On building one's own dream home as an 8-year desert odyssey

Fresh out of architecture school, Aaron wanted to test out his belief that with proper orientation and materials, he could build a home, even in the desert, without AC or heating. Land in Joshua Tree was inexpensive and relatively unencumbered by codes so after purchasing a lot, he was without the funds to construct his modern, passive solar design, so he began to build it all alone.

"When I got into it, I knew I was very particular, but I guess I didn't realize how much my expectations differed from typical contractors so I ended up building the whole place myself from driving the dozer, to excavate, to setting up the formwork, pouring the concrete whatever, the cabinetry, the wiring, the everything."

After eight years without contractors, sub-contractors or even daily helpers (except for 2 or 3 days "to lift a heavy beam" or the like), Aaron now owned a modern glass, concrete and stone home that worked with nature and passive solar design principles to stay cool in summer and warm in winter. Nearly all glass on the south side, and earth-bermed on the north, inside, the home is constructed with high thermal mass materials (concrete and stone) which trap the sun's heat in winter and hold the night's cool during summer days.

[brendajohnson]

"The site will tell you what you need to know." Best advice out there for building a home! Love this desert home!!

[hadjiperis]

This guy is a legend. He built everything on his own. The technical knowledge and experience you need to even start something like that on your own...omg.

[asianwoof]

It truly is amazing how few architects/designers ever have the stubbornness/drive to design/build their own home. Congratulations on this wonderful job.

[Hunter-idze]

I love how when he talks about his home you can see his mind working and his explanations flow so well. Truly a work of passion.

[sonalkumararya]

Having completed my 5 yr. degree program in 7yrs., watching this only makes me question like what am I, where do I even stand holding my degree in hand. Here is a person who has constructed a whole house in the middle of a desert by himself, starting from surveying, doing the excavation to pouring concrete, doing the interiors, furnishings...from 0 to absolutely 100%. I couldn't care less that the pouring was slightly off from expectation over the fire-place.

and all I know here is probably how to pull some lines on CAD softwares or fill colours on a sheet of paper, the shear audacity that I would call myself an architect.

Like always, great video Kirsten. Legendary work by Aaron in my opinion.

[gramirez]

This house is incredible, it's just WRIGHT for the site.

...and his undergrad was in classical guitar...?!?! People like him should be celebrated. Crazy gifted.

Thank you for featuring this house and this extraordinary

[badapple]

This is in the Top 10 for me out of every video on this channel. I absolutely love the FLW nod.
I love the imperfections in the fireplace feature wall! It adds character.

[kimberlyarmstrong]

Absolutely unreal! Wow!! Just fricking beautiful! Wow!
He’s a genius! My favorite type of house is indoor/outdoor living and obviously weather plays a part so this is top 5 of all homes I’ve ever seen. 😊❤

[sallysassa]

What talent. A pioneer who can do everything - a real survivor. Another great video thank you, Kirsten.

[ParadoxKismet]

This house is gorgeous. I love the slate. There is nothing wrong with the "flawed" concrete wall. It adds personality. Considering your environment is a must in the desert.

[barnstar]

Just finished watching the whole video, this guy really is insanely talented.

[allegrosotto]

I spent years living out in the desert, and yes, it's harsh and beautiful. My life there would have been so much better had I a house designed in this manner. Love what he's done.

[Cobecentral]

Such an amazing place and wonderful story. So glad you found this person and his piece of solitude in the desert.

[yarrlegap]

Brilliant. Aaron's also managed to show his talent as an architect in addition to all his other skills. A real genius.

[HARE]

What an absolutely beautiful, well designed, and functional house.
My favorite detail is the slate shingles on the walls. They add a touch of earthiness to otherwise drab concrete surfaces.
Thanks for another great video. I really enjoyed it.

[DaBiggBosz]

Profound. Best desert house video ever. And Aaron is pure joy to listen to.

[kyotokat]

Love it. Clean lines but cozy. Great use of space. And the craftsmanship is awesome.

[seld]

I really enjoyed this/The homeowner and his beautiful home. Most interesting person I have seen in a long time.

[deezynar]

The house is a great take on the Wright inspired houses from the '40's and '50's. He did a great job, it looks fantastic. He said he spent time at Arco Santi, a place designed by one of Wright's students, so this guy's proclivity for Wright's style is probably shown by that decision.

[OHSTN]

Excellent home. The passion he put into it and continues to get out of it is amazing.
Thanks for sharing