In an arid region known for its traditional adobe architecture, American studio Mollhaus has created a home for an artist with exterior walls that are coated in earthen-hued stucco.

The Rodin Residence is situated in Taos, a picturesque town in northern New Mexico that has long attracted artists. The region is dotted with pueblo-style buildings made of mud bricks and plastered in stucco.
The new dwelling respects the area's traditional architecture while embodying a contemporary aesthetic.

"Having worked in the international art industry for the past 30 years, and an artist herself, the owner was very familiar with modern design," said designer Molly Bell, founder of local studio Mollhaus.
"Her own personal art collection helped drive the concept of the project ? a home with museum-like white walls, in which to display her collection, while also opening up to incredible 360-degree views."
Encompassing 2,300 square feet (214 square metres), the residence consists of stucco-clad rectilinear volumes organised around a courtyard. The home's broken-up massing was a response to the client's desire to have distinct enclosures for each domestic activity, rather than placing them all under one roof.
The designer incorporated ample glazing, except on the west, "as the sun coming from that direction in the afternoon can be unbearable", she explained.

The primary living space ? containing the kitchen, dining area and living room ? is situated on the...