Tucson Lifestyle Home & Garden and the Southern Arizona Chapter of the American Institute of Architects present the 2014 Homes of the Year. Home of the Year Pontatoc Remodel Ibarra Rosano Architects Photography by Bill Timmerman A challenging site condition was the impetus behind this project, which is both sophisticated and simple. The slope of the terrain required creativity and offered the opportunity for a striking cantilevered effect. The project responds to the environment by developing a rich sectional experience of being on, in and over the landscape while causing minimal imposition on the site. The home’s lower courtyard allows for natural light and visual connection to the outdoors from the lower bedroom and office. The residence exudes restrained elegance through its minimal palette and the richness of the layout. Honorable Mention Lava House Paul Weiner, DesignBuild Collaborative Photography by Liam Frederick This single-family residence was built on an undisturbed site offering panoramic views of the Tucson and Santa Catalina Mountains. The architect’s goal was to anchor the structure into the site’s geology and to weave its spaces between existing water courses and mature Sonoran Desert vegetation. This residence marks a significant step forward in the development of scoria (crushed volcanic cinders) as a mass material, in this case used to define the building envelope. Exterior spaces are captured under broad overhangs and further defined by low retaining walls. The home topped out at 2600 square feet plus a garage, and features solar electricity generation and a water harvesting and gray water system. Diane Jacobs, aia Holly Street Studio Maria salenger, aia Jones Studio Inc. ThaMariT sucharT, associaTe aia Chen + Suchart Studio