Tag: Santa Fe

Palo Santo Designs Featured in Modern Home Builders Magazine’s February 2025 Issue

Posted on by JeanneAdmin

Santa Fe, NM — April 17, 2025 — Palo Santo Designs is honored to announce its feature in the February 2025 issue of Modern Home Builders magazine. The article highlights the company’s commitment to sustainable design, innovative building practices, and its role in shaping the future of eco-conscious architecture in the Southwest.​

Modern Home Builders is a premier publication that delves into the vital aspects of contemporary home construction, including materials, labor, design, interior and exterior finishes, and emerging trends like energy efficiency and smart home technology. The magazine caters to industry professionals, offering insights from business leaders and spotlighting the successes of leading firms in the North American home building sector. ​hubblehomes.com+2Modern Home Builders magazine+2Muck Rack+2hootbio.com+2Muck Rack+2Modern Home Builders magazine+2

In the feature, Modern Home Builders explores Palo Santo Designs’ unique approach to blending traditional Southwestern aesthetics with modern, sustainable building techniques. The article discusses the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship, use of locally sourced materials, and innovative design solutions that meet the evolving needs of homeowners.​

  • A modern patio with cushioned chairs surrounds a rectangular fire pit; a covered dining area with more chairs is in the background against a desert landscape at dusk.
  • Modern outdoor patio by Palo Santo Designs, featured in Modern Home Builders Magazine, with four chairs around a rectangular fire pit, gravel ground, and large glass doors leading into a well-lit interior.
  • Modern dining room with a wooden table set for six, blue chairs, abstract wall art, and a large window overlooking the outdoors—Palo Santo Designs featured in Modern Home Builders Magazine.

“Being featured in Modern Home Builders is a testament to our team’s hard work and our commitment to sustainable design,” said Mark Giorgetti of Palo Santo Designs. “We’re proud to be recognized for our efforts to create homes that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible.”​

The full article can be read in the digital edition of Modern Home Builders magazine: Modern Home Builders magazine

About Palo Santo Designs

Palo Santo Designs is a Santa Fe-based design-build firm specializing in sustainable, high-performance homes that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Southwest. With a focus on environmental responsibility and innovative design, the company creates custom homes that are both timeless and forward-thinking.​

About Modern Home Builders Magazine

Modern Home Builders is a leading publication that covers the contemporary home construction industry. The magazine provides in-depth reporting on materials, design, technology, and trends, serving as a valuable resource for professionals in the home building sector.​

Choosing the Right Architect:

Posted on by JeanneAdmin

A Step-by-Step Guide

Selecting the right architect is essential to turning your vision into reality. Whether you’re planning a new home build, a renovation, or a commercial development, choosing an architect who aligns with your goals can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.

Spacious attic room with a light wood floor, white walls, a ceiling fan, and various seating areas. Decor includes plants, toys, and a small desk. Large windows provide natural light.

1. Define Your Project Scope and Budget

Before contacting architects, clarify your project goals.

  • Identify your top 2–5 priorities (e.g., “3-bedroom, 2-bath home with mountain views”).
  • Establish a realistic budget range early. Contact us if you would like help with this.
  • Consider your timeline and any must-have design features.
  • Having clear goals ensures your architect can deliver a design that fits your vision and budget.

2. Research Potential Architects

Find architects who specialize in projects like yours.

  • Browse online portfolios and project galleries.
  • Look for professionals with experience in your preferred architectural style.
  • Check for licenses, credentials, and professional affiliations.
  • Read reviews and testimonials to gauge client satisfaction.

3. Consider the Design-Build Approach

Design-Build offers a unified solution for design and construction.

  • The architect and builder work together under one company.
  • Improves communication, reduces costs, and speeds up the construction timeline.
  • Ideal for custom, complex or large-scale projects requiring precise coordination.

4. Schedule Interviews and Build Trust

Trust and chemistry are key to a successful project.

  • Set up initial consultations with your top choices.
  • Discuss your vision, goals, and expectations.
  • Evaluate their communication skills and how well they listen.
  • Trust is crucial—minor issues always arise, and a good relationship helps solve them smoothly.

5. Ask for References and Client Feedback

Past clients offer valuable insights.

  • Request contact info for at least 2–3 previous clients.
  • Ask about their experience, satisfaction with the outcome, and project challenges.
  • Inquire how the architect or design-build team handled communication and problem-solving.

6. Review Detailed Architectural Plans

Thorough documentation is essential.

  • Ensure your architect provides detailed floor plans, technical details, and  material specs.
  • Clear plans reduce the risk of cost overruns or misinterpretations.
  • Review all drawings carefully and don’t hesitate to ask for clarifications.

7. Assess Compatibility and Communication Style

Choose someone you feel comfortable collaborating with.

  • Communication should be open, responsive, and respectful.
  • Look for an architect who values your input and provides clear feedback.
  • Compatibility reduces misunderstandings and ensures smoother decision-making.

8. Understand Fees and Contracts

Transparency on cost and scope protects your investment.

  • Clarify how the architect charges:
    • Fixed fee
    • Hourly rate
    • Percentage of project cost
  • Review the contract thoroughly—look for clear terms, deliverables, and payment schedules.
  • Ensure all services and expectations are documented.

Conclusion: Build with Confidence

Choosing the right architect is about more than aesthetics—it’s about trust, communication, and shared vision. With a thoughtful approach and the right partner, your dream space is within reach.

