Commissioned by two young University of Arizona librarians, Phyllis Ball and Patricia Paylore, the small 1203 sq ft site-specific house was conceived to meet their needs, create a refuge in the desert, and bolster indoor-outdoor livability.

The front facade, with a focus on privacy and minimal ornamentation, is characterized by an angular open carport, mortar-washed brick, and windows set high between the beams at the ceiling.

This creates a strong juxtaposition to the interior which is open and expansive with interactive glass window walls blurring the lines between the indoor and outdoor patios and yard.

[4] The built-in casework including bookshelves and desks was designed and built by noted artisan craftsman Jack Kelso of Desert House.

[10] In Spring 2019 the longtime owners of the Ball-Paylore House died, leaving the fate of this significant post-WWII experimental passive solar home in the balance.