It’s been called “a live-in museum,” “the sexiest house in California,” and an inimitable retreat where “understated elegance is overstated and maximalism meets magic.” But these are mere words. Which tend to fall dramatically short when you’re talking about Joshua Tree’s famous - and infamous - Desert Dog House. Because this is more than a place. It’s an experience.
The space:
For decades a secret desert escape for the Hollywood in-crowd, this enchanting estate was built for entertaining. And its singular wonder goes on forever. Oversized tables offer dining for 14 - both indoors and out. Five spacious bedrooms serve four uber-eclectic living areas including the scandalous Skyroom with its expansive indoor/outdoor patio; the Library with nearly 2,000 books; the Game Room with a pool table, vinyl collection, and grand piano (See Below); and the Living Room with an 85" Samsung Frame TV that you might just mistake for art and seating for about a dozen guests. Oh, and there’s the Secret Room (for private events only) – which is all we’re prepared to say about that. Simply put, Desert Dog House is uniquely equipped to turn dinner parties, birthdays, and special events into unforgettable affairs.
Now then. On to the art and décor – which is worth the drive alone. This is a setting that makes art aficionados gawk and interior decorators stop and stare. You’ll find vintage furnishings by Timothy Oulton. A diverse collection of illuminated mirrors and crystal chandeliers. A remarkable, individually-lit art collection set in equally intriguing frames. And the very observant will notice numerous special artifacts that have been donated to the estate by famous – and infamous - patrons over the years. Every room is an adventure.
Finally, a word about luxury. After all, this is the desert, where pampering is paramount. You won’t be disappointed. From the heated floors in the bathrooms, to the soaking tub in the master bedroom, to the daybeds and the integrated hot tub on the sun deck – Desert Dog House offers extravagance and indulgence in every detail.
We’ve done our best to put an experience into words. At this point we invite you to have a tour of the photo gallery. Even that, however, can’t replicate the feeling of stepping through the front door and taking it all in. We’ve been told it’s a sensation that never gets old.
Welcome to Desert Dog House.
Other things to note:
We love to host, but need to plan in advance. Contact us regarding pricing for special events, dinner parties and more.
If you are a piano lover, you are in the right house. Our 5.5 Yamaha Concert Grand Piano was previously owned by a very famous celebrity who shall remain unnamed and has been played by many more. It's been used to record songs you've heard of and has delighted many a party. If you'd like to tickle the ivories yourself during your stay we charge a flat fee of $200 to unlock it due to its special nature and to help offset the cost of maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape. Please request this from our staff in advance of your stay and we will be sure to have it ready for you.
Upon booking, you will receive a link with a request to sign and agree to our house rules, verify your identity, pay our refundable security deposit, and schedule a phone call with our manager. Please note that these steps are required for all guests. All steps must be complete in full prior to check-in.