PORCHES OF THE DESERT: Thresholds of Civic Space for Connection, Resilience, and Community

Three models on plaster base with Sonoran Desert panorama: Acrylic, Copper Wire, Polylactic acid 3D Print and Plywood

Scale 1:100

Our work in the Desert Southwest explores the idea of “porch” through architectural design that connects people to the landscape, fosters social interaction, and embraces environmental sustainability. In this region, the “porch” becomes a symbolic space that balances the transition between the indoor and outdoor environment, reflecting the cultural and environmental context of the desert. Three representative projects respond to the call for entries by demonstrating how American architecture can embody the spirit of “on the porch” through design that fosters community, engagement, and environmental resiliency.

Asante Library incorporates an outdoor plaza with bench seating beneath shaded tree canopies, enhancing social interaction and community gathering. The thoughtful use of glazing connects interior spaces with the surrounding landscape, promoting a seamless blend between built and natural environments. The dynamic sun-filtering canopy on the building’s exterior enhances environmental resilience by controlling solar gain and evoking the experience of being sheltered under a desert tree, creating a “porch-like” environment that encourages communal engagement.

Desert Broom Library extends the idea of “on the porch” through its expansive roof, which creates shaded outdoor reading areas and a nurturing environment for learning. Its integration with the natural desert environment provides a transition between interior and exterior spaces, fostering a connection with the landscape. The use of colored glass and filtered light creates an inviting and ever-changing atmosphere, while the building’s thoughtful environmental design makes it an integral part of its community.

Sunrise Mountain Library is inspired by the landscape of Lake Pleasant and the surrounding mountains, the design reflects the spirit of connection found in traditional porches — a space that brings people together, fosters interaction, and offers a sense of belonging. The library’s expansive roofline mirrors the rolling waves of the lake, creating a visual connection to the region’s natural beauty. This design element also functions as a passive environmental feature, with its reflective aluminum surface helping to reduce solar gain during the intense summer months. The clearstories minimize the need for artificial lighting and enhancing the library’s energy efficiency.