Restoration and Addition, 1993

This historic fortified ranch, now converted into a guest house, dates from the 1870s. Its original purpose was to serve as secure quarters at a time when the plains outside were the scene of continuing warfare between Comanches and settlers in the area. The architect's charge was to accurately restore the fortified ranch house according to existing historic records. The decayed adobe walls of the house were restored and deteriorated wood beams were replaced. Damaged and missing window frames and doors were replicated based on Historic American Building Survey documents.

A light-colored 12,000 square foot adobe addition was built to enlarge the guest capacity of the complex. The transparency of the added wing, with open porches and large windows, contrasts sharply with the solidity of the fort. Porches made with cottonwood beams and split soffit strips, or latillos, filter the harsh sunlight of the region. The original irrigation system, called an acequia, was restored and extended to irrigate orchards and gardens.