Corten desert home overlooks some of the world’s most impressive rock formations

Locally sourced and crafted materials clad this remote desert home located outside Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park.

Covered with corrugated Corten steel, this cluster of small angular buildings was designed by Imbue Design to evoke the desert’s dusty and rugged character. The minimalist dwellings keep the attention on the landscape: large glazed openings frame unparalleled panoramic views of some of the most impressive rock formations in the world.

The Capitol Reef Dwellings comprise three standalone structures: a main residence, a guesthouse, and a small garage/studio. Built on a modest budget, the Corten steel-clad desert retreat has a minimalist aesthetic and prefers to sit lightly on the landscape to keep the spotlight on the desert. The main residence’s geometric shape and orientation optimize views of the region’s two most prominent rock formations.

The angled red-orange steel roofs mimic the desert’s red rock formations and provide a strong contrasting backdrop to the gnarled evergreen juniper trees. The corrugated Corten panels and cedar siding will develop an attractive patina over time. The minimalist light-filled interior features whitewashed walls and earth-toned furnishings.