The Franklin Mountains extend to the north end of El Paso like a peninsula of rocky wilderness into the urban landscape of the city. Rising 2500 feet above the Rio Grande river valley this mountain range is the southern tip of the Rocky Mountains set amongst the sands of the Chihuahuan Desert. The site is set in the foothills of the Franklins 800 feet above the city perched just above a small canyon with unobstructed views of downtown El Paso and Juarez to the south. The one-acre lot slopes up steeply to the east and is carpeted in lechuguilla agave. The views to the east and south will always be open as these sides border state park land. The west side opens to an expansive horizon and what will certainly be many, many beautiful sunsets.

As the raw and rugged native landscape comes down the hill and meets the masses of the house the land starts to feel more controlled and cultivated. The steep site becomes a series of terraces that catch and slows the flow of water and life here. This mountain side oasis becomes enriched with native succulents and cacti, aromatic herbs and flowers, beautiful plantings that are a source of aesthetic enjoyment for the outdoor living rooms and the second course to tomorrow night’s meal. A sustainable ecosystem on a small scale for a family that has turned a “hard” site into their sanctuary on the hillside.