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The site falls in three directions and is bordered by two deep arroyos that flood with water during monsoon season. The building sits lightly on the land, with cantilevered floors that minimize site disruption, and connects to the surrounding nature through the flow of interior and exterior space.

Relic Rock’s modular prefabricated architectural system is based on a three-dimensional structural grid, consisting of a simple set of standardized components much like an “erector set”, assembled into components in the shop and sequentially transported to the job site for erection. The floor and roof plates are constructed to span the module, and glazing, fascia, vertical screens, case work, wall panels, plumbing, electrical wiring, ductwork, insulation, stairs, and handrail are all designed in accordance to the 3D grid and incorporated into the structure. This allows for automated fabrication with precise and efficient construction.

The building envelope, comprised completely of Low-E UV protected laminated glass with a heat reflective coating, acts as a canvas for nature’s reflections of both color and texture. Adjustable vertical modular sunscreens create privacy and shading for the interior spaces while still filtering a soft light. Cantilevered from the perimeter of the roof structure, a Corten plate is pierced with small holes, creating a moving pattern on the interior and exterior that follows the angle of the sun and moon.

The entire exposed structure is comprised of Corten steel, which is a 99% recycled and maintenance-free material. Natural lighting is abundant in every room of Relic Rock; reducing the need for electricity, which is reinforced by a photovoltaic system integrated into the roofing system. Through the use of overhangs and vertical sunscreens, the glass is protected from the sun virtually throughout the summer season.

To maintain a comfortable temperature, the home features a water-sourced heat pump HVAC system. By using the large infinite edge of the pool and the courtyard fountain as a “cooling tower”, cool water is sent through a heat exchanger, which endothermically absorbs the heat generated by the heat pump cooling system. In the winter months, this process is reversed, allowing the ambient temperature of the pool to passively regulate indoor temperatures in both winter and summer months.

CONSTRUCTION

BIM-enabled Integrated Project Delivery and a collaborative developer-architect-contractor team resulted in efficiencies difficult to achieve through traditional project methods. Components modeled to exact dimensions by the architect and contractor resulted in precise fabrication of structure, glazing and architectural components that fit precisely together with zero on-site collisions or rejections. The software complements the simplicity of the building system by providing the project team with precise construction coordination, accurate bidding, 4D scheduling and construction management methodology.

Relic Rock was granted the highest level of certification for green building by the nationally recognized City of Scottsdale Green Building Program.