- Architecture & development
No better location for a retreat than the desert, thought the young family for whom Woods + Dangaran designed this weekend retreat. Set against the rugged terrain of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains, the house was designed in a style that contrasts with the typical Palm Springs aesthetic.
Since the climate in a desert is not typical, the design team had to take this into account. Furthermore, it was important to the owners that the house radiates a sense of cosiness and comfort. As the project required the cooperation of interior designers and architects, Wood + Dangaran was able to commit to a common vision until the completion of the project. Since there are many aspects to building a house that require the cooperation and communication of architects and interior designers, it is efficient for them to work together under one roof. 
The house blends in nicely with its surroundings because the inspiration for the project was taken from the natural landscape.
The house blends in nicely with its surroundings because the inspiration for the project was taken from the natural landscape. Masonry block, steel and glass were used for the building itself. For the interior colour palette, sage green and dusty rose were used, blending in nicely with the sandy and brown tones. By doing so, they created a desert-like feeling in the house. The house consists of four bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. The two guest rooms each have a large, slit window overlooking the grounds. Each room connects to the outside in its own way through views, surroundings and landscape. Moreover, the unobstructed view of the city below was also an important aspect of the house. Therefore, the interior was created with the intention of enjoying the extraordinary view in silence. 
The incredible surroundings helped to position the building. For example, two natural streams were spread out, which ensured that the natural terrain was not disturbed and that natural drainage channels were maintained. There is also a large group of boulders on the site that help to define the natural boundaries of the building. They allow the building to blend into the site and ensure that the natural area remains as intact as possible. The one-story building has two wings, the west wing and east wing, blending in with the natural terrain.
For Woods + Dangaran, it was the first time they had designed a house in Palm Springs. They succeeded in creating a sanctuary where you can completely disappear into the surroundings and enjoy the calm and tranquillity that the house exudes. 
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Photography by Joe Fletcher