SIERRA MADRE cONDO PALM SPRINGS, CA
RENOVATION AND INTERIOR DESIGN, 2023
2 bed · 2 bath · 1146 SF
Film fans will be familiar with this home’s setting in Canyon View Estates, thanks to the 2022 movie, ‘Don’t Worry Darling.’ Canyon View Estates, designed by William Krisel in 1961, is the setting for the film, and it’s easy to see why it was selected for the location by director Olivia Wilde, with its remarkable design that appears slightly other-worldly or fantastical. Folded-plane rooflines with clerestory windows are the most recognizable style; two-bedroom units have pop-up flat roofs and clerestory windows. Breezeblock and shadow block variations on exterior walls add to the midcentury vibe.
This unit was purchased early in 2022. In need of major restoration and remodel for their home, the owners called on HMH to make significant changes to give them a luxurious environment to include furnishings, fixtures and fittings. The decorative shadow-block wall to the right of the entry continues through the house as the backdrop for the living room, through to the rear patio where it becomes a privacy wall. This feature, connecting outdoors and indoors, was a signature design element in many Krisel homes. Floor-to-ceiling glass highlights spectacular views and patio access, while clerestory windows add natural light. The kitchen is entirely remodeled but uses the original footprint. To give a feel of space and clean lines, there are no upper cabinets; all appliances are counter height or under-counter. Cabinetry is painted, with integrated pulls; countertop and backsplashes are Mont Blanc book-matched marble. In the living room, a wet bar was introduced, also backed with Mont Blanc marble, adjacent to the dining area. Multiple ceiling lights were removed, so that now only speakers are inset. The floor is newly poured terrazzo. The furnishings include Bassam-Fellows lounge chairs, Kelly Wearstler side chairs, a classic sofa, and Eero Saarinen dining table, with the overall look in a soft contemporary style.
The hallway between bedrooms was reconfigured as was the primary bedroom, to give the bed the full impact of the views. The HOA required owners to retain the sunken Roman tub, so it was terrazzo-ed into the tub and up the wall; wall-mounted toilets make good use of small space. Skylights were added to both bathrooms to increase light. Handmade tiles are from Clé tile, fixtures are miniature globes that were tiled into the wall, Watermark faucets are wall-mounted, System22 outlets are plastered in; toggle switches are Forbes and Lomax.