Modern open-plan living area with a spiral staircase, brown leather sofa, glass dining table, and kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Large windows offer views of greenery outside.
A modern bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, two mirrors above a double sink, and a glass shower. A wooden ceiling and large window offer views of the outdoors.
Bedroom with wooden ceiling and large windows overlooking a garden. Features a bed with red and white bedding, two framed mirrors, and two lamps on wooden nightstands.

Ready to build your dream project?
Contact the expert Design-Build team at Palo Santo Designs.
📧 [email protected] | 📞 505-988-7230
Schedule your free consultation today!

Studios at Parkway Phase 1 Completed

Posted on by Beatriz Reyna

Introduction

Palo Santo’s flagship operation, the Studios at Parkway, Phase 1 is complete. This new commercial development is situated in Santa Fe’s burgeoning Siler Rufina District, a hotspot for arts and industry that is housed in one of Santa Fe, New Mexico’s Opportunity zone. All units in Phase 1 have been sold or are currently being leased.

Location Highlights:

  • Proximity to Key Attractions: The location is within walking distance from popular sites like Meow Wolf and the Rufina Taproom.
  • Business Park Adjacency: It’s right next to the bustling Richards Avenue Business Park, featuring over 100 small businesses.
  • Scenic Views: Although located in a commercial-industrial area, the development offers views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
  • Outdoor Amenities: The project is adjacent to city open spaces and trails along the old Acequia Madre.
  • Housed in one of Santa Fe, New Mexico’s Opportunity Zone

Phase 1 Details

Phase 1 is completed

  • 15 commercial condominiums, 1600 sf each
  • Contemporary, open floor plan move in ready
  • Ideal for small business owners and investors
  • Opportunity zone tax credits: Want to learn more? Check out our Instagram post (@PaloSantoDesignsLLC) with some key information about Opportunity Zone tax credits https://www.instagram.com/p/C8x1grCvI18/ and read about Opportunity Zone directly from the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/opportunity-zones
  • Priced competitively at $525,000, these units offer attractive Opportunity Zone tax credits.
  • All Units have been sold or leased in Phase 1

Phase 2 Plans

  • Phase 2, scheduled to break ground in Fall 2024, will add 14 more units with completion slated for Spring 2026.
  • Completion scheduled for spring 2026
  • Presales are currently underway, reserve your unit now. For more information on leasing, reach out to Leslie Giorgetti at [email protected].

Siler Rufina District: A Business Haven

The Siler Rufina District is vibrant and unique, home to an array of locally-owned small to medium-sized businesses. The area is peppered with restaurants, coffee shops, offices, light industrial workspaces, and warehouses. Studios at Parkway are Santa Fe’s newest commercial, industrial, flex-use development with units available for sale or lease in one of Santa Fe’s most prized Federal Opportunity Zones.  Studios at Parkway is located in a designated Federal Opportunity Zone has numerous investment and tax incentives for both the ownership of real estate and for business owners. 

The development is well positioned at 1189 Parkway Drive, directly adjacent to the thriving Richards Avenue Business Park which has over 85 successful and prosperous local businesses.  Studios at Parkway is within a short walking distance from the internationally acclaimed Meow Wolf, an immersive art and music venue that, along with playhouses, galleries and local restaurants and breweries such as the Rufina Taproom, Kakawa Chocolate House and Leaf and Hive makes these Studios an ideal business location.  Additionally, many residents are moving to the area with the development of the luxury apartments, Markana de Santa Fe, and the artist rental housing development at Siler Yards. 

  • Limited Leasing: While there are still some lease opportunities in the district, Studios at Parkway is one of the very few offering for sale.

Developer’s Vision: Palo Santo Designs

These new, Studios at Parkway are designed and built by Santa Fe’s award-winning Architecture and Construction firm, Palo Santo Designs. This firm has over 20 years experience in design and construction of unique commercial spaces and one of a kind custom homes. This development will feature a distinctive architectural design, quality construction and energy efficient building principles. Studios at Parkway will offer businesses a new meaningful and fresh environment to thrive in Santa Fe.

  • Ownership Opportunities: The Studios are intentionally designed to provide ownership opportunities for local small businesses.
  • Size and Price: With an approximate gross floor area of 1600 square feet and a pricing model targeted at owner-occupied businesses, the Studios at Parkway are poised to be a significant addition to Santa Fe’s business community.

For any inquiries or interest, do not hesitate to reach out to Leslie Giorgetti at [email protected] get purchase or lease yours today.


CONTACT US | OUR SERVICES

Coming Soon:  Completion of Phase 1 of the Studios at Parkway

Posted on by PaloSantoAdmin

Introduction

Palo Santo’s flagship operation, the Studios at Parkway, is presently under construction and set to be completed by January 2024. This new commercial development is situated in Santa Fe’s burgeoning Siler Rufina District, a hotspot for arts and industry.

Location Highlights:

  • Proximity to Key Attractions: The location is within walking distance from popular sites like Meow Wolf and the Rufina Taproom.
  • Business Park Adjacency: It’s right next to the bustling Richards Avenue Business Park, featuring over 100 small businesses.
  • Scenic Views: Although located in a commercial-industrial area, the development offers views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
  • Outdoor Amenities: The project is adjacent to city open spaces and trails along the old Acequia Madre.

Phase 1 Details

Phase 1 of this ambitious project is nearing its completion, and it will feature 15 new commercial condominiums designed in a boutique-industrial style.

Key Points for Phase 1:

  • Status of Units: All 15 units are currently under contract, pending sale upon completion.
  • Lease Opportunities: There are still leasing opportunities available for small businesses interested in this location.
  • Contact for Lease: For more information on leasing, reach out to Leslie Giorgetti at [email protected].

