Red Rock House: A Desert Sanctuary Carved from Concrete and Steel

Overlooking the shimmering expanse of Las Vegas, a striking architectural statement rises from the Nevada desert. Designed by California-based Faulkner Architects, the Red Rock House is a robust and thoughtfully conceived dwelling that not only commands attention with its bold forms but also demonstrates a deep understanding of the demanding desert landscape. Topped with a dramatic weathering steel cantilever that seems to defy gravity as it gazes towards the city lights, this expansive 11,780-square foot residence in Summerlin is a masterclass in material selection and site-responsive design.

The sheer scale of the Red Rock House is impressive, yet its design is rooted in the practicalities of its environment. Faulkner Architects, with studios in both San Francisco and Truckee, meticulously considered the strong winds, dry winters, and scorching summers that define this region. The resulting structure reflects a commitment to durability and the adoption of vernacular building methods, ensuring the home stands resilient against the elements. The architects centred the entire design around a tranquil courtyard and a unique square, elevated basin of water. This water feature isn’t merely ornamental; its dimensions mirror the living space, creating a visual and spatial harmony at the heart of the home. The very form of the Red Rock House was conceived through a subtractive process, an act of excavating the ground and carefully carving out interior and exterior spaces, embedding the structure into its surroundings.

Situated in a compelling location, nestled between the dazzling energy of the Las Vegas Strip to the east and the majestic beauty of Red Rock Canyon to the west, the house acts as a fascinating fulcrum, balancing the influences of urbanity and the raw power of nature. While the harsh climate undeniably dictated the materiality and overall form of the residence, local zoning regulations, which imposed a 24-foot height limit, played a significant role in pushing the shared living spaces partially below ground level. This clever strategy not only adheres to the restrictions but also leverages the earth’s natural insulation to help regulate interior temperatures.

Despite nearly half of its considerable area being located below grade, the Red Rock House also reaches skyward with a naturally ventilated lookout that houses the sleeping quarters. This upper level is cleverly shielded by perforated steel screens, acting as a breathable veil that shades the interior spaces and carefully controls the amount of direct sunlight entering the home. This passive solar design is a key element in the house’s ability to remain comfortable throughout the year. The form of the building itself provides further environmental control, protecting the central courtyard from the prevailing north and east winds while strategically allowing cooling breezes to pass over the water basin. This airflow then naturally ventilates the living areas on the lower level through the use of steel slash doors, another subtle nod to the industrial aesthetic that permeates the design.

The striking cantilevered southern deck serves a dual purpose, providing much-needed shade to the parking area below and clearly denoting the approach to the main entrance of the house. The choice of materials further enhances the connection to the landscape. The concrete used for the floors and walls incorporates locally sourced sand, gravel, and a fly ash mix, resulting in a tone that, when illuminated by the intense desert sun, takes on the buff-coloured hue of the distant mountains, creating a visual echo of the surrounding topography. This rock-like concrete is thoughtfully paired with the rich copper and rust tones of the exterior weathering steel, a material chosen for its durability and its ability to develop a beautiful patina over time. Inside, the use of warm neutrals in the sawn oak interior finishes provides a welcoming and contrasting texture to the cooler exterior materials.

Sustainability was clearly a key consideration in the design of the Red Rock House. The expansive white, reflective roof is topped with a substantial photovoltaic array, harnessing the abundant Nevada sunshine to generate clean energy. High-efficiency glazing, along with carefully selected mechanical and lighting systems, further contribute to the home’s impressive performance in the challenging climate. The Red Rock House by Faulkner Architects is a compelling example of how thoughtful design, a deep understanding of the environment, and a considered use of materials can result in a truly exceptional and sustainable desert sanctuary.

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