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United States / California / Joshua Tree
The Wheelhouse is an artistic high-desert retreat formerly owned by TV personality Huell Howser.
Overview
A rare example of mid-century modern architecture deep in the California desert, the 2,221 square-foot ranch sits on 12 acres of untouched desert near both entrances of Joshua Tree National Park, offering a feeling of total seclusion less than an hour from Palm Springs with 360-degree mountain and desert views.
Built in 1952, the home features an indoor/outdoor layout that provides an ideal setting for weddings, private events and creative retreats, with multiple seating areas for catering, receptions or small-groups. When Howser, an icon of California history and culture, bought the home in the 1990's, he sought to create a communal, creative environment that has endured through every element.
An avid collector of found materials and re-purposed objects, Howser turned quarry stones into yard sculptures and industrial elements into lighting fixtures. Five large millstones, each more than 100 years old, surround the full-length backyard pool, giving the home its name. In the early 2000s, Howser added a sunroom extension, created by panels of etched glass, and a separate living room and dining area in the same industrial style, making the home further suited to large gatherings.
Now owned by an artist, The Wheelhouse has preserved the industrial qualities that Howser introduced, while incorporating personally created pieces that mirror his style. The light-filled living room, features three owner-created pieces, including a triptych on plywood, a unique wood-based tripod lamp, and a sunset-hued tree light.
The gourmet kitchen features a four-seat breakfast nook, stainless steel appliances, the original 50’s stove and plenty of counter space, with a door leading directly outside for easy al fresco dinners. A mid-century dining area features a marble top table with six Eames shell chairs and sliding glass doors that open onto the zero-scaped patio.
Outside are the elements that truly set the home apart. Howser’s industrial accents remain decades after installation, creating the feeling of a modern sculpture garden. An architect designed paneled steel fence surrounds the perimeter, each piece thoughtfully laid in the ground at the same angle as the mountains beyond. The back patio opens to a full-length swimming pool with baja tanning shelf and outdoor spa surrounded by chaise lounge chairs. Please note the pool is not heated; however, the spa is heated. A vintage two-seat swing, nestled just off the living area, offers the perfect place to take in the views. Also outside is a 12-seat al fresco dining area, which converts into a ping-pong table. A gas BBQ grill and indoor/outdoor stereo system complete the ultimate desert entertaining experience.
Honoring the communal spirit encouraged by Howser, The Wheelhouse has become a place for celebrations, gatherings, and creative retreats. Artists have used the home to write, draw, meditate or practice yoga. Photographers have used the space for creative shoots. And couples have made the retreat their own, taking their vows against the rocky cliffs and desert brush that surround the home. Between indoor and outdoor spaces, The Wheelhouse can comfortably host up to 120 guests for a cocktail reception and 75 for a seated dinner.
Amenities
2 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms
Sleeps 7 Guests
- Wi-Fi
- Hot Tub
- Washer
- Dryer
- Towels
- Linens
- Tea Kettle
- Coffee Maker
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
- Dining Area
- Mountain View
- Fire Pit
- Fireplace - Gas
- Patio Area with Outdoor Furniture
- Al Fresco Dining
- Indoor/Outdoor Stereo System
- TV
- Ping Pong Table
- Additional Fee
Details
Bedroom Details
Two spacious bedrooms create an indoor/outdoor feeling with big picture windows, sliding glass doors and minimalist decor.Master Suite: King bed, chaise-style daybed, which comfortably sleeps one additional person and an en-suite bath features a unique sink made of an old street lamp glass.
Second Bedroom: Queen bed with picture windows and a shared bath with the original 50’s green tile and fixtures.
A den, featuring a large-screen TV and writing desk, provides additional accommodations with a queen sleeper sofa, allowing the home to comfortably sleep 7 guests.
Pool Details
PoolHot tub
Staff and Services
ConciergeVilla Notes
The Wheelhouse can comfortably host up to 120 guests for a cocktail reception and 75 for a seated dinner. Please note: to have events at the villa, guests must obtain a permit at an additional cost. The permit must be approved prior to the event being scheduled.Exclusive Offers
Take your vacation to the next level, with 2 free airline tickets.* For a limited time, every reservation over $50,000 will receive an airline reimbursement worth up to $1,000 - any airline, any destination. Imagine flying in style to your handpicked villa located in one of the most beautiful destinations around the world, knowing that you've saved on the cost of your flights. This is your chance to experience the ultimate in luxury travel and indulge in the vacation of a lifetime.
*Free air promotion is valid new bookings only and cannot be applied to existing bookings. Valuation based on two round trip tickets using the bureau of Transportations U.S. average flight price for 2022. Receive up to a $1,000 reimbursement for flights upon presentation of a flight receipt. Minimum booking value of $50,000 applies. The booking value applies to the villa cost only and does not include any additional services or fees. This offer is valid for bookings made 2/20/2023 through 3/26/2023 for travel now through 2/31/2024. Bookings made outside of this period will not be eligible. The $1,000 air credit offer is non-transferable, has no cash value, and cannot be redeemed for any other service. The airline credit will be applied to your booking once your villa rental has been paid in full. The airline credit will be redeemed by providing a receipt of your booked flight and a check will be sent to you within 15 business days of providing flight documentation. All offers are subject to availability. We reserve the right to modify or cancel this promotion at any time without notice.
Location
Villa information may change without notice and should be confirmed with our villa rental specialists.