When picturing Aloha Living, one might envision oceanic views and sun-soaked sands. It would be hard-pressed to find the first image in your mind to be that of the Coachella Valley. And yet, we’re at it again to cultivate reality from vision.
Enter, the Desert Oasis Show House.
This 4,350 square foot home, designed in 1978 by architect John Walling, is located within the El Dorado Estates of Indian Wells.
Homeowner, elite swimmer and surfing aficionado, Jeph White, is the Spirit behind this lavish Luau living space. It was important to create flow, not only within the walls of the home, but also into the outdoor oasis.
This was a design cemented in intention; melding the human, structural world of planning with the natural world to create maluhia – peace and serenity.
Mohala i ka wai ka maka o ka pua
“Unfolded by the water are the faces of the flowers”.
Surrounded by native flora, the centered, circular pool is the (literal and figurative) watering hole of the outdoor gathering space. Extending out to the left side, the gathering grounds of the outdoor kitchen welcomes friends and Ohana alike. To the right, an intimate arrangement to unwind with the warmth of the fire feature as the sun sets over the Santa Rosa Mountains.
The bright, fresh greens ground the corals, violets and yellows that rival the starburst sky. Chiseled from lava rock, the outdoor shower creates an island getaway feel that can rinse away the heat of even the hottest summer desert days.
Cooperative design in the desert
One of the greatest pleasures of this project was the opportunities it afforded to collaborate with other brilliant designers in the area and beyond.
We worked closely with Chris Barrett, owner of Chris Barrett Design, to optimize entertaining spaces and prioritize the views of the exterior lounging areas. Her distinguished perspective and exceptional expertise lent to union of island ease with desert design of the luxurious outdoor kitchen, firepit, BBQ, dining and seating areas.
What else is springing up from this desert oasis
The event, which takes place during March 30-April 10, 2022, is rooted in philanthropy. This year, Desert Oasis will be hosting three events in hopes of reaching this years’ fundraising goal of $100,000 to benefit FIND Food Bank, the National MS Society, and the Special Olympics of Southern California.
There will also be multiple opportunities – such as panel discussions, podcasts, art exhibits, and fashion shows – put on by artisans, builders, manufacturers, architects, designers and more for participants to enjoy both in-person and virtually.
Mahalo Nui Loa to Karen Okner, and her entire team, of Design Collaborative for presenting the 2022 Desert Oasis Show House. From the numerous notable designers and architects to the sponsoring companies such as PIRCH, Corona Lighting and Moya Living, this event and opportunity is a pleasure to share with you all. Designing is only one piece of our passion puzzle, watching our visions come to fruition is the pineapple on top.
Get Tickets
You can check out the event lineup, learn more about the incredible collaborators on this project, and – best of all – get tickets!
Here’s your chance to get real with our designs. Tour the home, sit in on expert panels with Ecocentrix Principal, John Feldman, view exclusive art, listen to live-recorded podcasts and MORE!
Events are still being added, so be sure to check back regularly.
One of our other Desert Sanctuaries, Mesa Modern, brings its own unique essence to the desert.
Or – if the mountains are more your speed – check out some of our Hillside Estates.