The basic construction is a timberframe structure with strawbale infill. The interior earthen plaster allows all the exterior walls some breathability. The ground floor is also earthen finished with natural oils and resins. With the embedded radiant tubing the floor acts as the perfect heat sink. The second storey floors are made from locally harvested lumber. Much of the timber used in the construction process was milled locally from trees removed in the clearing of the site for the home. The insulative value of the exterior strawbale walls(R45+) provides for low energy consumption in the winter months and exceptional passive cooling in the summer. All interior finishes are natural...from clay paints to earthern plasters to wooden floors and ceilings to flagstone and handmade tile finishes. All exterior doors were custom built and handmade on site.
This exquisite custom built timberframe and strawbale home is nestled on 2 acres in tall pines on a gentle slope in one of the most sort after areas of Taos. The home is Northern New Mexico Territorial style with a pitched propanel roof framing large second storey dormers. There is an extensive wrap around 800sqft portal,covering a custom flagstone base, and looking out over a beautiful terraced perennial garden. A craftsman style breezeway covers the entry to the home. This home combines all the features of green building with the conveniences required of modern living. The open plan kitchen contains stainless steel appliances, maple butcher block counters,custom built cabinetry and central island, and English farmhouse style porcelain sink. There is also a dining area with custom built dining table and strawbale bancos/seating area. Incredible views to the west from both the kitchen and main living room, which extends to a 21'peak. All ceilings are tongue and groove spruce throughout. This room also contains a kiva style fireplace, built ins and custom french doors opening to the portal and gardens. The earthen floors are traditional in this region and sealed with oils and resins. The walls are finished to a high standard yet retain the organic feel of the earthen plaster and clay paints utilized. The large master suite downstairs also opens onto the portal and gardens via hand built french doors. The adjoining bathroom contains a large corner jacuzzi tub and shower with flagstone surround, and built in linen storage. The second bedroom upstairs has wood plank flooring, dormer view windows, built in book shelves and closets, and another full bath with Jacuzzi tub and shower. Both bathrooms contain handmade tile accents as does the kitchen. There is also a large loft(25'x14') accessed by a custom built wooden spiral staircase, that could serve a multitude of purposes from a yoga/meditation space, to an office, to a third bedroom/bathroom or simply a luxurious den. There are artistic details throughout including 'nichos' truth window, interior timberframing, built in sound system, deep window sills, high ceilings. There is also a detached workshop, circular driveway and extensive hardscaping and landscaping, blending seamlessly with the abundance of nature surrounding this home.
The home is located in an exclusive and highly desirable neighborhood. There are no visible neighbors from the house which is set in tall pine and juniper trees in the foothills of the Taos mountain range. The location is very private and peaceful,with extensive views far to the west and the next mountain range. The local village,Arroyo Seco, is a few miles away and has a post office, several eateries and a health food store. This is the last village on the way to the world class Ski Resort at Taos Ski Valley only 15mins away. In general this area is pastoral and relatively undeveloped.Nature and wildlife abound.
The nearest city is Taos, the jewel in a high desert mountain plateau, famous for the deep gorge which houses the Rio Grande.Around 15mins to the south Taos boasts a thriving world class Art scene, a World Heritage Living site-The Taos Pueblo. Apart from the Skiing Taos is also known for its wealth of outdoor activities including river rafting, climbing,hiking,riding, and the annual balloon festival.There are numerous entertainment options including live music,an excellent selection of restaurants,and shopping for all tastes.The town also hosts its own annual film festival, and numerous arts and crafts fairs. All this combines to make Taos a unique tourist destination and place to live.
Arroyo Seco.
Rural
Mountain
Agriculture in Area | yes |
Industry in Area | no |
Air Pollution in Area | no |
Pesticide Free | yes |
Fragrance Free | yes |
Cleaned with Green Products | yes |
Heating System | Fireplace |
Cooling System | Passive Cooling |
Ventilation System | Part of Cooling System |
Whole House Filtration | None |
Whole House Vacuum | no |
Water System | Well |
Wastewater System | Septic System |
Construction Type | Straw bale |
Exterior Finish | Stucco |
Interior Finish | Earthen Plaster |
Interior Paint | Other |
Floor Material | Wood - Solid Other |
Roof Material | Metal |
Window Material | Wood Dual Glazed |
Insulation Material | Fiberglass Other |
Garage / Carport | no |
Garage Type | attached |
Number of Cars | 1 |
Listing ID : 18963