Mark Chalom and Betty Tsosie are living their dream in the foothills of Santa Fe, New Mexico | Mark, an architect, has been dedicated to creating high-energy-efficient homes since the 1970s, while Betty feels a deep connection to the land and environment through her Native American ancestry.
They have combined their expertise and passion to create a stunning passive solar home, thoughtfully designed and positioned to maximize the benefits of the sunny, arid climate of New Mexico. This residence, which is over three decades old, works harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Features such as strategically placed windows and walls help regulate the indoor climate, while the two-story sunroom, which includes a year-round garden, adds fresh oxygen, humidity, and beauty—something Mark refers to as the “lungs” of the house. Additionally, the high levels of insulation and airtight construction reflect design principles, materials, and techniques that are timeless.
Background
Mark’s passion for sustainable design began in the 1970s, fueled by concerns about the environmental impacts of traditional building practices. He was inspired by the potential of passive solar design, which was gaining popularity among designers and builders across the United States at that time. This movement eventually paved the way for developments in Germany over a decade later, leading to the establishment of the worldwide Passive House standards. Today, these standards represent the forefront of energy-efficient building practices for homes, multifamily dwellings, and commercial structures around the globe. It is also noteworthy that the principles of passive solar design have roots in the practices of Native peoples, such as the Anasazi, who utilized them in the southwestern U.S. thousands of years ago.
Heart of a Building will showcase this impressive home on both Rocky Mountain PBS and New Mexico PBS, with production to begin in the fall of 2026. For a more detailed look at this planned episode, please email Paul Kriescher at paulk@heartofabuilding.com.
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Heart of a Building, llc • Paul Kriescher, Executive Producer/Host
303.525.1158 | PaulK@heartofabuilding.com
