Twentynine Palms, California
The Wheelhouse is an artistic high-desert retreat formerly owned by TV personality Huell Howser. A rare example of mid-century modern architecture deep in the California desert, the 2,221 square-foot ranch sits on 12 acres of untouched desert near both entrances of Joshua Tree National Park, offering a feeling of total seclusion less than an hour from Palm Springs with 360-degree mountain and desert views.
An avid collector of found materials and repurposed objects, Howser turned quarry stones into yard sculptures and industrial elements into lighting fixtures. Five large millstones, each more than 100 years old, surround the full-length backyard pool, giving the home its name. In the early 2000s, Howser added a sunroom extension, created by panels of etched glass, and a separate living room and dining area in the same industrial style, making the home further suited to large gatherings.
Now owned by an artist, The Wheelhouse has preserved the industrial qualities that Howser introduced, while incorporating personally created pieces that mirror his style. The light-filled living room, features three owner-created pieces, including a triptych on plywood, a unique wood-based tripod lamp, and a sunset-hued tree light.
The gourmet kitchen features a four-seat breakfast nook, stainless steel appliances, the original 50’s stove and plenty of counter space, with a door leading directly outside for easy al fresco dinners. A mid-century dining area features a marble top table with six Eames shell chairs and sliding glass doors that open onto the zero-scaped patio.
Primary Suite
King bed
Chaise-style daybed, which comfortably sleeps one additional person and an en-suite bath features a unique sink made of an old street lamp glass.
Second Bedroom
Queen bed with picture windows and a shared bath with the original 50’s green tile and fixtures.
A den, featuring a large-screen TV and writing desk, provides additional accommodations with a queen sleeper sofa, allowing the home to comfortably sleep 7 guests.
Outside are the elements that truly set the home apart. Howser’s industrial accents remain decades after installation, creating the feeling of a modern sculpture garden. An architect designed paneled steel fence surrounds the perimeter, each piece thoughtfully laid in the ground at the same angle as the mountains beyond. The back patio opens to a full-length swimming pool with baja tanning shelf and outdoor spa surrounded by chaise lounge chairs. Please note the pool is not heated; however, the spa is heated. A vintage two-seat swing, nestled just off the living area, offers the perfect place to take in the views. Also outside is a 12-seat al fresco dining area, which converts into a ping-pong table. A gas BBQ grill and indoor/outdoor stereo system complete the ultimate desert entertaining experience.
Honoring the communal spirit encouraged by Howser, The Wheelhouse has become a place for celebrations, gatherings, and creative retreats. Artists have used the home to write, draw, meditate or practice yoga. Photographers have used the space for creative shoots. And couples have made the retreat their own, taking their vows against the rocky cliffs and desert brush that surround the home. Between indoor and outdoor spaces, The Wheelhouse can comfortably host up to 120 guests for a cocktail reception and 75 for a seated dinner.
This home permits weddings and other events. Please reach out to us directly to discuss hosting an event at this property.
This home welcomes 1 dog with an additional, non-refundable pet fee of $150, plus tax. Please be advised that dogs are not permitted in the pool.
LOVE this house. So comfortable and they think if everything! Robes, coffee, anything you can imagine. Every corner was a new artistic adventure. Great communication. Would definitely recommend and will return!
Loved the house and everything about it! Great location and very peaceful.
The property is absolutely amazing for a family of 5. Great layout for indoor or outdoor hanging! Beautiful views of the desert and city lights at night. Ideal location to multiple Joshua tree entrances. Maybe not the best for dogs as there is jumping cholla in the backyard and interior dirt areas in the house — but we didn’t have any issues here. Great communication with Shelly !! Awesome place. We will definitely be back !!!
Wow!!! What a beautiful property! Art abounds . The home is well equipped with everything we needed for our stay. We enjoyed the pool and BBQ, relaxed inside at night . Close to Joshua Tree NP. Shelly greeted us and showed us around the home . Her hospitality was appreciated. We look forward to returning.
This was THE MOST amazing house and THE MOST amazing house management I’ve ever seen. The house itself is stunning and accommodating and the property is just jaw dropping. The management team goes above and beyond to make your stay over the top. I would recommend this house to EVERYONE. Great vacation spot for friends and family to spend time together and enjoy nature. 5 stars all the way.
We rang in the New Year at this property and had the best time. Full of artistic charm and treasures from Huell's adventures. The current owner has done an amazing job adding her personal style to the mix. We will definitely be back again!
The house and the property are beautiful and perfectly curated. The team were amazing to communicate with and very attentive and on time. We had a great stay. Will be back.
Love the house ,the owner has a nice artistic feel .Blends well with desert !
We celebrated my husbands 40th birthday this last weekend and were so taken with the property. It was just beautiful. We will definately be back.
This was the perfect ending to our spring break road trip with our teens. The wheelhouse is an expertly decorated ranch home just inside 29 Palms city limits, yet remote enough to provide a sense of retreat while you watch incredible sunsets and stargaze by the pool, firepit or jetted spa. We stayed in a lot of our places during our time in Arizona and California, but the Wheelhouse was definitely the highlight of our trip!
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Total
Includes taxes and fees