Joshua Tree. Just the name conjures up images of vast, untamed landscapes, sun-drenched vistas, and a certain kind of bohemian allure. It’s a place where the wild heart of California beats strongest, and where architectural innovation often finds its most striking expression. We’ve seen our fair share of audacious abodes spring up amongst the iconic cacti – from the mind-bending mirror-clad Invisible House to the sleek, mid-century inspired wood-and-stucco havens. But every now and then, something truly unique emerges, a structure that doesn’t just sit in the landscape, but actively converses with it.
Enter Casa Azzurra, the latest desert masterpiece from Italian architect Mirtilla Alliata di Montereale, and trust us, this isn’t just another pretty vacation rental; it’s a living, breathing ode to the Joshua Tree sky. Perched majestically on a sprawling 10-acre plot, Casa Azzurra commands an elevated position, offering guests unparalleled views of the majestic mountain ranges that define this captivating corner of the Golden State. But it’s not just the views that will have you reaching for your camera; it’s the very fabric of the house itself. Di Montereale, an alumna of SCI-Arc with an impressive resume that includes stints with architectural titans like Frank Gehry and Kulapat Yantrasast, has crafted a residence with walls that are, quite literally, painted with the desert sky.
The genius of Casa Azzurra lies in its intentional mirroring of the environment. The exterior walls, clad in a textured cat-face stucco, are tinted in five distinct shades of blue. This isn’t some random palette; it’s a deliberate design choice that “intentionally mirrors the shifting hues of the sky,” as the architect herself puts it. Imagine waking up to soft dawn blues, witnessing vibrant midday azure, and then watching as the walls deepen to twilight indigos, all reflecting the celestial ballet above. It’s a truly immersive experience, blurring the lines between built environment and natural wonder.
The single-storey structure is a study in elegant simplicity, comprising two main concrete volumes that intersect perpendicularly. Connecting these forms is a beautifully crafted L-shaped wooden pergola, an architectural flourish that isn’t just for show. This clever addition creates a generous shaded area, essential for enjoying the desert’s embrace. Here, you’ll find an outdoor living space that’s pure luxury: a welcoming sunken lounge complete with a fire pit for those cool desert nights, a spacious dining area perfect for al fresco feasts, a hot tub to soak away the day’s adventures, and, for the more athletically inclined, a 30-foot lap pool. This is outdoor living elevated to an art form, designed for multi-generational families or groups of friends seeking an escape amidst the area’s natural beauty.
Step inside, and the thoughtful design continues to unfold. While the main living space embraces a serene, neutral beige plaster finish, serving as a calm canvas, the bedrooms explode with personality. Based on di Montereale’s cherished memories of visiting family in Italy, each of the four bedrooms is a vibrant jewel box, decorated in a different jewel tone. These rich hues provide a delightful contrast to the subtle backdrop of the main communal area, creating individual havens of colour and comfort.
The open-plan living space itself is a testament to spaciousness and light, boasting tall ceilings that amplify the sense of airiness. Large sliding glass doors seamlessly connect the interior with the breathtaking outdoor spaces, ensuring the desert is always a part of your experience. The furniture, textiles, and artworks throughout the house are carefully curated, adding layers of interest and sophistication, while practical elements like the kitchen cabinetry cleverly blend into the neutral decor, ensuring nothing detracts from the stunning views outside.
And for those seeking an extra layer of privacy, Casa Azzurra delivers. A separate, smaller guest house stands beside a pickleball court – because what’s a desert escape without a friendly game? This ancillary structure boasts an angular roof and minimalist decor, with an interior lined with warm wood panels. The custom platform bed within is strategically positioned beneath a row of angled windows, inviting guests to lie back and stargaze, a truly magical end to any desert day.
Casa Azzurra is more than just a vacation rental; it’s a destination in itself. It’s a testament to Mirtilla Alliata di Montereale’s vision, a house that doesn’t just exist in Joshua Tree but truly belongs there. It’s a symphony in blue, a meticulously crafted sanctuary that invites you to lose yourself in the shifting hues of the desert sky. If you’re looking for an architectural escape that’s as captivating as its surroundings, Casa Azzurra might just be your next great adventure.
from The Coolector | Online Men's Lifestyle Magazine | Design, Gear & Fashion https://ift.tt/W5ZbRe9
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