Desert Rebirth: Restoring a Sonoran Landscape Around a Barragán-Style Home

Bringing Back the Desert

In Paradise Valley, Arizona, the previous owner had erased nearly all evidence of the Sonoran desert. The current homeowners wanted the lot to look as it did 20 years ago. Landscape architect Steve Martino trucked in dozens of native mesquite, palo verde, brittlebush, and other plants to recreate habitats. He also helped choose Barragán-style wall colors and designed two elevated reflecting pools—simple concrete boxes as a Barragán tribute.

Five Great Ideas

1. Maximize expansive views with a nearly wall-less outdoor dining room.
2. Use built-in seating (like the reflecting pool ledge) to minimize furniture and create a clean, modern look.
3. Draw color schemes from real life—a flower, leaf, or fabric—then match paint.
4. Test bold paint colors on large foam-core boards to see them in sun and shade at different times.
5. Unify a pot collection with varying sizes and shapes but consistent material and color tones.

Designer: Steve Martino & Associates, Phoenix (602/957-6150)