Though the first thing that comes to mind at the mention of the Grand Canyon is likely the immense, spectacular natural beauty, the canyon is also home to some of the premier architecture of the southwest.
The majority of the structures at the canyon were designed and construction was supervised by architect Mary Colter. As a woman, Colter was a pioneer in her industry simply by virtue of her sex. However, she was also an innovator in other respects. As a student of the arts and crafts movement, Colter’s designs focused on achieving a harmonious blend between nature and the structures she was erecting.
The Grand Canyon is home to the majority of her work, five of its buildings bear her mark. The el Tovar Hotel was not built by Colter, however the Fred Harvey Company hired her to decorate the interior. Though the building has been renovated many times over since she worked on the project at the beginning of the last century, it still bears the hallmarks of her style.
Hopi House was erected next, designed in its entirety by Colter, who consulted with the native people in planning the facility, wanting to give it the feel of a Hopi lodge. By consulting with the indigenous people, she hoped to introduce visitors to the canyon to native culture.
Colter’s next project was Lookout Studio. To this day, canyon goers still use the telescopes to enjoy the canyon’s impressive views. The studio was intended to echo the natural rock formations present in the canyon, serving Colter’s overall design principle, integrating the manmade with the natural.
Hermit’s Rest was built the same year as Lookout Studio. Colter intended the building to appear as if it were a hermit’s dwelling. The exterior melds into the landscape, the interior is furnished in a rustic fashion. For a period Hermit’s Rest was inaccessible, however recent renovations to the road means that private vehicles can now travel to the historic rest stop. With its floor to ceiling windows, Hermit’s Rest features some of the most incredible indoor views of the canyon.
Colter’s final contribution to the canyon is Desert View Watchtower. Based on Anasazi structures, the seventy foot tower provides those willing to make the climb with 360 degree views of the canyon. Again, she incorporated native culture; the tower features a mural by a local Hopi artist.
This woman’s contributions to southwestern architecture are unmistakable. Placing priority on the use of local materials, respecting native culture, and integrating the natural surroundings into her designs made Colter a unique architect, well ahead of her time. Though the natural grandeur is surely the focus at the canyon, her architecture lends a further level of interest to the site.
This is a post for any of you who are looking to go on a guided trip or know anyone who is looking to do the same.
