Creating A Palm Springs Look Even If Your Home Isn’t Mid-Century Modern

Coachella is just weeks away. While festival fashion might be trending, there is another kind of style that the Coachella Valley is even more well known for. This region of Riverside County California, just two hours from Los Angeles, is filled with beautiful mid-century modern architecture and stunning desert landscapes.

From the Design District on Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs to the outskirts abundant with by sky-high palm trees, mountains, and exclusive country clubs—there is no place on earth like the Coachella Valley. It’s easy to spend hours or days hitting up the many furniture boutiques, which range from shops selling everything from attainably-priced sets of antique sconces and vintage acrylic bedframes costing nearly $20k, all the way to the latest Jonathan Adler pieces. While the area is a haven for design aficionados, all of the furnishings and art can feel just a little intimidating to the average person. Classic resort style meets desert chic, it’s a challenge for visitors to leave this unique locale empty-handed.

Welcome To Hotel Inspiration

While the area is known for mid-century modern hotels and homes, many structures were built before this style came to prominence. Take the Omni Rancho Las Palmas for example. It was originally built in the 1950s as the Desert Air Hotel & Resort by Los Angeles architect H.L. “Hank” Gogerty. Omni took over the property in the late 1970s.

While the resort originally catered to crowds like the Rat Pack in the old days, today it’s a little less wild. There is something for everyone. Corporate conferences and other events take place in the many meeting rooms. At the same time, it’s a popular spot for weddings. The hotel draws a family crowd with a waterslide and pool for kids. Couples looking for a getaway enjoy the adults-only pool and relaxing spa treatments. This means the overall design and decor of the space must appeal to and function for a variety of needs.

While the Omni has maintained much of its original charm, designers have incorporated style elements that give the hotel a true Palm Springs look and feel. Much of the resort even underwent a soft goods refresh in 2018. Here are a few highlights and ideas on how to recreate the look in any space.

Add A Pop Of Color

There’s nothing that says resort or summer quite like color. While this exterior space features Omni’s traditional style, bright aqua cushions break up the neutrals and add an element of fun. Pops of color are also present in the landscaping as well as the deep blue ceramic planters.

Chartreuse accent chairs and bright art bring the look indoors. To re-create a similar look, it’s important to stay within one or two color families.

Pepper In Prints

Choosing printed fabrics is another great way to bring resort vibes into a space. While many people are afraid of prints because they are such a specific choice, it is a design risk that is certainly worth taking. Just one print really elevates a room. Keep in mind that prints don’t have to pop like color does. The dining chairs look refined, but don’t exactly scream “I’ll have another margarita, please.” However, the fabric still breaks up the neutrals while adding warmth and character.

Consider Neutral Prints

When thinking of Palm Springs prints, designers such as Trina Turk may come to mind. While bright color prints and patterns are very characteristic of the area, it doesn’t mean that using them is a must. One neutral print can feel very Palm Springs without trying too hard or feeling as if it is a major design risk. Because this pattern incorporates the other colors, it looks chic but effortless.