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A Modern Wood Pavilion Seamlessly Integrated Into California’s Joshua Tree

02.08.24 | By
A Modern Wood Pavilion Seamlessly Integrated Into California’s Joshua Tree

Industry of All Nations (IOAN) has unveiled The Landing House, a modern wood pavilion seamlessly integrated into the rugged Mojave Desert landscape, near California’s Joshua Tree National Park. In the vast expanse of the desert, where the landscape is both harsh and delicate, the home is an example of eco-sensitive design that not only respects but enhances the surrounding environment.

The Landing House begins with the Gerscovich brothers – Fernando, Juan Diego, and Patricio – whose passion for sustainable design led them to the awe-inspiring Mojave Desert in 2019. Struck by the beauty of the landscape and its natural light patterns, they envisioned a retreat blending into the untouched desert surroundings. After acquiring five-acres of land filled with iconic Joshua trees, natural boulders, and countless views, the brothers embarked on a mission to create a sustainable haven that respects the delicate ecosystem.

exterior shot of modern home with central covered patio with modern chairs in circle

Fernando Gerscovich, a Buenos Aires-born architect, emphasizes the importance of minimizing disruptions to the natural landscape. “The landscape is harsh, and it can take decades for a plant or tree to recover if displaced from its delicate ecosystem,” he says. The design philosophy revolves around integration, ensuring that The Landing House becomes a comfortable retreat without imposing on the delicate balance of the desert ecosystem.

partial exterior view of modern wood pavilion style house in desert

partial exterior view of modern wood pavilion style house in desert

The low-profile structure, the use of simple materials like concrete, cedar, and glass, and a commitment to natural aging contribute to the unobtrusive yet captivating presence of the pavilion.

end exterior view of modern wood pavilion style house in desert

Designed for privacy and tranquility, the home is reached via a 400-year private road that winds through the desert terrain to a 9-foot-high horizontal wall protecting the house. A Yucca tree marks the entrance, welcoming guests to the vacation rental, where they’ll discover endless, 360-degree views.

partial exterior view of modern wood house looking into bedroom with sliding glass door open

exterior shot of end of modern wood house in desert with bicycle propped against house

exterior view of modern wood pavilion style house in desert

exterior view of modern wood pavilion style house in desert with large doors opening to covered patio

The central breezeway divides the pavilion into two volumes on either side. “The division of the volumes was conceived as a way to sort of remind people of the natural beauty of their surroundings,” says Gerscovich. “It’s a subtle way of encouraging people to step outside, into nature, in the course of their movements through the house.”

exterior view of modern house with covered patio with modern wood chairs

The covered breezeway leads to a concrete platform with a plunge pool designed for relaxation. A second structure houses a solar-paneled carport, providing shade and renewable energy. A hand-carved fire pit in a natural boulder and a circular platform for yoga add additional spots to enjoy the natural surroundings.

exterior view in desert of concrete patio leading to circular pool with woman walking away

angled outside view of elevated concrete patio in desert with circular pool at end

down view looking at modern concrete outdoor patio with circular pool

outside shot in desert with large circular concrete patio with person sitting in center meditating

angled interior view of modern living space with sitting area and dining space looking out through large windows to desert

Two bedroom suites are located on each end of the pavilion with the breezeway connecting the two wings. One side includes the open living room, kitchen, dining space, and separate workspace. The opposite wing houses the second bedroom, named the Pool Suite, with its own private access.

interior view of modern living space with sitting area and dining space looking out through large windows to desert

interior view of modern minimalist kitchen

The interior is designed with cedar wall paneling, polished concrete floors, and white oak furniture resulting in a modern yet cozy space. Sliding glass doors open the living space up to the outdoors while offering views to the courtyard and pool.

partial view of modern minimalists bedroom with simple white bedding and circular window on far wall

partial view of modern bedroom looking out sliding glass doors to desert

partial view of modern bedroom looking to open closet

partial view of modern bedroom with window looking to cacti outside

angled interior view of modern bedroom looking out to patio with pool

partial view of modern platform wood sofa with orange leather cushions

twilight outside view of modern wood pavilion style house in desert

If you’re looking to escape to the desert to stay at The Landing House, it’s available for rent via Airbnb here.

Photography by Ye Rin Mok, courtesy of v2com.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.