Sunken Stone Fire Pit by Pool

Design notes

Desert and Southwest design is shade, earth and sky. Look for stucco or adobe in earthy tones, flat roofs with deep overhangs, decomposed granite and gravel instead of lawn, and planting of agave, yucca, saguaro, ocotillo, palo verde and desert wildflowers. Corten steel, concrete and rammed earth handle the sun; ramadas, shade sails and pergolas make midday usable; and lighting stays low so the stars can compete.

What to look for

• Conversation-distance seating all the way around
• Setback from structures, fences and branches
• A dry, lit path back to the house