Phase 2 Plans

The next step, Phase 2, has 14 additional commercial condominiums in the pipeline and is close to receiving its required permits.

What to Expect in Phase 2:

  • Permitting: Scheduled to be processed very soon.
  • Groundbreaking: Expected to start in early Spring 2024.
  • Availability: Units will be available on the market in early 2024.
  • Pre-Sale Opportunities: Due to the rapid sell-out of Phase 1, prospective buyers are encouraged to contact us immediately for pre-sale opportunities.

Siler Rufina District: A Business Haven

The Siler Rufina District is vibrant and unique, home to an array of locally-owned small to medium-sized businesses. The area is peppered with restaurants, coffee shops, offices, light industrial workspaces, and warehouses.

  • Limited Leasing: While there are still some lease opportunities in the district, Studios at Parkway is one of the very few offerings for sale.

Developer’s Vision: Palo Santo Designs

Palo Santo Designs, along with its developer partners, has meticulously designed these commercial spaces to blend modernist aesthetics with practicality.

  • Ownership Opportunities: The Studios are intentionally designed to provide ownership opportunities for local small businesses.
  • Size and Price: With an approximate gross floor area of 1600 square feet and a pricing model targeted at owner-occupied businesses, the Studios at Parkway are poised to be a significant addition to Santa Fe’s business community.

For any inquiries or interest, do not hesitate to contact us as soon as possible.


CONTACT US | OUR SERVICES

Santa Fe Ranked #6 Best City in the World 2019

Posted on by Mark

Time and time again our great city of Santa Fe is ranked high for tourism and living. However, it’s not as frequent that we jump into the top 10 of worldwide destinations and snag the sixth spot among other notable places. 

Recently Santa Fe was voted the number six best city in the world by the Readers’ Choice Awards 2019 (Condé Nast Traveller). 

It came in just below other international cities, such as Tokyo, Dresden, and Merida. But we’re cheering because it landed at number six against some stiff competition. 

Why Do We Believe Santa Fe Is One of the Best Cities in the World?

#1 – The Great Outdoors 

Santa Fe is packed with tons to do outside. You’ll find everything from snow skiing to horse-back riding to balloon trips. The scenic area is packed with year-round outdoor activity. So it doesn’t matter what time of year you come, you’re going to find something great to do outside. It’s rare you can find this much to do outside elsewhere. 

#2 – The Art & Culture 

There’s no doubt Santa Fe scored high on this list because of the incredible art and culture of the city. Santa Fe is rich in native American history, which is evident in both the art and culture you can experience here. Everything from the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture to Georgia O’Keeffe’s legacy here in the area, there’s something so beautiful about the art and something so unique you won’t find elsewhere in the U.S. or the world. 

#3 – The Cuisine 

Red and green chiles are king here. The spice is real and people come to Santa Fe to get their taste of chile on just about anything. It’s truly unique to this area and you won’t find red and green chile sauce quite like it outside of the state. So, what makes a city one of the best in the world? Well of course it’s food, and we certainly have some of the best and the most unique in the world. 

#4 – The Architecture 

Touching on our niche, the architecture is one-of-a-kind here and connects perfectly with the surrounding landscape. You’ll find plenty of natural tones and materials throughout the structures in the city, with adobe style stretching from historic to modern and everything in between. Just as the other destinations in the top 10 of the list have one-of-a-kind architecture, so do we, and it’s truly different here in Santa Fe. 

Building In One of the Best Cities

If you’re intrigued by everything Santa Fe has to offer and might be considering relocating to this area, then we’d be thrilled to connect with you. 

We’re proud to be a design and build team under one roof delivering some of the best custom homes in such a thriving city. Building in Santa Fe is an absolute dream. And we’d like to be the ones to turn that dream into a reality for you. 

 

Palo Santo Designs Achieves Its 8th LEED Certified Home in Santa Fe

Posted on by Mark

We’re proud to announce our team received its 8th LEED certification for a another new home build, and the 5th at the Platinum level which is the highest level for LEED. 

What is LEED? 

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, which is a cornerstone here at Palo Santo Designs. We are committed to green building and sustainability in everything we do. 

LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world and provides a framework for us to design and build highly efficient, green homes. 

To achieve a LEED certification requires close adherence to efficiency in multiple categories—location, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials, indoor environmental quality, innovation, sustainable sites, and more. 

To receive the minimum LEED certification, a project must score at least 40 points within those efficiency categories. 

Not only did we score enough to become certified, we scored more than 80 points for this home build putting us at the Platinum level—the highest level of certification awarded. 

Our team is unmatched in the Santa Fe area in LEED certified home builds. We pride ourselves in being leaders in energy efficient and sustainable design and builds. 

We’re honored to achieve another Platinum certification, but beyond that we’re proud to be committed to such high levels of energy efficiency and sustainability in our projects.

Santa Fe Architect Spotlight – Sandra Odems

Posted on by Mark

We sat down with another one of our great architects here at Palo Santo Designs—Sandra Odems—to talk about her background in architecture, her favorite part of the whole process, and how she approaches architecture now in Santa Fe.

What Led You To Architecture?

For Sandra, it was her interest in drawing from a young age. “I remember (as a child) finding art books stacked near the road, next to someone’s trash, and thinking I had found treasure,” she says.

As she journeyed through high school she always chose art classes instead of foreign language classes.  Once she arrived at Tulane for college, she determined architecture would be a great path for her, one that would nurture her creativity and allow her to become a professional.

