A Palm Springs Restoration Creates a Rockin’ Desert Retreat

Desert Retreat

Text by Staci Munic Interiors

Midcentury modern meets rock and roll with a nod to the old west in this Palm Springs ranch restoration.

Our rock star client was seduced by the location and spectacular view in the Little Tuscany
neighborhood. The charm, patina, and ruggedness of this two bedroom two bathroom vacation
home drew our client to this special property, as well, and he wished to preserve its essence.

Desert Retreat

The main bath received a complete renovation, as the client wished to have every surface refreshed.

A custom walnut vanity and mirror, black bath tub with black stone accent wall, along with the satin
brass hardware and plumbing fixtures create a harmonious palette of materials that are
simultaneously edgy, while also soothing and luxurious.

We restored the kitchen by refinishing the millwork and rejuvenating the tile countertops. We relocated the washer and dryer from the kitchen to the hallway adjacent to the bedrooms.

Desert Retreat
Desert Retreat

We chatted with Staci Munic of Staci Munic Interiors to find our more about her design aesthetic and helping clients create their dream homes.

Desert Retreat

What do you think was so special about the midcentury modern period in American design?   

“It was a time of pure simplicity and beauty, where form and function met, where the designs made sense….sophisticated, yet playful, not overly embellished, yet interesting.  It reflected the time in American culture post war, where we had a moment to breathe and feel like we could enjoy living again.” 

Desert Retreat

Staci also had some great advice for people interested in adding midcentury design elements to their home. We were interested in her tips on how to mix and matching vintage items with new.

“Layer it in.  Unless of course you are a purist, which I am not.  I adore MCM, and work it in to nearly every one of my projects, yet even in my MCM architectural  homes, I say it’s okay to stray a bit.”

Desert Retreat

Staci added: “Honor the architecture and period of the home, but also honor your own style, taste, and comfort level. Pay attention to scale, and to how many different elements and styles you incorporate into each room. It’s a delicate balance.”

Desert Retreat
Desert Retreat
Desert Retreat

We asked Staci what was important in choosing an interior designer to work with.

“Look at their insta and website and meet the designer either via zoom or in person.  Pay attention to how you feel and vibe with the potential designer.”

Staci further explained: “You will be spending a lot of time with that person, and it’s as important to like how you feel about yourself and your ideas, as well as how much you love their work.”

Desert Retreat
Desert Retreat

The client loved the result and enjoys escaping Los Angeles to relax and unwind in this special place. As Staci says: “At the end of the project, will your space feel like you, only better than you ever imagined?” And this is exactly what was achieved.

Desert Retreat

Photos by Lance Gerber

Architecture by Mark Daniels and General Contracting by PSI