The Lautner Compound

"Some people dream of private islands with snowy sand and palm trees. Others fantasize about sleeping in a John Lautner house. For the latter, nothing beats this remote 1947 compound of luxury “living units” designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright protégé, the only Lautner residence open to public bookings. All concrete, redwood, glass, and steel, the four flats, which sleep two adults each, are distinctly designed with vintage furniture, organic cotton pillow-top mattresses, Heath Ceramics–tiled showers, and contemporary kitchens. Spend the day sunbathing from your private patio and cooling off in the saline plunge pool, and stargaze from the skylight above your bed at night. The micro-resort is self-catering, but that makes it all the more special—instead of eating in a restaurant, up to 12 people can dine under a communal redwood pergola; arrangements can be made for private chef dinners there, too. A hidden speakeasy-inspired bar for guests of the Ranch House (this additional accommodation, not a Lautner, sleeps four) only fuels the retro fantasy. Plan ahead: Weekends fill up months in advance."

"This part of the desert is a treasure trove of mid century architecture—Hotel Lautner gives guests a chance to call one of these gems home, even if its just for the span of a weekend. As the name suggests it’s the handiwork of renowned architect John Lautner and structurally, it’s more of a four-unit compound with a shared outdoor common area than a freestanding house or hotel (there’s no concierge on duty but maid service can be requested for extended stays). Taking in the surroundings, complete with succulent gardens, dipping pool, and fire pits, and bumming around the spectacular rooms (all are outfitted with vintage-modern furniture, kitchens, and a selection of architecture-themed books) is the extent of on-property activities, which is pretty great in its own way. There’s also an event space attached that can easily fit 200 or so people making it the ideal spot for a wedding."

"Three hotels in one - The Lautner, The Park, and The Ranch House. A four-unit desert retreat 15 minutes north of downtown Palm Springs. The Ranch House was designed by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1947 as a movie producer’s getaway. Mad Men in a terrarium. Each room is filled with quality mid-century-modern decor (a Warren Platner table, a Milo Baughman sofa, Bertoia chairs), but the real eye candy is the wraparound view through glass walls that overlook succulent gardens. Saguaro and century plants are dramatically lit at night, and a skylight above three of the rooms allows you to sleep under the stars."