For years, the land sat quietly in the foothills north of Scottsdale, its slope tracing a natural path alongside a seasonal arroyo. The owners held onto it, returning between the Midwest and Arizona, taking their time to understand how they wanted to live here. When construction finally began, Koss design+build approached the project with a clear goal, shaping the home to sit naturally along the contours of the land.
A Material Palette Built for the Desert
The home uses a restrained mix of exposed, bead blasted concrete block, stucco, metal, and glass. The materials give the house a solid presence while keeping the overall form clean. A large roof overhang extends across the structure, helping protect the glass from the intensity of the Arizona sun.
Outdoor Spaces That Step With the Land
The exterior spaces are organized with a series of defined elements. A raw steel fire feature, floating outdoor BBQ, and steel planters create a consistent material language.
The patio is finished in sand-textured concrete and arranged in terraces that step with the slope. The planters are filled with cacti, reinforcing the desert setting. Above, an angled roof fascia frames views toward the mountains.
An Entry Framed in Glass
The entry is marked by a bright blue pivoting front door. From here, a glass bridge connects the foyer with the garage and guest areas.
This bridge is a narrow strip of glass with a floating cedar ceiling that continues down the wall, forming a built-in key drop. It acts as both circulation and a visual link through the home.
Living Spaces Oriented to the View
The living room is anchored by a fireplace and entertainment wall. Cherry veneer cabinetry is paired with oxidized steel panels, creating contrast in tone and texture.
Next to it, the dining area is enclosed by floor to ceiling glass. A three-panel sliding door system opens directly to the patio, allowing the space to extend outdoors.
A Kitchen Defined by Line and Alignment
The kitchen continues the material palette with cherry veneer cabinets and quartz countertops. A floating cedar ceiling aligns with the entry ceiling, creating a consistent visual line through the home.
A Plan That Separates Work and Rest
A full-height barn door conceals a home office near the primary suite, allowing it to be closed off when needed. The layout separates spaces clearly, with public areas facing the view and more private functions positioned further along the plan.
A Bedroom Positioned for Quiet Views
The primary bedroom is positioned to take advantage of the views, with large windows facing the desert. An accent wall made from three-dimensional lava rock tile adds texture to the space.
A Bathroom Shaped by Texture and Light
The bathroom continues the same restrained approach. A floating wood vanity is paired with dark gray quartz counters. A step-free shower with frameless glass sits in the corner, while a freestanding tub is placed against a three-dimensional tile wall.
Casa Puente is shaped by its site at every level. From the terraced patio to the placement of each room, the design follows the slope instead of flattening it.