Desert Geode Residence, Protected by a striking silhouette of folding metal planes and blasted-face masonry, this residence recalls the contrasting characteristics of a geode shimmering in the bright Arizona sun. Inside, glass extending up to the outer shell-like roof fills the interior space with natural daylight.
© Ema Peter Photography
Here, the material palette lightens and becomes softer and more intimate through a warm symphony of various wood species and other natural materials. Punctuations of metal and stone relate to the exterior shell while creating eye-catching and sophisticated contrasts in the interior spaces.
© Ema Peter Photography
Beyond the foyer, a lush courtyard bursts into view, a contained oasis in the midst of the desert. Basins within capture and slowly release rainwater during the monsoon season, allowing the landscape to thrive and flourish. Meanwhile, the great room beckons with distant views of Camelback Mountain, the perfect backdrop for gatherings and relaxation.
South Elevation
Moving to the southern exposure, the home becomes more transparent, welcoming guests to explore the various terraces and enjoy the negative-edge pool’s cascading waters, which assist with the passive cooling strategy of the home. Intimate dining areas, cozy fire features, and a comfortable open-air cabana sheltered by an organically patterned metal screen and lush vegetation complete the idyllic scene.
© Ema Peter Photography
The Desert Geode draws on the power of nature and the fluidity of expression afforded by a modernist approach to design, seamlessly integrating sustainability and regional appropriateness into a breathtakingly innovative home that celebrates the joys of living in the Arizona desert.
Project Info
Architects: Kendle Design Collaborative
Country: United States, Paradise Valley
Area: 7200 ft²
Year: 2025
Photographs: Ema Peter Photography
Manufacturers Subzero/Wolf, Fleetwood , Listone Giordano, Mesastone Block, Western States Metal Roofing: Subzero/Wolf
Lead Team: Cathleen Kebert
Office Lead Architects: Brent Kendle, Cathleen Kebert
Design Team: Kendle Design Collaborative
Interior Design: Wiseman & Gale Interiors
Landscape Architecture: Colwell Shelor Landscape Architecture
Engineering & Consulting > Lighting: Creative Designs in Lighting
General Constructing: G M Hunt Builders & Remodelers
Madeline Brooks is a Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she has been shaping and refining architectural content since March 2024. With over a decade of experience in editorial work, she has curated, revised, and published an array of projects covering architecture, urbanism, and public space design. A graduate of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Madeline brings a strong academic foundation and a discerning editorial eye to each piece she oversees. Since joining Arch2O, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the platform’s editorial direction, with a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and cutting-edge design. Madeline excels at translating complex architectural ideas into clear, engaging stories that resonate with both industry professionals and general readers. She works closely with architects, designers, and global contributors to ensure every project is presented with clarity, depth, and compelling visual narrative. Her editorial leadership continues to elevate Arch2O’s role in global architectural dialogue.