Last month my bestie and I set out for a quick few days in LA and Palm Springs, and we decided to make it a design destination trip, some of which Erin rounded up on her blog, Apartment34. Now – while we both love our husbands – there is something to be said for heading off on a trip with friends who have the same agenda as you! There was lots of hopping around to instagram-worthy restaurants, shops and hotels! But my favorite may have been the La Serena Villas in Palm Springs…
Originally built in 1933, the mini villas (think adorable Mediterranean-style cottages) were completely revamped in the past few years, each one being built back up to include a private patio and – in some cases – a private spa. I loved the cozy feel of the grounds with their minimal landscaping, and the mountains as our backdrop.
We arrived right at sunset the first night and caught that magical view from up on the rooftop of the hotel’s restaurant, Azucar.
This massive bench seat was the perfect spot to cozy into for a cocktail before heading out for the night. I loved how the more muted palette up here meshed with the backdrop of the mountains.
We were lucky enough to get a little upgrade for our brief stay, and ended up in one of the larger villas that came complete with a small kitchen and breakfast nook, living room, huge bed and bath, and hot tub!
The spaces were all designed by Avenue Interior Design, and man do they know what they’re doing. Look at that expert layering job!
After a good night’s sleep we plunged into the hot tub in the morning with our complimentary breakfast baskets that were delivered right to our door. The service here was beyond!
After our dip, we hit up the restaurant for second breakfast (don’t judge) because we just couldn’t miss out on the chance to enjoy breakfast with a view of the pool from the Frida room.
I loved how open this space was! And don’t get me started on that tile. The hotel has so many great, thoughtful design details.
The reception area is small but adorable – I love that this boho vibe almost feels preppy too. And – again – MORE good tile.
But of course, the main attraction is the pool! Oh man, did we miss out on some good sun time. We were so busy prepping for our talk at Modernism week that we fully neglected working on our tan lines. Which only means one thing…
We’ll have to go back! I’m pretty sure you’ll find me lounging right here on one of these big double chaises. There are so many new, well-designed hotels popping up in Palm Springs, it was hard to choose where to go, but I have to say I truly loved our stay here. The villas felt so private and tucked away, the service was fantastic, and it was nice to not feel like you were in a typical hotel environment. If you find yourself headed that way, I’d definitely bookmark this spot!
