringing in the light, and magnifying the views.
The choice of a natural color palette accentuated by splashes of bright primary colors highlights the mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings. Stephan installed shiplap board on the ceiling of the main living areas to add textural depth and a visual accent. A large Indonesian bark cloth serves as a wall hanging adding warmth and intimacy to the study, which serves as a juxtaposition to the airy living room. Throughout the home, the owners' collection of vintage Mexican folk art pottery and earthenware sculpture is featured in a thoughtful nod to the borderlands.
The primary bedroom is a light-filled and comfortable oasis with delightful views of the backyard desert garden and city panoramic view beyond. The splashes of yellow and ochre playfully interact with a vintage quilt hanging opposite the bed. A guest bedroom on the opposite end of the home serves as a quiet retreat with its own enclosed patio.
Overall, Stephan's sense of respect for the clients' wishes and the desert setting characterizes this project. The gardens are thoughtfully planned, and the interiors demonstrate the considered use of furniture, fabrics, and art. The home and its setting live up to the owners' designation of the home as their Southwest paradise.