What Did You Do in Early Your Architecture Career?

For her college junior year abroad, Sandra studied at the Architectural Association in London, which had a strong emphasis on design.  After graduation she flip-flopped, and jumped into residential construction, getting her hands dirty learning how buildings are actually constructed here in New Mexico.

As a licensed Architect several years later, Sandra was involved in the construction of larger projects: schools, recreation centers and visitors’ centers across the state.  After ten years as a principal in a bigger firm, Sandra started her family and her own practice, with a new focus on residential architecture.

She also spent some time working with Ed Mazria and his team on The 2030 Challenge, which is an initiative that aims to reduce carbon emissions from the building sector by the year 2030.

Sandra now has 15 years of experience in residential design & construction in addition to approximately 10 years of experience working in the public sector.

What Brought You to Santa Fe?

“I’m originally from New Orleans,” Sandra says, but she landed in Santa Fe after considering options in other areas of the country and moving around a bit.  Sandra initially moved to Taos with her husband. They began building houses together in the area and learning construction.

“We were young and it seemed cool.” Sandra says.  About a year later, they moved to Santa Fe together to pursue larger projects and decided to stay.

Sandra says they fell in love with Santa Fe because of the beauty of the area, the clean air, and outdoor activities.  She and her family enjoy skiing, hiking and sailing on the NM lakes as much as possible.

How Do You Approach Architecture & Design of Custom Homes?

Sandra says it’s a lot about context: the owner, the site, tangible and intangible items.

“You’re always looking for something unique – something special that the client brings to the table – that inspires the project.” she says. For Sandra, it’s about being a great listener, and figuring out what is significant and important about each project.  Then it’s about transforming what’s heard into something that can be built.

It’s also about creating a connection to the outdoors, especially here in Santa Fe where the climate is comfortable and enjoyable.

Sure, modernism influences design and trends, but sometimes it’s also about designing buildings to be timeless; something that isn’t so dated.  That’s a real accomplishment.

But at the end of the day… what Sandra mostly wants is for a project to be successful for the client.  Success defined on their terms, because she has listened to them and created a building that they can enjoy for years to come.

What’s Your Favorite Part of the Design-Build Process?

“I love the day-to-day coordination with engineers and just getting it right,” Sandra says.

The complexity of the design and construction is exciting to her. It’s everything from the big vision to the tiniest of details—the daily push forward to a great finished project.

At Palo Santo Designs, Sandra is pleased to work with a team of people committed to thinking everything out and putting together a great project for each client.

What Are Some of the Unique Solutions You Deliver to Clients?

“I’m always thinking about daylight and energy-efficiency, and context, and how these things can come together,” she says.

Palo Santo Designs is committed to projects that are energy-efficient and it’s also second nature for Sandra since she’s been working on energy-efficient design and construction since the early 1990s.  “I was doing green design long before it was trendy”, she says.

Sandra is also a LEED certified professional.  It’s everything from the orientation of a home for natural light to envelope design and efficient systems. “We like to consider all of this,” Sandra says, but we understand that each client has their own goals and needs in their home.

All-in-all, Sandra is passionate about architecture and loves walking a project from design to build with careful attention to detail throughout the process.  

What Makes Santa Fe’s Architecture Different, Especially in 2019?

“I love that in Santa Fe we have both contemporary and traditional styles.  Contemporary is just starting to gain in popularity, but there is a big push happening right now in this direction.” Sandra says.

She loves the historic quality of the area and the City’s commitment to historic preservation – and a desire on the part of the community to continue to blend architecture into the earth, but she also appreciates and enjoys designing contemporary buildings.

It’s not a greater appreciation for one or the other. It’s an appreciation for how both can exist side-by-side, and in doing so, create a place that is comfortable and exciting.  Old and new, together.

How Modern Architecture is Mixing with the Traditional Architecture in Santa Fe

Posted on by Mark

Modern architecture refers to an overarching movement and design that emerged in the Western world at the turn of the 20th century. 

This architectural style was popular for universities, government buildings, and residential homes. 

Modern architecture brought about:

  • Clean lines 
  • Plenty of glass for natural light 
  • Broad roof overhangs 
  • Well-defined, rectangular forms
  • Modern materials and systems, such as steel, exposed concrete, column-free spaces, and radiant floor heating

As you may infer, modern architecture is quite the opposite of the traditional adobe Santa Fe style. Since adobe style is meant to mimic the land and environment around it, the style contains more earth tones and rounded features versus the more angular approach of modern architecture. 

A Mix of Architecture Begins

Santa Fe stayed true to its traditional theme well into the 21st century. The city has long been a tourist destination due to its unique architectural style: rounded walls, muted colors, small windows.

Strict building codes in Santa Fe ensures that this aesthetic is maintained throughout the city’s central district. But many modern home buyers prefer a different approach to Santa Fe’s traditional architecture. 

Now, the city’s less regulated areas have experienced a new wave of modern homes, with steel and glass materials dotting Santa Fe’s landscape, and homes with angles versus a rounded finish. 

Builders and architects in Santa Fe believe that the shift towards more modern styled buildings coincides with the increasing admiration for contemporary art in the city.

Modern art galleries have been set up in notable areas like the Railyard district, just outside of the city’s heavily regulated central districts. This has given contemporary artists the platform they need to put their creativity to good use.

The Historic District Review Board in Santa Fe is responsible for regulating the construction of new buildings, exterior alterations to existing buildings, and the demolition of buildings. This jurisdiction covers Santa Fe’s five historic districts, which makes up 20% of the city. In these districts, building codes are strictly applied. For instance, windows must be a maximum of 30 inches diagonal.

