We’ll start at the beginning, shall we? The word “adobe” is the heavy clay used in making bricks of sun-dried earth and straw. Used for thousands of years and found throughout the world, the building material is ideal for dry, desert-like climates like the southwestern United States.

Since adobe style pulls inspiration from the earth and natural surroundings, wood plays an integral part to the overall design. Large timbers frame the covered porches of this private backyard, bringing a rustic aesthetic, as well as flowing effortlessly with the adobe exterior.

Traditionally, adobe designs were built from sun-dried mud bricks, but today’s homes mix in cement, stucco and mortar for stronger structures. This stunning home in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with its welcoming outdoor space is a modern interpretation of the ancient style. Smooth pebbles outline the patio for a chic geometric design, and a simple water feature adds ambience to the space.

With a complete nod to the past, this home may be outfitted for a modern family but its exterior is full of history. The architecture features easy-to-source, local materials: clay, straw or grass, and water. Not only were the thick walls durable, but they also absorbed heat during the day that would release at night to keep families warm during cool desert night.

You can truly see how the adobe materials of this design style are a product of their surroundings. Located near Utah’s Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, this home seamlessly blends into its surroundings. Ancient meets of-the-moment with a combo of a streamlined boxy exterior and modern metal accents and large glass windows.

Another essential of adobe design is an inviting outdoor space. Whether found as an intimate patio or rooftop garden, a place to gather outside is part of enjoying the gorgeous desert landscape. Spanish-inspired gates lead to a cozy patio with a fireplace and soothing copper-and-stacked stone water feature.

Built along the Turquoise Trail in New Mexico, HGTV Dream Home 2010 pairs a stucco exterior with metal detailing. Beds of yucca and native pine are planted within a golden groundcover, created from crushed stone — highlighting the warm, desert tones of the home.

The desert’s hot and dry climate may make it hard for a lot of vegetation to flourish, but the on the flip side, it makes for easy-to-maintain, minimalist landscaping. Sweeping grasses, low-water trees and cacti add softness to the rustic stonework of the pool and outdoor kitchen.

Flat roofs are a hallmark of adobe design. Rounded edges bordered the roofs to serve as a barrier to collect rainwater — a necessity in hot, dry climates. Though rainwater collection may not always be a top priority for modern families, flat roofs remain an integral part of the style.

If you’re stepping away from a flat roof, a low-pitched roof made up of terracotta tiles is the way to go. Natural woods, stucco walls and minimalist landscaping surround the patio, where a comfortable seating area sits in front of the adobe-style fireplace.

Ancient adobe homes started off round before they began building rectangular designs. This gorgeous home in Mexico harkens back to the past with its curved silhouette and rope-tied wood railing. Of course, it’s firmly in the present with its upscale swimming pool and ultimate outdoor hangout.

Natural, earthy hues mimic the shades of the surrounding desert. A dramatic entrance not only impresses guests when they arrive, but also provides shade to the front door. Opt for different shades of stone to create a textured and eye-catching design.

Though sandy hues play a big role in southwestern design, it doesn’t mean you should shy away from bold colors. Bright red, oranges and yellows, as well as turquoises and cool greens bring brightness to the brown, tawny and bleached shades of the region.

Embrace the beauty of where you live by landscaping with native plants. Bring in a wide variety of cacti to deliver instant texture and interest to your home; plus, you get the added benefit of a low maintenance garden.