Saturn Haus, an off-grid modern home in Joshua Tree on 160 acres, seeks $15 million – Redlands Daily Facts

A secluded Joshua Tree retreat designed for off-grid living is on the market for $14.995 million.

Known as “The Saturn Haus,” the self-catering residence spans 4,240 square feet and features four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The modern design spans 160 acres of desert and consists of four distinct structures made of concrete, steel and glass, connected by open-air corridors.

Records show the owner, writer Wendy Wacker, purchased the property in December 2012 for $85,000 and oversaw the home's construction.

For the design, the 64-year-old Wacker worked with architect Bill Bickford, founding partner of the Chicago-based design firm Northworks. The couple met to mark the 150th anniversary of the renovation of the chapel and grounds of Chicago's Graceland Cemetery, where Wacker's great-grandfather Charles H. Wacker, chairman of the Chicago Plan Commission, is buried. He played a key role in modernizing the Windy City in the early 20th century.

The Saturn House, completed in 2017, is characterized by a modern house that harmonizes with its surroundings.

“We wanted the desert to take over, for the house to feel as if it had descended from the sky to be gently placed on the desert floor, and thanks to the expertise of the Northworks team, we achieved this,” said Wacker.

Every room offers a clear view of the barren landscape and the distant mountains.

The 2,110 square foot main living area features an open living area, high ceilings and heated floors, and glass walls that open to allow for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Other highlights include a fireplace in the great room, an open eat-in kitchen, and a spa-inspired bathroom in the master suite.

Additionally, the property includes a 1,280-square-foot guest casita with bunk beds, a 620-square-foot music listening room and a 230-square-foot art studio.

The home generates energy through a solar array and a wind turbine, while a thermal system heats the 75-foot lap pool with attached spa and maintains a constant temperature.

Other highlights include an outdoor barbecue area, a dining terrace and a rooftop observation deck.

The house is completely independent of the grid and has no emergency power supply.

Charlie Price of Coldwell Banker Realty is the listing agent.