Established in 2001 by Mark Giorgetti, Palo Santo Designs LLC began in Taos and soon relocated to Santa Fe to serve a stronger luxury real estate market. Mark brought together formal training in Environmental Science and a master’s in carbon management from the University of Edinburgh with deep experience in energy‑efficient building and renewable energy. He founded the firm on principles of environmental stewardship, sustainability, and architectural elegance—often working on LEED‑certified custom homes at Gold or Platinum level.
Working alongside Mark is Brandon Snoy, Principal and field operations lead, who trained as a carpenter and LEED‑for‑Homes practitioner. Brandon’s hands‑on experience and leadership in construction deliver consistency and quality, and he has served as President of both the Santa Fe Area Home Builders’ Association and the New Mexico Home Builders’ Association.
Also central to the team is Sandra Odems, Lead Architect with over 25 years of experience in residential, commercial, and public‑sector design, including restoration and green building expertise via her LEED credentials and Tulane/Master’s work.
Featured Projects Designed & Built by Palo Santo Designs
1. Studios at Parkway – Santa Fe Commercial Development
Completed in Phase 1, this boutique development of 15 commercial condominiums caters to small businesses and artists. Each unit (~1,500 sq ft) features steel‑frame construction, concrete floors, open‑plan interiors, mezzanine, kitchenette, and bathroom—delivered ready for immediate occupancy. The buildings are minimalist, contemporary, and reflect an industrial‑industrial aesthetic, while supporting the growing arts and retail community in Santa Fe. Phase 1 sold out before completion, and Phase 2 is under construction with pre‑sales underway.
2. Custom Hilltop Artist Retreat
Palo Santo Designs publicized a striking artist’s dream retreat in the Santa Fe hills—a custom home “built to honor the land, the light, and the lifestyle of the Southwest,” including spaces ideally suited for photography and creative work. This project reflects their sustainable building standards, thoughtful siting, and tailored craftsmanship that supports artistic pursuit.
Architectural Philosophy: Where Legacy Meets Modern Luxury
Palo Santo seamlessly blends traditional Southwestern adobe heritage with clean contemporary forms. Wood, plaster, local stone, and steel are combined in homes designed for high‑performance living, passive solar comfort, radiant heat, and sustainable water management—all while embracing the dramatic desert landscape.
Mark’s leadership infuses each project with a passion for Gold or Platinum LEED certification, and Brandon’s hands‑on construction oversight helps ensure project delivery on time and budget. Sandra Odems’ design direction adds depth, precision, and adherence to the aesthetics of both sustainability and Santa Fe style.
Why Palo Santo Designs Homes Stand Out in Santa Fe Luxury Real Estate
Builder‑designer integration: Architecture and construction teams work under one roof for consistency and control.
Sustainability credentials: Multiple LEED-certified homes (Gold/Platinum) set a benchmark for high-performance living.
Authentic site‑sensitive design: Homes are rooted in the landscape, with an eye toward light, orientation, and cultural context.
Ideal for luxury buyers seeking substance: Design integrity, craftsmanship, energy efficiency, and resale longevity attract discerning clients.