Tradition Meets Modernism in Santa Fe

While many potential homeowners are attracted to Santa Fe for its unique landscape, they want homes that reflect a more contemporary aesthetic: 

  • Bright spaces with plenty of natural light
  • High-efficiency features
  • Low environmental impact

Palo Santo Design LLC – an award-winning general contractor and architecture/design firm – is committed to meeting this need. Our goal is to provide custom homes, renovations and commercial spaces that meet the highest standard of craftsmanship, high efficiency, with personalized project management tailored to the unique needs of each client.

We understand the dramatic shift in demands in Santa Fe, with a steadily increasing demand for contemporary buildings and energy efficient features, which bring about more modern touches.  

However, we also realize that today’s prospective homeowners in Santa Fe desire homes that integrate traditional features such as curbless shower stalls and wider doorways into contemporary styled buildings. This is why our “soft contemporary” custom homes are designed to have a traditional adobe, yet modern feel.

Exotic woods, glasses, metal and glints of stone contribute to the contemporary feel in Santa Fe even when they are styled in plastered interior walls and a coated exterior. 

Santa Fe’s architecture continues to stand out and attract tourists from different parts of the world. As a result, our approach at Palo Santo Design LLC focuses on ensuring the right mix of tradition and modernism based on what our clients want. 

Yes, we are able to meet the city’s strict building codes as well as provide homes that are energy efficient and modern for our clients.

 

Why You Should Hire A Santa Fe Home Builder & Architect Together

Posted on by Mark

If you’re researching to build a home in Santa Fe and are wondering how to start and what’s involved in the process, then we want to provide some insight here. Building a custom home isn’t a small project and we don’t want it be a poor experience for you, which is why we want you know everything up front.

So let’s take a dive into what the traditional process for building a custom home is like and how our design-build approach is designed to make that experience better.

Understanding the Traditional Client-Architect-Contractor Relationship & Process

When it comes to building a custom home, the traditional relationship looks like a triangle with the client at one point, architect at one point and general contractor at the last point. Typically, the client would approach an architect to initiate the conceptualization and design of the project.

The triangle represents the traditional client – architect – contractor relationship. The dot represents how we’re innovating this relationship by bring everyone together as one firm.

It’s important to note that a general contractor is not involved in the initial discovery phase or even the design phase of the project, based on the traditional relationship. Selecting a general contractor only comes after the design is complete.

The selection of a general contractor typically goes through a bid process where multiple contractors bid on the project with the most expensive bids being tossed to the side and the more affordable bids fighting for the job. This, of course, is a race to the bottom in terms of price alone.

In some cases a design is kicked back to the architect for a re-design because the contractors cannot build the designed home at a price the owners can afford. It is simply too lofty of a design for the budget.

Redesign can be a very costly experience, and can add many months to a project timeline…unnecessarily, in our opinion.

Why Is the Traditional Relationship is Often Not the Best Approach?

As we mentioned, while all three points of the triangle must be involved to complete a home build, the traditional relationships are siloed from each other. To explain this better, let’s take a look at a real-life example:

Reasons Why the Traditional Client-Architect-Contractor Relationship is Flawed:

#1 – No matter how talented an architect is and how much they know, if they are not working with a builder from the beginning of a project then there is information they will not know and anticipate. Materials, labor, and the environment all constantly change, which directly affects costs and completion. The builder knows that information and can inform the architect but only if the architect is working with the builder from the beginning.

#2 – With the traditional process, expectations are not appropriately set. Again, an architect will surely provide a beautiful design and capture what the client is dreaming of. However, if all of the other building factors are not considered then the client is getting their hopes up for something that may not be a reality. These expectations can crush a project.

#3 – In most cases, 50-75% of custom builds that start in with the traditional relationship end up having to go back through the redesign phase because of unanticipated factors, such as material and labor costs, and other factors Again, a redesign often costs the client more money and immediately delays the build process.

#4 – The traditional approach often focuses primarily on the artistic perspective with little or no focus on cost implications.. As we like to say “our goal is to design to your budget, so that your dream home will become a reality.” This approach is not exclusive of aesthetic focus, but is an informed approach emphasizing the aesthetic in the most cost effective ways possible. So understanding all of the building factors influences the design we create rather than  working backward.

#5 – After a design is ready for contractors to bid on, it becomes all about hitting the budget that is often too low for the scope of the design, which causes a race to the bottom with contractors. Typically, the best builders are tossed out in the beginning because their bid is too “high,” although realistic. In this scenario, you have a beautiful design but a contractor trying to cut costs as much as possible to hit a budget. This is not a recipe for a successful and wonderful build for the client.

#6 – In some cases, a design may never be financially attainable for the client. They have hopes and dreams for a particular home, and while an architect can design the home, it may not be feasible at all for the set budget.

How We Approach Architecture & Home Building in Santa Fe:

Like we mentioned at the beginning, we are innovating this relationship simply by bringing architecture and contractors under one roof and on one team here in Santa Fe.

Since we can collaborate as designers and builders from the very first day, we can overcome the majority of pitfalls that occur in the traditional process. What does this look like?

