More About Querencia Architecture

Querencia’s style of architecture reflects and is inspired greatly by the warmth and character of the early style farm house of the Tuscan region. Based on this inspiration, the architecture of Querencia is defined, from a broad perspective, by simple massing arrangements and non- complex cascading, pitched roof solutions. Querencia’s architecture encourages the use of extensive native flag stone, both on the architecture itself, very often cladding entire architectural features, as well as on its surrounding and swirling retaining walls. The architectural interpretation in Querencia of both these concepts, simplicity and the use of stone, is derived from the early Tuscan villa sense of style.

This Tuscan inspired style of architecture achieves a building with a relaxed and casual feel to it. This sought after quality is further defined by many other design resources such as the use of mortar-less stone walls or “the crumbling wall,” the smooth stucco type plaster, incorporating wide rounded corners which convey hand-made craftsmanship. Also the clay roof tiles, installed with exposed grey mortar, provide a sought after robust character of longevity and the desired effects of the passage of time on the structure.

Elegance and refinement are added to the architectural concept in turn with the use of design resources such as elaborate quarry-stone sills, window frame moldings, stone caps and the extensive use of the iron forge. These buildings convey the warmth and character brought forth by the use of carpentry assemblies on its windows and the use of heavy-set timber beams, posts, trusses, and roof structures.

The buildings at Querencia bring forth layouts which encourage and promote an outdoor living experience. Their design seamlessly integrates indoors with the outdoors by means of verandas, courtyards, patios and overhanging structures, which provide a welcoming shade in the desert.

Extensive use of fountains and decorative water features are also basic and unique elements of the Querencia style of architecture. The use of these fountains, alongside feature rock formations, assists in setting the tone for the desert style landscape

Tuscan in some of its formal concepts, the Querencia style of architecture can nevertheless integrate and maintain successfully the charm and flavor of the Mexican villa. The use of these resources will help define a building which seems harmoniously anchored to the rugged desert range and maintain a design intention in harmony with the overall community.

Arturo Ponce de Leon
Director, Querencia Architectural Services