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This award-winning remodel by Gayla Bechtol Architect honors the authentic hillside character of the Casa Roca, a historic preservation in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Our goal was to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of this adobe and rock house while updating it for modern daily life and eco-friendliness.
All the doors and windows were restored or rebuilt to match the existing ones, which maintains the integrity of the space and harmony with the surrounding neighborhood. We incorporated most of the old beams, adobe walls, and rock fireplaces.
Collaborating with the homeowners, the architect sought to make every room tell a story that fits the home’s original charm while creating a comfortable space to live, connect, and socialize.
Along with preserving the structure’s spirit, the architects added energy-efficient features: new roof insulation, insulated glass where possible, and high-efficiency furnaces and appliances. Strategically placed skylights brighten the home (and mood!) with natural light. The redesigned front portal curves around the house to create a welcoming feel, while an adobe wall provides privacy from the street.
A Historic Adobe Home Reborn for Modern Living
Above: This home beautifully reflects Santa Fe Style Architecture, with its earthy adobe walls, hand-carved wooden gate, and turquoise-framed windows that celebrate the region’s heritage.
Living Spaces That Honor Santa Fe’s Heritage
Above: This living space is a beautiful reflection of Santa Fe Style Architecture, where adobe walls and exposed viga ceilings create warmth and authenticity. The stone fireplace anchors the room, offering both function and charm, while the patterned textiles, handcrafted wood furniture, and earthy tones showcase the cultural richness of New Mexico’s historic traditions. Light filters gently through wood-framed windows, illuminating the handcrafted details.
A Kitchen Full of Color and Southwestern Soul
Above: This cozy kitchen and dining nook blends rustic charm with vibrant Southwestern character, featuring warm adobe walls, a ceiling of natural vigas, and a skylight that floods the space with sunlight. A round wooden table is surrounded by brightly painted chairs in red, blue, and yellow, adding a playful pop of color against the earthy tones. Handcrafted wood cabinetry, colorful tile backsplash with sunflower motifs, and traditional brick flooring create a welcoming, authentic atmosphere that perfectly reflects Santa Fe’s timeless design aesthetic.
Above: This cozy bedroom captures the essence of Santa Fe Style Architecture, where traditional Adobe Architecture meets modern comfort. The kiva fireplace, hand-laid stone walls, and exposed wooden beams reflect a deep commitment to historic preservation, ensuring the home’s original character remains intact.
Above: This inviting sitting area highlights the warmth of Santa Fe Style Architecture, where thick plaster walls, exposed vigas, and hand-painted tiles showcase the artistry of Adobe Architecture. The cozy transition into a room anchored by a stone fireplace reflects the thoughtful blending of tradition and comfort.
What We Love About This House
Casa Roca is a beautiful example of thoughtful historic preservation, where original adobe walls, rock fireplaces, and hand-hewn beams have been lovingly retained while updating the home for modern daily life. The way natural light pours through strategically placed skylights and wood-framed windows brings such warmth to every room. We especially love the colorful, handcrafted details throughout, from the painted chairs to the turquoise-framed windows.
Tell Us…
What details in this home do you find most appealing? Let us know in the Comments below. We love reading your feedback!
Note: If you are inspired by New Mexico’s distinctive design traditions, explore more homes from the region that we have featured here on One Kindesign: Santa Fe style home with Sangre de Cristo Mountain views and Charming Adobe-inspired home in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
PHOTOGRAPHER Scott T. Hanson
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