  • Expectations – we can set the right expectations from day one. No designs that won’t fit an actual budget. We can take your budget and dreams and create a realistic expectation.
  • Financially Attainable – you have a set budget and dream for your home. We take both and create a plan that is attainable financially versus starting with a grand design that cannot be built for your budget. It’s our goal to make your dream a reality and attainable for you.
  • Land/Lot Real Estate – we can assist you in locating and purchasing a lot that suits your goals and avoids many issues that may affect budget and timeline, such as soils, topography, utilities and jurisdictional restrictions. We can effectively prevent redesigns and delays in the design-build process, which saves you money and gets you into your home on time.
  • Compliance – our goal from the moment we start discovery with you is to chart a path of compliance so your project complies with everything needed, such as ordinances, jurisdictions, easements, utilities, and beyond.
  • Truly Design and Build – some firms claim to be a design/build firm but they actually hire an outside architect to come in for a project. We don’t do this. We are truly a design-build firm because we have the architect and builders on the same team here at Palo Santo Designs. We are committed to not only designing you a beautiful home but influencing your project from the beginning with true building knowledge.
  • Sustainability –  because of our extensive experience and expertise in the design and construction of high performance green homes, you can be assured that the design will include numerous fundamental energy and water efficiency features, passive solar design and otherwise environmentally preferable materials and methods.  Sustainability is our baseline, not an add-on.

Palo Santo Designs on Parade

Posted on by palosanto

With the 2016 Olympic Games still in full swing, it’s worth remembering the idea that athletes compete at their best when they’re performing in an arena that includes the most skilled opponents. At Palo Santo Designs, we are proud to be among a community that represents some of the nation’s most talented architects, designers and home builders.

This undoubtedly has helped keep our own “game” at its best. In this year’s 24th annual Haciendas…A Parade of Homes, organized by the Santa Fe Area Homebuilders’ Association, Palo Santo Designs has enjoyed the great privilege of showcasing not one but two of our homes — and we are thrilled that the effort we invested in them has garnered recognition with several awards.

Our home at 9 Via San Martin, in the Tano Road area, earned the coveted award for Best Craftsmanship. This 2,900 plus-square-foot Northern New Mexico-style luxury hacienda, with pitched roof and exposed beams, is made up of three separate structures interconnected by flagstone and moss rock hardscaped outdoor spaces that capitalize on the beautiful natural surroundings and mountain views. 

Inside, various floor finishes inside include black walnut and polished concrete, providing an aesthetic contrast to the stone fireplace and countertops and custom cherry cabinetry.  Furthermore, the hand troweled diamond finish plaster is exemplary of Northern New Mexico traditional craftsmanship. Maximizing its overall efficiency and reducing its ecological footprint, the home is super-insulated and features a rainwater-harvesting irrigation system.

Our home at 1841 Cristobal Lane, in Santa Fe’s Museum Hill Estates neighborhood, scored top honors in three categories, with awards for Best Outdoor Living Space, Best Water Efficiency, and Best Energy Efficiency.

This 2,077 square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath Pueblo Revival-style home features contemporary accents and ample outdoor living areas that likewise capitalize on the magnificent mountain views. The inviting landscape design was a collaboration with Serquis+Associates Landscape Architecture, and exemplifies water conscious xeriscaping including native species and permeable hardscaping utilizing native stone and adobe. 

The home’s energy is provided by its roof-mounted photovoltaic system that generates 4.5 kilowatts of electricity, the home can produce nearly as much of its own energy as it consumes from the grid, and features an electric car charger for true solar powered driving. 

As for its water conservation features, the home is topped with a roof designed to capture and utilize all rainfall for the outdoor landscape irrigation as well as re-use within the home for toilet flushing, furthermore, the landscape is also nourished by a graywater system that reclaims wastewater from showers, laundry and bathroom sinks.

We encourage anyone interested in seeing these two luxurious custom homes as well as the many other fine homes on the Parade lineup to do so during this forthcoming weekend (August 19 – 21), which marks the second and last chance to check them out. Tickets can be purchased online through the Lensic or at each house during the event itself. The homes can also be seen for free during Friday’s Twilight Tour from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

New to Santa Fe? Here Are 7 Great Things To Do

Posted on by palosanto

Santa Fe is filled with exciting things to do. Did you just move to town? Are you visiting for the weekend? Today, we’re highlighting 7 great things to do when you’re new to Santa Fe, New Mexico.

1) Soak Up Culture on Canyon Road

For most Santa Fe visitors, Canyon Road is the first and last stop on the tour. It’s the center of Santa Fe’s artistic spirit and is home to commercial galleries, public museums, and other attractions that will appeal to art lovers.

Canyon Road can be found just east of the Santa Fe Plaza. Keep an eye out for artwork by renowned artists like Fernando Botero. Or, shop around for treasured cultural artifacts like Navajo rugs and Southwestern wood carvings.

The best way to soak up Canyon Road is to just walk down the street. The street is an art exhibit in itself: walking down the street, you’ll cruise past adobe buildings laced with brilliantly-colored flowers. You’ll smell the spicy odor of chili peppers wafting from the doorways of world-class restaurants.

Aim to spend 2 to 4 hours on Canyon Road. Parking in the area can be a hassle as the streets in the surrounding area are narrow. Look for the free Santa Fe Pick-Up shuttle stops nearby to save yourself a lot of headaches. 

2) Explore Santa Fe Plaza

Santa Fe is one of the oldest cities in America. Founded all the way back in 1607, Santa Fe’s history began right under your feet at the Santa Fe Plaza.

The Plaza has been Santa Fe’s cultural hub ever since. Over the years, it’s played host to bullfights and fandangos. Today, it’s surrounded by historical buildings like the Palace of the Governors and the San Miguel Mission.

