Essential Features for an Ideal Desert Home

Charlie Barks

When envisioning the design of their desert properties, homeowners must take into account several important considerations. For those seeking to get the most out of their unique setting, let’s look at some key features of an ideal desert home.

Solar Energy

Residents in desert climates often deal with sky-high temperatures that can lead to considerable discomfort. Many invest significantly in HVAC bills to cool their homes during the warmest seasons. Implementing solar energy is a great way to save money while maintaining a comfortable indoor climate year-round. 

Watt A Lot

Desert-Themed Gardens and Landscaping

If you reside in a desert area, consider leaning into the aesthetic of your natural surroundings. Some homeowners invest heavily in gardens designed for different environments, resulting in high maintenance costs. A more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option is to create a garden tailored to thrive in the desert, featuring plants such as agave, aloe, and prickly pear.

Scott Lorsch

Natural Ventilation and Floor-to-Ceiling Windows

Ensuring homes remain comfortable despite temperature fluctuations is crucial for those living in a desert environment. Implementing natural ventilation enhances the overall airiness and coolness of your living space. Floor-to-ceiling windows with shutters not only provide incredible views but also contribute to cooler temperatures and reduced energy consumption.

James Day

Lighter Wall Colors

The color you choose for your home can significantly impact both its design and comfort. Opting for lighter shades, inside and outside your residence, helps maintain cooler temperatures and seamlessly blends with the natural landscape. Popular desert home color choices include pinks, rusty shades, and whites, steering clear of darker tones that absorb excessive heat. 

Pixasquare

Covered Outdoor Spaces

In desert locales, intense daytime heat doesn’t mean homeowners want to confine themselves indoors. A covered outdoor area, such as a deck with an overhanging roof, allows you to enjoy the warm temperature while seeking refuge from the sun. It not only creates a space for relaxation and entertaining friends but also ensures that the elements remain enjoyable rather than unbearable.

James Day

Swimming Pool

A place to cool off on a hot summer day is a coveted feature for homeowners across the country, especially in desert regions. A swimming pool not only provides the perfect way to beat the heat but also becomes a popular focal point, often surrounded by landscaping that creates an oasis-like vibe. 

James Day