Herb Ritts builds log cabin in Santa Fe

Ritts acquires forest land nearby

The photographer discovered the area almost by accident five years ago when his aunt opened an art gallery there. He initially sought remote property away from adobe structures and found a house high above piñon-bristled plains. In the previous year, he purchased 150 acres of woodland located beyond the mountain peak for this endeavor.

Mother expands original house design

Herb Ritts envisioned minor adjustments to the original structure but his mother cantilevered the building out on all sides. She raised the ceilings and installed spacious tiled bathrooms that feature her trademark style during the renovation process. The couple worked together to transform the home into a perfect retreat from his hectic Los Angeles life.

Cabin built near old well

An old well was discovered on the property which led Ritts to consider building a romantic log cabin. He set an old chair on a rocky outcrop above groves of towering ponderosa pines to contemplate magnificent views. The new retreat sits a rugged ten-minute drive away from the main house overlooking the mountain peak.