Once upon a time, Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, and the Cisco Kid filmed their action-adventure movies around Rimrock and the newly re-branded Pioneertown’s Western Main Street, which is exactly five miles to the south. When I was three, I stood transfixed in my playpen, watching those black and white films. I guess their images must have burned an indelible brand onto my soul, because six decades later, their location is where I built The House on Geronimo Trail.

Before it was a house, it was simply five acres of land. As a small family, we would camp on it, and I would dream of building a quiet escape from the noise of the world. Only in 2020 did I realize it was finally time to put some shovels into the dirt.

The house is situated very literally where the road from civilization ends, surrounded by over 3,000 acres of desert wilderness. At The House on Geronimo Trail, you are truly off grid. You won’t see any unsightly poles or wires hanging about.

But don’t worry, the WiFi is supreme.

The property hosts a genuine abundance of solar power and batteries, running all the conveniences and gadgetry needed for comfortable modern living. A well taps deep into an unspoiled source, bringing pristine water up from 310 ft. below the surface.

The design of the house was a collaboration between myself and my nephew, an award-winning alumni of the Yale Graduate School of Architecture, who helped me bring my film and photography-inspired vision to life. The biggest influences of the design come from my visits to the Pueblo in Taos New Mexico, Georgia O'Keeffe's Ghost Ranch home, and the architecture of Mexican Modernist architect, Luis Barragan. The house was constructed specifically for the high desert climate, with thick walls and large western facing overhangs. When it’s hot, you can flip on highly-effective air conditioning. On cold Desert nights you’ll have access to all the heat you’ll need, and even a 1967 Mid-Century Modern orange porcelain fireplace. However, there’s often no need for any of that, as the insulation leaves one comfortable, even in the extremes. 

The views of the boulders and mesas will take your breath away. No need to drive anywhere for your hiking needs. Come visit soon. The lizards and crickets are waiting.

Mark