Similar to other kivas in the Mesa Verde area, kivas at the Far View Sites were built to withstand the weather. Six upright stone pillars, called pilaster, supported a thick roof with a single roof-top entrance. Because the kiva was well insulated, a small fire in the central firepit could warm the space even with smoke rising through the entrance. A ventilator opening drew fresh air in from outside, and the deflector directed airflow away from the fire.

[2 captures blended in Helicon Focus for focus stacking]