Midcentury Inspired Desert Home Produces as Much Energy as it Uses

Rancho Vista Uno

Based in Palm Springs, o2 architecture have a passion and dedication for sustainable desert design. After just one year of occupancy the home exceeded the client’s net-zero goals and produced more electricity than it used in the year. 

It was important during site planning and architectural details to maximize western views of the San Jacinto mountain range whilst at the same time minimizing the overheating that comes with expansive west facing windows.

Rancho Vista Uno
Rancho Vista Uno

Deep roof extensions soar outward from the two master suites and expand the indoor-outdoor living space. At the same time these extensions allow for protection from the intense sunshine that beams down on Palm Springs for much of the year.

The garden is perfectly manicured with a mix of cacti and palm trees both so well suited to the hot desert climate of Palm Springs. The pool area features pavers and artificial lawn, conserving water. There are no large trees along the back fence which allows for sweeping views of the San Jacinto mountains.

Rancho Vista Uno
Rancho Vista Uno

Specially designed external window screens comprised of sheets of metal with different patterns of perforations can be rolled over or off the glass depending on the time of day. These rolling shade panels protect the west windows from the low angle setting sun and provide a delightful experience with ever-changing shadow patterns.

Rancho Vista Uno

Every inch of living space is maximized in this 2,100 square foot home. Upon entering the house, a right turn takes you to the open plan living, dining and kitchen whilst a left turn leads to the secondary bedrooms.

The living area is bright and airy with clerestory windows and a large floor to ceiling glass doors which open the space up directly to the outdoors patio and swimming pool. An additional outdoor living area has further seating, a built-in mini kitchen and bar seating and seamlessly integrates the home’s two wings. 

Rancho Vista Uno
Rancho Vista Uno
Rancho Vista Uno

The master bedroom is reached from the living area and has two sets of glass sliding doors – one front-facing that open directly to the outdoor living area and swimming pool and another side-facing.  A system of rolling shades minimized overheating of the west-facing windows and helps to prevent glare.

Rancho Vista Uno

Rancho Vista Uno is an exemplary example of taking the midcentury modern aesthetic and blending it with new technology to create a functional, beautiful, and sustainable home.

Rancho Vista Uno
Photos by Lance Gerber