Tombolo: An Architectural Oasis

Daniel Joseph Chenin and Forté Specialty Contractors redefine luxury 

 

Appearing as if it were a mirage, Tombolo commands attention. Striking architecture against the expansive desert backdrop, introspective interiors this project asks where does the line between art and architecture collide? The namesake is rooted in the tombolo landform, a bridge between an island and mainland. It reaches for the connection between environment and creation.

Designing a legacy 

Daniel Joseph Chenin Ltd. was founded by Daniel Joseph Chenin, FAIA, in 2014. The same year, he was commended with the AIA Western Mountain Region (WMR) Young Architect Award.  His distinction to Fellowship in the American Institute of Architects (FAIA) makes him one of less than three percent of AIA members with this title. His work is centered around psychological alignment between people and place. Daniel prioritizes the storytelling of a space, for him a threshold is not just an entry; it is the first chapter of an experience. As a product of his philosophy, the firm was named American Institute of Architects Firm of the Year for the State of Nevada in 2021.

His design of Tombolo was brought from imagination to concrete by collaborating with Forté Specialty Contractors. The home won the 2025 American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) ANDYZ Award for Residence over 3,000 sf. and Best Kitchen alongside 7 other internationally recognized awards. 

Established in 2010, Forté Specialty Contractors builds and delivers custom residential, hospitality, commercial and themed projects. They are defined by their precision, innovation and artistry. Based in Las Vegas, Forté produces some of the most distinguished homes and destinations in the country.

Dual-purpose design 

The exteriors exhibit a mixture of iconic architectural elements. The design plays on Art Deco and Hollywood Regency era style synonymous with grandeur and elegance. The carved columns act as ribs that both anchor the home and stabilize it environmentally. The stone was individually sourced from international quarries. “Tombolo stands apart for its sculptural geometry, mastery of proportion, and immersive materiality,” said Scott Acton, CEO of Forté . “Vertical stone fins, deep overhangs, and rhythmic colonnades define the exterior, creating a dynamic play of shadow and light.”

The roof of the home appears as a living sculpture, shifting shadows at the whim of the desert light. Yet it carefully enhances its energy performance by insulating the home, reducing heat and absorbing stormwater. Intentional on all cylinders the interior features LED lighting, low-VOC paints and water-saving fixtures. The design follows principles aligning with LEED and the AIA Framework for Design Excellence.

Intentional interiors

The home measures approximately 12,400 square feet of livable space and a subterranean garage that can hold up to 12 vehicles. With the purpose to serve as a multigenerational residence, the design creates a livable legacy. The interiors are particularly tailored to the client. Touches of natural materials and hints of gold are a consistent motif across the home. 

“There’s an emotional rhythm to this home,” said Chenin. “A sense of breath, expansive and intimate, monumental and personal.”

In the kitchen, the eye is immediately drawn to the Bespoke La Cornue centerpiece island in polished ivory onyx with custom hood extension. Chenin describes the La Cornue as both a functional and symbolic element of family connection. Daniel Joseph Chenin, Ltd., led both the architecture and interiors. This in-house connection ensures seamless and well informed design language throughout the project. Collaboration with Forté 

The project, Tombolo is more than a high-end or luxury custom home.”Executing a design of such precision demanded absolute alignment between architecture and construction,” said Acton. “Every joint, reveal and datum line required millimeter-level coordination.” This level of preciseness exemplifies what true luxury is. Luxury is not just shiny appliances and high end materials, but the unwavering dedication of the design and build team. 

Photo Credit(s): Douglas Friedman