Desert by Design offers a refined exploration of interiors shaped by some of the world’s most arid landscapes. Marfa‑based creators Molly Mandell and James Burke traveled through the American Southwest, Mexico, Argentina, Morocco, Jordan, the Canary Islands, Rajasthan, and even a micro‑desert in New Zealand to document thirty distinctive spaces. Their journey spans high and low deserts, urban and remote settings, and environments ranging from sandy expanses to scrub‑covered terrain, capturing everything from iconic residences tied to Yves Saint Laurent, César Manrique, and Donald Judd to centuries‑old adobe structures and contemporary architectural statements.

Through conversations with choreographers, hoteliers, sculptors, environmentalists, chefs, audio engineers, and preservationists, the book reveals the sensory richness and creative resilience that define desert living. More than a traditional interiors volume, it blends design insight with a deeper reflection on place, offering guidance on cultivating the understated, intimate atmosphere associated with desert life and presenting imagery that encourages a mindful approach to space.

Ultimately, Desert by Design speaks to both those who inhabit the desert and those drawn to its ethos. It celebrates adaptability, innovation, and the distinctive character of these sensitive ecosystems, inviting readers to embrace elements of this lifestyle wherever they reside.

Author(s): James Burke, Molly Mandell

Hardcover, 336 pages, 8.95" x 11.15"