Walk around Santa Fe Plaza. Discover Santa Fe’s history. Explore the Plaza at night to find a place teeming with activity. Eat at some of the restaurants, walk through galleries, and peruse Native American artifacts – but be careful not to overspend on some of the inflated trinket prices.

3) Discover the Palace of the Governors & the New Mexico History Museum

Located just off Santa Fe Plaza, the Palace of the Governors was built the same year Santa Fe was founded – 1610. It was the original capital of New Mexico and is also renowned for being the site of the only successful Native American uprising, which took place back in 1680.

Walk through the adobe building to explore 400 years of our state’s history. Learn about the Santa Fe trail and view an altarpiece made in 1830 for a church in Taos.

The New Mexico Museum of History and the Palace of the Governors are both open every day from 10am to 5pm Tuesday through Sunday (open Mondays in the summertime). New Mexico residents pay $6 and out-of-state visitors pay $9, while children 16 and younger enter for free. Admission is also free on Fridays between 5pm and 8pm.

If you’re really interested in learning more about the city’s history, consider booking a walking tour through the New Mexico History Museum. It takes you to more historic spots around town.

4) Peruse the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Santa Fe is famous for its artists, and no artist is more famous in Santa Fe than Georgia O’Keeffe. O’Keeffe moved to Santa Fe from the East Coast and quickly became inspired by the high desert surroundings. Before long, she was known as one of the greatest artists to ever live in the Southwest.

Even if you have just a minor love of art, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is a must-visit while in Santa Fe. It’s home to over 1,000 O’Keeffe creations, including drawings, paintings, and sculptures along with 2,000 other works by her peers.

5) Experience Meow Wolf

Meow Wolf is a recently-opened art exhibit that’s difficult to describe. Essentially, it’s a walkthrough art exhibit packed with multimedia presentations. Here’s how the artists describe their renowned attraction:

“Our work is a combination of jungle gym, haunted house, children’s museum, and immersive art exhibit. This unique fusion of art and entertainment gives audiences fictional worlds to explore.”

It’s an immersive experience that really has to be seen to be believed. You can’t really describe it: you just have to see it for yourself the next time you visit Santa Fe.

Meow Wolf also has rotating exhibits taking place throughout the year. Visit their official website to check what’s going on this week.

6) Go Skiing

New Mexico may be a desert, but Santa Fe sits at 7,199 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest cities in the United States. That means ski hills and snow are only a short trip away from downtown in the winter.

There are four main ski hills within a two hour drive of Santa Fe. The closest option is Ski Santa Fe, which is just 15 miles northeast of the city. Other options include Pajarito Mountain Ski Area and Sipapau Ski and Summer Resort, both of which are about an hour away.

If you want to travel a little farther, then Taos Ski Valley is probably the best ski hill in the state. It’s home to more varied terrain and a larger ski area. It’s a 2 hour drive away but locals will tell you it’s worth getting up early. 

Many of New Mexico’s ski resorts get up to 300 inches of snow every year. If you’re in the area in the winter, you can enjoy nice weather in town while still enjoying world-class skiing on the peaks.

7) Hike Bandelier National Monument

Located just a few miles west of Santa Fe, Bandelier National Monument is an outdoor mecca for Santa Fe residents. The area is home to 30,000 acres of backcountry wilderness along with 60 miles of hiking trails. It takes about an hour to drive there from Santa Fe, but it’s a great way to spend a weekend exploring.

History buffs will get a kick out of Bandelier National Monument. The base of Frijoles Canyon has a collection of ancient cave dwellings and other stone structures that originally belonged to New Mexico’s Pueblo people. Visitors are free to explore the settlement and follow the paved trail through the village.

7 day passes to Bandelier National Monument cost about $20.

We’ve only hinted at the number of great things there are to do around Santa Fe, New Mexico! We’re surrounded by nature, history, art, and culture in our beautiful city and that means there’s never a shortage of things to do.

9 Things to Know About Settling in Santa Fe

Posted on by palosanto

Is Santa Fe a Good Place to Live?

Santa Fe is a desirable location to settle because of the rich culture, great population size of around 83,000, jaw-dropping scenery around the city, and delicious cuisine throughout the area.

There’s a reason they call us “The City Different”: life’s a little different here. 

Whatever it is that makes Santa Fe different, we’re truly living in the gem of the desert. Here are 9 things to know about moving to Santa Fe:

1) The Altitude of Santa Fe

Santa Fe sits at an elevation of 7,198 feet, making it the third highest city in America. Only Leadville, Colorado and Mammoth Lakes, California have higher elevations than Santa Fe (not counting towns with fewer than 1,000 people) – and both those cities have significantly lower populations than Santa Fe.

To put that altitude in perspective, the “Mile High City” of Denver sits at just 5280 feet – and residents of that city love to complain about altitude sickness.

In any case, the altitude of Santa Fe means the air will be thinner and drier. [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][The altitude also means cooler temperatures.  Although we are firmly situated in the arid southwest, The climate in Santa Fe is nothing like that of Phoenix or Las Vegas. Average temperatures in the summer months are in the mid-80’s with temperatures rarely getting above the mid 90’s.  Cool dry air in the evenings means summer time lows in the high 50 to mid 60’s]  If you’re used to living at sea level, then you may need a few days to adjust. However, don’t get too worried about the altitude: Santa Fe is nowhere close to the highest cities in the world, and millions of people safely live at altitudes higher than Santa Fe with no problem. Visitors will talk about the altitude far more than locals. It’s something you don’t really think about after living here for a little while.

