Fanning Residence

This home site on Albuquerque’s east side offered striking views of both the nearby Sandia Mountains as well westward to the City and beyond to Mt. Taylor some 80 miles distant.  A primary focus of the design was a 7% slope that resulted in a multi-level home fitting comfortably on the land, eliminating the need for extensive disturbance to surrounding native vegetation.

Two organizing elements, a central entrance courtyard, a feature common to early northern New Mexico homes, and a stepped gallery bisecting the home, are the core of this design.   The architect chose a focused approach to capture the drama of the location, selectively framing views in several directions.  The entrance opens to the gallery that extends northward to a dramatic view of Sandia Crest.  This space features specialized lighting that displays the Owner’s art collection.  The vaulted living room terminates in a large window framing a view of Bear Canyon to the east.  In addition to the larger entrance courtyard, a small courtyard on the east side accessed from the kitchen provides a sweeping view of the Sandias.  The home, while functionally modern, is clothed in the pueblo style typical of much of northern New Mexico.

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