The view of the sands and mesas in Arizona is an undeniable attraction, and Kathy Hancox and Michael Kothke of HK Associates wanted to capture it. Teaming up with Lemarr Construction and Premium Custom Builders, the firms have brought to life the Real House in Tucson, a custom home designed to take in the beauty of Arizona’s deserts.  

The siting, architecture, and the creative use of mirrors work to reduce the visual obstruction of neighboring houses, providing a striking view of the arroyo and the Santa Catalina Mountains. Careful topographic cuts and fill manipulations help to prevent the site from disturbing desert habitats and interfering with the arroyo’s natural floodplain.  

The home echoes traditional desert architecture through its Sonoran Desert-style courtyard and white plaster. The materials work to retain heat in cold weather and keep the home cool in the warmer months. Rooftop and hardscape runoff direct water to pockets of vegetation, encouraging desert wildlife to eat, drink, or shelter in view of the occupants.