These Colorful Palm Springs Villas Make For The Perfect Weekend Escape

By  Kristine Hansen
exterior Kelly Peak of Peak Photography

Lars and Kelly Viklund didn't let much time pass before they bought the historic La Serena Villas in downtown Palm Springs. As seasoned hotel owners who oversee the outpost next door, they knew the property, a complex of villas built in 1933, would appeal to desert vacationers seeking privacy.

Once the address was theirs to renovate, they hired architect May Sung of SUBU Design Architecture and Avenue Interior Design to combine the property's original Spanish architecture with the area's midcentury style. "The overall approach was to modernize the Spanish look with fresh colors, interesting textures, and an eclectic mix of furniture and art," Kelly Viklund said.

The 18-villa property opened earlier this year as a reflection of the past, the present, and the personal. Rooms include beamed ceilings and quiet patios, which all share a minimalist palette accented with bright shades and textiles. "We call it modern Spanish-eclectic," Viklund continued. "[It's] clean with hints of color."

lobby Kelly Peak of Peak Photography

1. Lobby

With one wall open to the pool, the lobby features blue-and-white love seats and textile pillows next to a tiled fireplace.

2. Villa Exterior

villa exteriorKelly Peak of Peak Photography

Each villa's entrance has character, with a bamboo swing out front and vines snaking up the half-walls.

3. Bedroom

bedroomKelly Peak of Peak Photography

The bedrooms are filled with eclectic art and furnishings, such as this mustard-yellow chair and coffered wood dresser.

4. Dining Area

dining areaKelly Peak of Peak Photography

In the all-white dining area, colorful accents — like color-blocked photos of palm trees and textile pillows — are integrated with the timeless allure of an oil-lamp chandelier.

5. Living Room

living roomKelly Peak of Peak Photography

Positioning furniture around the tiled fireplace creates a cozy effect. Mismatched patterns in similar hues pop against an ivory backdrop and the hardwood floors.

6. Kitchen

kitchenKelly Peak of Peak Photography

A robin's egg Smeg refrigerator is paired with a black-and-white tiled backsplash and warm woods in the kitchen.

7. Bathroom

bathKelly Peak of Peak Photography

In the bathroom, exposed-grain wood flooring contrasts with ornate black-trimmed mirrors and gold fixtures.

8. Private Patio

fire pitKelly Peak of Peak Photography

Each villa has its own patio complete with a fire pit and an outdoor clawfoot tub. It's all surrounded by large urns and bright seating.

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