A Joshua Tree Gem Is Open for Stays—But Only for a Select Few
An exclusive California desert retreat beckons with black walls and expansive views.
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
Black Desert House in Joshua Tree
There’s a certain type of wonder elicited by a home built into the boulders of the California desert. A special kind of grounding, if you will, from reclining next to the otherworldly rocks that dot this part of the Southwest, as if they were dropped from the sky in some thunderous cosmic game.
So, it’s worth noting that Oller & Pejic Architecture’s Black Desert House is now available for short-term stays throughout the year. But there’s a catch: The vacation rental is limited to only one or two lucky guests each week, so you’ll want to book quickly to secure a weekend getaway at this architectural gem.
Situated on more than 400 acres in Yucca Valley—about 30 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park—this property boasts two bedrooms and and two bathrooms, plus covered parking. It previously received much fanfare thanks to design details by creative director Marc Atlan (Dior, Helmut Lang, Prada, and more).
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
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Now, the home is managed by luxury short-term vacation rental company Homestead Modern, with interior design help from H3K Home + Design in Palm Springs. In the living room, you can lounge on a Blue Dot sofa or West Elm leather chairs next to an H3K coffee table while you look out over the expansive floor-to-ceiling views of the surrounding desert.
But that’s not all. The home is also replete with an array of art pieces, from a Monsoon circular sculpture by Ireland’s Anna Siddi-Yacoub to a pop art painting Collective soul 16 by Ukraine’s Mykola Kuryliuk over the fireplace.
You’ll also find a drawing from Spain’s Jesus Perera and photographs from United States artists A.K. Nicholas, Kristin Hart, and Susan Burger, and Germany’s Flynn Newton. Plus, a sculpture from Ukraine’s Nazar Symotiuk.
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
Most of the patio furniture is from Modloft, offering an outdoor oasis for dip in a pool that gives away to views of the expansive desert property. Or you can walk through the inner courtyard, where an olive tree stands at attention, and cool down in the outdoor shower before cooking up a meal on the grill.
It all makes for a romantic desert escape—if you’re willing to splurge. Nightly rates average about $2,400, according to Homestead Modern. You can book a stay here. Make sure you’ve got our travel guides handy for exploring the surrounding area, from Joshua Tree to Palm Springs!
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
Courtesy of Homestead Modern
