Located at 7,000 feet and surrounded by sagebrush, juniper, cactus and mountain views, the wild setting mandated a structure respectful of the site. The shed roof mimics the slope of the hillside and collects precious rainwater, and eight photovoltaic panels located uphill of the house supply electricity to a battery bank without affecting the profile of the house.
  
Corrugated metal, concrete, adobe, stone, and native pine beams form the palette, which settles the house in its stark surroundings.  The house was designed around passive solar principles with 2 ½ -foot thick adobe walls, and concrete floors with radiant heat.  Custom fir windows provide most of the light.  The design utilized healthy alternatives to plywood and paints.