Whisper Rock draws its architectural inspiration from traditional American Southwest architecture and the diverse styles that inspired it. These include influences from Native American, Mexican, Old World European and Spanish Colonial cultures. In most cases, the buildings were ‘territorial’ in nature, and were constructed in rugged ‘frontier’ areas by pioneers, explorers, missionaries and other such adventure seekers. Though diverse, the architectural character shared the common thread of blending familiar styles from their places of origin with locally available materials and rudimentary construction methods; yielding simple, yet substantial dwellings. Structures were often “nestled” into their site, taking advantage of existing natural features for protection from the elements.
Courtyards and covered loggias allowed for comfortable outdoor spaces even in the harshest conditions; providing filtered natural light and cooling breezes. The expansive rural settings offered opportunities for the site to evolve, and additional buildings were constructed only as they became necessary.
The combination of these factors produced rambling, low-lying, human scale dwellings that were functionally and visually anchored to their site. Overall, this vernacular has produced a rustic simplicity and enduring charm that echoes the spirit of the pioneers and adventure seekers from which it evolved. Whisper Rock’s architecture espouses similar attributes, eschewing trends and fads for an emphasis on timeless architecture, simple structures, and a focus on indoor-outdoor living. To view a copy of Whisper Rock’s Design Criteria, click CLICK HERE.
Design Review Process
A Panel consisting of several of the area’s top professionals offers its expertise to guide each Design Review Application towards approval through a series of “working meetings” 
where open dialogue between the Applicant and the Panel is encouraged. This process affords both Panel and Applicant a more thorough understanding of design goals and requirements, and thus enables the Applicant to confidently and efficiently advance through the design process. A Panel Chairman moderates the meetings and is also available between meetings to confer with the Applicant as needed. A formal Submittal Package, typically the most costly component of any Design Review process, is not required until both Panel and Applicant have developed a comfortable understanding of the Final Design requirements, thereby minimizing further revisions.
