The Lautner Desert Hot Springs Motel

Looking for inspiration and a weekend getaway? Located just outside of Palm Springs is the John Lautner designed Desert Hot Springs Motel, which is comprised of just four interlocking units, each with its own patio and cacti garden. If the Lautner pedigree seems vaguely familiar, it might be because you've seen his homes in films such as “Diamonds Are Forever,” “Lethal Weapon II”, “Body Double”, “Less Than Zero” and "The Big Lebowski" (who could forget the Jackie Treehorn scene?).

Each of these four rooms have been preserved and restored to such detail that all are furnished with era furnishings, a replica 1947 television and a refurbished 1937 Western Electric telephone. Occupants have their own private patio and cactus garden to admire while relaxing in the desert air. It's a desert Mid-Century masterpiece made of sprayed-on concrete, steel, glass and redwood that exemplifies the Southern Californian aesthetic and the blurring of indoors-outdoors lifestyle.

We're saddened to discover that Lautner Motel owner, Steve Lowe, passed away earlier this year of natural causes . Those interested in staying at the Lautner Motel can email or call about availability of any of the rooms.

Comments (3)

Are they really taking reservations?? I believe that Steve Lowe's estate (his surviving sisters) have been trying to sell the property for a couple of months; and that Crosby & Doe has the listing. Asking price has recently been reduced to $650,000 (from $745,000).

Just a word of warning if you intend to stay, this is in a sketchy part of Desert Hot Springs. How do I know? About 10 years ago, a friend and I drove by to look at the place when we're in the desert for the weekend. One of the occupants was kind of enough to let us in and show us her apartment. The building was great; but the neighborhood a bit skeezy...

It's amazing what Steve Lowe has done with his restoration. Such a shame that this wonderful piece of architecture suffers from a bad location.

posted by Enrique on June 13th 2007 at 2:50pm
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Great space...

My wife and I have are more into the vintage aesthetic but can definitely appreciate any space that shares this much light and clean contrast with it's surroundings.

Nick at The Junk Market - Vintage Home
http://www.thejunkmarket.com

posted by thejunkmarket on June 13th 2007 at 9:14pm
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Nick! Love your store! I usually come by after the Farmer's Market on Sundays... I've purchased vintage soda bottles and French napkins from you in the past.

posted by Enrique on June 13th 2007 at 10:24pm
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