The desert environment of Palm Springs provided the inspiration for everything in this residence, from its orientation to its floor plan, exterior materials and interior finishes. Spanning a natural arroyo, the residence is perched lightly above existing boulders so as not to impact the native terrain. It is at once deeply rooted in the site and elevated above it, enjoying broad vistas over the floor of the LaQuinta Valley.

The design celebrates the hallmarks of classic desert modernism—horizontal lines, the use of natural materials, expansive glazing, and visual and physical linkages between indoors and out. Its simple, functional, and elegant composition consists of two rectangular wings joined by a glass bridge. The bridge provides a sense of tranquility from the point of entry and defines two internal courtyards filled with native plantings. Trellises filter diffused daylight into the courtyards, which create visual connections to the landscape from many vantage points. Strategically-placed floor-to-ceiling glazing frames stunning views of the desert in all directions.

Exterior materials include earth-toned plaster and textured concrete masonry units that match the color of the sand and mountains. The main wing and its deep overhangs are clad in in brass paneling that will patina over time. Teak and travertine are precisely detailed and present throughout.
The small wing houses a guest room and garage, and the main pavilion contains the primary bedroom, two bedrooms, and a great room with floor-to-ceiling walls spanning 30 feet on both sides. Through large, sliding glass doors, the living area extends onto a spacious outdoor deck with a pool, dining area, spa, fireplace, and lounge. The blend of open, shared areas and intimate enclosures allow its owners and guests to experience a rejuvenating range of spatial environments.

Interior hues are desert-like; sage greens and dusty pinks mix into sandy, brown tones to create a muted palette that blends in with the local terrain. A variety of wood furnishings throughout the home – such as the custom oak indoor dining table, walnut side tables, and teak outdoor dining table – replicate the range of shades found in the site’s boulders. Pops of color, such as the custom green upholstered bedframe in the primary suite, soft pink bedding, and indoor plants selected for the climate, help to bring the outdoors in. Many selections were made to balance the severe setting as well. Plush furniture such as the Bonnie Swivel chair (Ligne Roset), custom sand-toned poufs, and Capital Complex Armchair (Cassina) provide a cozy contrast to the harsh exterior.

Luxurious but unobtrusive, lush yet serene – the interiors of this home allow the owners to experience what is most important about this space, the surrounding beauty outside and unobstructed views of the city below.