Project 2006 - Sweet Caroline

The design of this home was based on the idea of two different worlds, or cultures merging together: Anglos and Navajos. Our concept is first represented in plan. There are two central walls. One wall is straight and the other is curved. This is where the Modern Anglo rectilinear home breaks off from the Navajo Traditional Hogan. It is the central space between the two walls where these two worlds merge. Traditional Navajo Home features a door entrance on the east, and a central fireplace.

The idea continues through the use of materials. For example, Hardiboard is a newer product used for siding in comparison to more traditional earthen plasters used to cover and strengthen walls. To merge the new with the traditional, a major material used throughout the building is Flex-Crete. This home also employs sustainable building techniques including a rammed earth trombe wall and passive solar design.