FAIR CIRCLE
MID CENTURY FOR THIS CENTURY
RENOVATIONS + FURNISHINGS | PALM SPRINGS, CA
Published in the February 2024 issue of Palm Springs Life. It looks like a pristine circa 1961 William Krisel— and it is, except for the 'pristine' part. Previous owners boxed in the folded plate to make it more 'contemporary' (and also added decorative neon). Our architect's goal was to remaster the home during a three year to-the-studs restoration. Our job was to make sure the result wasn't simply a period piece. This was a fully custom project, and we wanted it to feel specific to the owners.
Stan Boles, Architect
Wes Sugg, Contractor
Since the finished architecture was linear and graphic, we added curves— from waterfall upholstery pieces to the entry console's legs. That juxtaposition creates modern comfort and nods to the regency style that so many Vista Las Palmas homes originally possessed. A mixture of blues, teals and greens cool the desert sun.
The kitchen was expanded for entertaining to include a 14' island. We chose quietly luxurious materials— slabs of White Macubus granite and Birch hardwoods. Backsplash tile was specified as square format to compliment the home's beginnings, but executed in a tonal range to keep it current. Appliances were clad to match the cabinetry; hardware is brushed stainless for a timeless look.
We asked the architect for paneled headboard walls throughout. This allowed us to keep the beds low— both period-appropriate and modern—while still creating warmth and scale. We designed floating nightstands for each of the guest rooms. The primary bath includes a freestanding tub to take in the garden. A custom hand-blown pendant hangs above.
Art is an important component throughout the house. Existing pieces were rethought (from bedroom to entry) and reframed (from off-the-shelf to custom fabrication). New pieces were acquired with the criteria that there had to be a personal connection to the artist or piece. Even the tile was chosen as art— layouts were drawn by hand before the installation.
The courtyard was furnished for both relaxing and entertaining. A cast concrete fire bowl from Lumacast anchors the seating. Umbrellas were chosen to have the thinnest profiles so as not to interrupt the view. Furniture is custom— inspired by the owners' trip to Tulum.
Photography by Lance Gerber