Project Data:

Completion Date:     1/31/2022

Square Footage:      9022

Building Use:           Residential

Project Description:

As a high-end single-family residence, this Coachella Valley project aims to integrate with the immediate context of the California desert. The residence was designed around the interest in the landscape by the clients, whose primary home is in a colder climate. The design maximizes the indoor outdoor relationship that is essential in order to fully experience the unique California desert landscape and climate. Through its modern and material-forward design concept, the building is a perfect custom fit for its context. Being in the desert requires lots of consideration of the sun's impact and thus the project used sun studies in order to create intrinsic efficiency. The transparency of the building with regards to its use of glass was created by keeping the high-impact south side and the low-impact north side in mind. Sun shades and overhangs were used not as a mere add-on to the main form but as a complementary form that works seamlessly with the structure. It was gravely important to treat every necessary function as a part of the minimal concept rather than handling it as only a utilitarian issue. We believe that what makes a concept legible is the uniform treatment of all elements of architecture. The muted color palette of the project also plays a part in this overall concept of emphasizing the desert and the indoor outdoor relationship. Through the use of seamless facades that are less saturated, the landscape's colors pop, and the eye is always drawn to the view. The clean-cut corners of the forms allow the view to be framed aesthetically. In a way, the elegant form acts as a large window to the desert landscape throughout the house. In addition to this thoughtful framing, water features in the project help to break up the uniformity of the materials and provide a very serene transitional material for the user experiencing the space. For instance, the infinity pool feature on the back elevation helps the eye to seamlessly transition from the minimal clean stone material to the natural landscape. The edgeless pool also gives an idea of the recreational aspect of the residence while still reflecting the incredible views when not in use. Well-being in terms of health and exercise was very important in designing the program of the residence, and other recreational areas such as a gym and a spa were included. The project symbolizes the Californian beauty and health-oriented lifestyle in every aspect of its concept. Being a place for serene relaxation and fresh air, the Coachella Valley's healing energy flows through the architecture and is meant to be a therapeutic experience for the residents and their guests.

Firm Name:              Hudgins Design Group, Inc

Completion Date:     1/31/2022

Square Footage:      9022

Building Use:           Residential

Location:                 Granite Ridge Road, Rancho Mirage

Project Description:
The project addresses the Design for Integration framework through its connection to the desert landscape. The harsh climate of the desert is overcome with mindful design such as window orientations and materials. The stone material used is chosen to be a muted color palette in order to bring attention to the desert environment. The house does not compete with the view of the Californian landscape but rather acts as a viewing spot.

Design for water framework is addressed in the project through indoor water efficiency by green building appliances and features. In addition, the landscaping is chosen from native desert plants which significantly reduces the need for irrigation.

The Design for Energy framework is fulfilled in the project through the reduction of energy use by architectural north-facing views and glass orientation on site. The project exceeds CA title 24 requirements with additional insulation and upgraded glazing U-values. Two bodies of water are also used for passive cooling during harsh months of the desert climate.

Design for Well-Being framework was a very important aspect of the project. The design connects the occupants to the land by capturing incredible views in various directions. Recreation is addressed through the program which includes a gym and an emphasis on the swimming pool and spa. The residence was designed to maximize indoor-outdoor living by allowing the residents to live outdoors under the same roof by opening up entire walls.

Design Architect:

Associate Architect or Firm:
Hudgins Design Group, Inc.

Landscape Architect:
TKD Associates, INC

Owner / Developer:
Jeff Engler

Engineer:
JN Engineering
GMEP Engineers
McGee Surveying

General Contractor:
Quinn Enterprises, INC.

Consultant:
MSA Consulting, INC.
Sladden Engineering, INC.

Photographer:
Blake Bronstad
Mollie Kimberling