Faulkner Architects studio has designed a house called “Red Rock” in Summerlin, Nevada, built with consideration to the region’s climatic conditions and natural features. The house spans 1,094 square meters (11,780-square foot) and provides a view of Las Vegas through the use of a weathered steel cantilever. The design of the house is such that its form was created through a subtractive process, with the ground excavated and various spaces carved out of it.
The house is centered around a courtyard and a square, elevated water basin, the dimensions of which are aligned with the living space. The terraces on the lower floors face the parking area and urban surroundings, while on the upper floors, sunlight is controlled using perforated steel screens and special windows, allowing for natural ventilation.
This house cleverly uses sunlight for lighting and cooling, in contrast to its natural environment. The interior space includes concrete mixed with local sand and gravel, which turns a buff color when exposed to intense sunlight, harmonizing with the weathered steel’s copper and rust tones on the exterior.
In addition, the house’s roof is covered with a photovoltaic array, and its mechanical systems, glazing, and lighting are designed to cope with the harsh climatic conditions. The “Red Rock” house creates a balance between natural and urban influences, offering beautiful views of both nature and the city of Las Vegas.