Taos

Taos is an artist residency nestled between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the desert of Taos. Rooted in a site-responsive design, the project integrates natural elements : sun, wind, and earth, to shape both form and experience. A sweeping curve emerged as a guiding architectural gesture, harmonizing the residency’s program with the landscape whilst creating a fluid spatial dialogue between built and natural environments.

The design approach is deeply inspired by the artists of the Taos region, particularly Georgia O’Keeffe, whose paintings capture the interplay between the desert, mountains, and sunlight. This influence led to an exploration of organic curves, shaping the building’s form in response to the sun’s path, prevailing winds, and key site views. The levels reflects the artistic process, with bedrooms embedded into the landscape, grounding the artist in their new environment, whilst the studios hover above, offering an elevated space for creativity.

Sustainability is central to the design, tackling the challenges of a high-diurnal swing environment through vernacular design. The residential spaces retain warmth at night, while the studios remain cool during the day. Passive design strategies and the use of traditional adobe construction playing a fundamental role in thermal mass regulation.