Whole Life Magazine

August/September 2015

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ere's no ignoring the town's 120 thirsty golf courses, many fed by private wells that nevertheless deplete the water table; and per person water consumption of 221 gallons per day, nearly three times the average of 77 gallons. But the governor has mandated 25 percent reductions and many of the fairways are beginning to replace some of their emerald-green grass with more drought-tolerant options. PRESERVING THE PAST T he preservation of Palm Springs architecture isn't just a commitment to repurposing; here it's a culture all its own. Sleek mid-century modern homes highlight the stunning des- ert geography of the Coachella Valley. Beautiful examples of modernist style exhibit plenty of glass, a melding of indoor and outdoor spaces that save on cooling and heating, and in- ventive construction utilizing natural elements such as local stone. Outdoor gas repits glow, garden cactuses and succu- lents thrive. e town's iconic look is celebrated. We stayed at two boutique properties that have embraced and expanded on their pasts. is form of eco-conscious pres- ervation, coupled with e orts to conserve water and develop alternative hydration sources, creates an overall atmosphere of green friendly living in this desert enclave. HOTELS GO BACK TO THE FUTURE A t the Saguaro, the Joie De Vivre chain has transformed a former Holiday Inn on East Palm Canyon a few minutes from downtown into a fun, funky mélange of rainbow col- ors. Vivid chartreuse, rich purple, hot pink and sunshine yel- low have made the hotel's formerly bland rooms vibrant and playful. As general manager Dan Burgess notes, "We've re-purposed it. ree years ago we restyled it into some- thing new, hip and colorful. We didn't waste anything; we reshaped it." Architects Peter Stamberg and Paul Aferiat provided ap- propriate spaces to appreciate the hotel's stunning backdrop of mountains and palms. e ample pool area features bright yellow umbrellas and loungers. Nearby, a bocce court, ping- pong table and picnic tables are scattered about on a synthetic grass lawn. Rather get your exercise in air-conditioned com- fort? An in-house yoga studio o ers daily morning classes, free to guests. Rooms with balconies or patios o er views of Mount San Jacinto and towering palms, or the busy pool scene and lawn activities. Hand-hewn Mexican-style furniture and tech fea- tures, including an iPod docking station and HDTV, are joined by more recycled style touches, such as retro Brownie cameras and dioramas featuring early Barbies. Organic bath and cleaning products aid in conserva- tion. Bed linens are organic, and there's a recycling bin in every room. An open and spacious lobby leads to dining options Tinto and El Jefe. e more casual El Jefe delivered perfect mush- room and corn tacos poolside, a fresh spin on traditional Mex- ican street food. If the Saguaro is a mass of bright colors, the Alcazar on North Palm Canyon is a study of white on white. Beautiful white duvets on the beds against a backdrop of white oors and white walls create serene, pristine rooms. Some feature charming private courtyards; others have in-room jacuzzis. Spanish Colonial buildings, some hailing from 1928, others from more recent construction when the property was a Peppertree Inn, exude an aura of exotic calm, a peaceful oasis in the heart of uptown's re-purposed it. ree years ago we restyled it into some- thing new, hip and colorful. We didn't waste anything; we reshaped it." Architects Peter Stamberg and Paul Aferiat provided ap- propriate spaces to appreciate the hotel's stunning backdrop of mountains and palms. e ample pool area features bright yellow umbrellas and loungers. Nearby, a bocce court, ping- pong table and picnic tables are scattered about on a synthetic grass lawn. Rather get your exercise in air-conditioned com- fort? An in-house yoga studio o ers daily morning classes, free to guests. continued from page 29 30 wholelifetimes.com

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