downing residence
4200 square feet | tucson, arizona
architect: ibarra rosano design architects
general contractor: repp + mclain design & construction
materials: split face masonry block, rusted steel, polished concrete, birch
The Downing residence, located in the Tucson Mountains, challenged our construction team to think creatively to successfully blend the rambling masonry pavilions into the sloping site while minimally disturbing the precious native desert. The project features a soaring steel butterfly roof over exposed masonry, concrete, and steel. Plywood ceilings and custom birch millwork is incorporated throughout. A project highlight is the floating steel powder room that emerges from the masonry mass, capturing sweeping city views. The house received an Honor Award from the Masonry Guild of Arizona for excellence in masonry construction.