Southwest Architect

The style of Southwest architecture was developed from both the Native American and the Hispanic traditions. The east-west alignment of the Pueblo homes ensured that the northerly walls protect against cold and wind, while the south-facing terraces and doorways trap the sun's heat, which was stored in the heavy massing of adobe walls. The use of natural building materials and environmental orientation reflected the unique method of the Pueblos. The built-up roof and minimal openings created by Navajo tribe maintained comfortable interior temperatures in both winter and summer. These qualities of Native American tribes inspired the Spanish settlers who entered the Southwest in the 16th century.

Variations of Southwest Style

A blend of Pueblo Revival and Spanish Colonial designs, there are more than one Southwest styles of architecture. The subtypes are:

1. Pueblo Revival - Influenced by Spanish and Moorish styles, the "adobe look" is often created with a base of concrete blocks; a wooden frame sheeted with plasterboard; or even stacks of things like straw bales, aluminum cans, or old tires.
2. Pueblo Deco - Southwestern artisans inspired by the art deco movement of the 1920s put together the forms of Pueblo and Spanish architecture with geometric decoration.
3. Santa Fe Style - A limitation of Pueblo Style created by the Santa Fe Historic Zoning Ordinance of 1957
4. Contemporary Pueblo - Ornate detailing of wooden posts and beams is removed to emphasis on the structural composition.
5. Territorial Style - A more angular variation of the Pueblo style. Corners are square instead of rounded, and windows are framed with straight wooden moldings.

Qualities of Southwest Style

The common feature of the Southwest Style homes is the adobe type construction with plastered wall surfaces. The elements of Southwest architecture are key to creating the most comfortable and beautiful architecture possible. These include:

• Flat roof with no overhang
• Stepped levels
• Earthy colors made of adobe
• Rounded parapet which serves as firewall
• Spouts in the parapet help direct rainwater
• Massive, round-edged walls
• Heavy timbers extending through walls which serve as main roof support beams
• Poles placed above vigas in angled pattern which form ceiling
• Simple, deep window and door openings
• Beehive corner fireplace
• Benches that protrude from walls
• Niches carved out of wall for display of religious icons
• Brick, wood, or flagstone floors

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