In Palm Springs’ Little Tuscany neighbourhood, a compact midcentury ranch has been carefully restored. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom home now blends midcentury lines with a few nods to the American West and a subtle rock and roll spirit. The client, a musician based in Los Angeles, was drawn to the location, the view, and the raw character of the property. He wanted a retreat, but one that respected the home’s original feel.
Interior designer Staci Munic was brought in to guide the transformation. The brief was straightforward: keep the soul of the house, improve the flow, and make it functional without losing its charm.
The main bathroom was completely redone. A custom walnut vanity and mirror, a black bathtub, and a black stone accent wall define the space. Brass fixtures tie it all together. The mix is clean and direct—practical, but with just enough presence to feel considered.
In the kitchen, the original millwork was kept and refinished. The tile countertops were restored. The washer and dryer, once located awkwardly in the kitchen, were moved to a hallway near the bedrooms. The change freed up space and made the layout work better.
We asked Staci about her approach to midcentury design and how she helps clients find their voice in the process.
“What made midcentury American design special was its balance between form and function,” she said. “It was simple and clever. There was clarity in the design, and it matched the time—a moment when people were ready to enjoy life again.”
Staci doesn’t believe in strict rules when it comes to midcentury interiors. “Unless you’re a purist—and I’m not—mix it up. I work midcentury elements into most projects, even if the architecture doesn’t demand it. You can be flexible.”
She stresses one point above all: respect the house, but also know your own taste. “You’ve got to honour the architecture, but also your comfort. Scale matters. So does the number of different styles you’re using. It’s always a balance.”
When choosing a designer, she says, trust your gut. “Check out their Instagram, their website. Then meet them. Whether it’s over Zoom or in person, pay attention to how you feel during that conversation.”
That connection, she says, can shape the entire experience. “You’ll be spending time together. It’s not just about liking their portfolio—it’s about how you feel sharing your ideas with them.”
In the end, the client got what he was after: a quiet place outside LA that reflects his style. A bit worn, a bit bold, and easy to live in. As Staci puts it, “At the end of the project, does the space feel like you—only better than you imagined?” For this home, the answer is yes.
Photos by Lance Gerber
Architecture by Mark Daniels and General Contracting by PSI