2) We Take Pride in Santa Fe’s Cultural Heritage

Santa Fe is one of America’s most cultural cities. First, we inspired one of our country’s best-known artists, Georgia O’Keeffe, which is why we’re now home to the world-famous Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.

Santa Fe is also home to other cultural mainstays like the Santa Fe Opera (which is world famous), the Santa Fe University of Art and Design, and over 250 art galleries.

If you’re looking for artistic inspiration or just appreciate the arts, then Santa Fe’s rich cultural background gives you plenty of reasons to love our city.

3) You’re Only 35 Minutes Away from the Ski Hill

Santa Fe is surrounded by 12,000 foot peaks. Skiing is a big draw in the region. You’re only 35 minutes away from Santa Fe Skin Basin in most parts of the city. Skiers and snowboarders frequently praise Santa Fe’s Tesuque Peak (12,000 feet) as having some of the best skiing in the country.

If you feel like driving a little further, Taos Ski Valley and Red River are both about 2 hours north of the city and offer some of the country’s best skiing. They’re famous nationwide.

Ultimately, there’s no shortage of skiing options around Santa Fe in the winter.

4) We’re Surrounded by Mountains

Hiking and biking opportunities are all around you in Santa Fe, NM. Santa Feans are famously outdoorsy: whether we’re climbing, biking, hiking, or just enjoying some sunshine outdoors, we love getting outside every day of the year.

As a testament to the outdoorsy nature of Santa Feans, Outside Magazine is headquartered in Santa Fe. No matter where you are in Santa Fe, you’re never too far of a drive from experiencing some of the best outdoor terrain our country has to offer.

5) Experience the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway and Enchanted Circle for World-Class Driving

Whether you’re taking a Sunday drive or doing some hiking, the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway originates in downtown Santa Fe’s Palace of the Governors (which is the oldest public building in America) and takes you 15 miles through ponderosa, spruce, fir, and aspen-filled terrain in the Santa Fe National Forest. The road comes to an end at the Santa Fe Ski Basin, where you can tackle some runs in the winter or go mountain biking in the summer.

Meanwhile, the Enchanted Circle takes you on a drive through the outskirts of Santa Fe, taking you around the mountains and making it easy to feel lost in the wilderness. The Enchanted Circle drive is particularly popular (and beautiful) on a sunny winter day when the sun is sparkling off the white snow.

6) We’re Rich with History

Santa Fe’s history goes back much farther than the United States. Centuries before America was a country, the region was populated by dozens of Native American villages. The Pueblo people trace their history in the region as far back as 900, when they built a village called Ogapoge in what is now downtown Santa Fe. They settled in the Santa Fe area for its easy access to the Santa Fe River. That village extended for half a mile around and was centered on the modern Santa Fe Plaza. 

The modern city of Santa Fe was officially founded when Spanish settlers arrived in the region in the 1600s, naming the city “Holy Faith” in Spanish. In 1610, Santa Fe was chosen as the capital of the Spanish province of Santa Fe de Nuevo Mexico in New Spain, and it has remained the capital almost consistently since.

Santa Fe also played a part in the Republic of Texas’s history, as Santa Fe was claimed as part of the western portion of Texas after it seceded from Mexico in 1836.

Many people are also surprised to learn that Santa Fe was involved in the American Civil War. As part of the New Mexico Campaign of that war, a Confederate flag was flown over the Santa Fe capitol building for a few days in March 1862.

[headquarters of the Manhattan Project was a small adobe hacienda on East Palace Ave, just a block off the plaza.  This was the clandestine office of the famous A-bomb project credited with ending WWII, in which the world’s preeminent physicists and engineers of the day were secretly sent to create the ultimate weapon. Today’s Los Alamos National Laboratory located in the mountain town of Los Alamos (45 minutes from Santa Fe) is the legacy of that project.]

Today, Santa Fe retains its title as the oldest state capital city in the United States. Signs of this history can be found all around town.

7) Don’t Forget You’re in a Desert

Santa Fe may be an outdoor mecca filled with skiing, hiking, biking, and cultural opportunities, but we’re still a desert. Don’t forget that!

If you’re new to the region, expect to encounter dry, flaky skin – especially in the bone dry winter months. You’re going to need lots of moisturizer and conditioner.

In the summer, don’t forget to lather up with sunscreen. At this altitude, it doesn’t take more than 20 or 30 minutes to get a noticeable burn under the bright New Mexico sun. Sunscreen isn’t something you “probably should wear” in Santa Fe: it’s something you need to wear.

8) You’re Only an Hour Away from Albuquerque

Albuquerque, with a population of about half a million people, is just an hour down the road from Santa Fe. So you’re never too far away from big city amenities.

Santa Fe does have its own airport (SAF), but you can often get better deals (and more international flights) out of Albuquerque. No matter why you need to visit the big city, there’s a reason why many Santa Feans have pretty much memorized the I-25 down to Albuquerque.

9) We Have Some of the Best Food in America

Whether you’re interested in some of the best burritos you’ll ever eat or you’d rather sit down at a charming local café, Santa Fe is famous for its food. Like most touristy towns, there’s a blend of popular restaurants and local hangouts, but you have plenty of places to eat no matter what you’re looking for.

Our city is also famous for its farmer’s market, including the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market (recently named as one of the top 10 in the nation), which operates year-round and provides locals with fresh food from over 150 active vendors.

Ready to settle in Santa Fe? Build your dream home in Santa Fe, New Mexico with the help of the award-winning homebuilders, designers, and contractors at Palo Santo Designs.

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