Home to world-class tennis tournaments, high-end real estate, and breathtaking natural scenery, Indian Wells is one of California’s best-kept secrets. If you’re ready to experience the laid-back desert lifestyle in this city, then it’s time to commission your dream home.
We’ve gathered the best residential architects in Indian Wells, California to help you choose the right partner for your project. These architectural firms were chosen for their expertise, reputation, and qualifications.
Patel Architecture Inc.
71-711 San Jacinto Dr., Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Patel Architecture Inc. began its creative existence in 1985, whose work at that time centered on explorations of the relationship between dwellings and the landscapes in which they inhabit. Narendra Patel started the firm based on the essential ideas that architecture can serve as a bridge between nature, culture, histories, and people, and that inspiring surroundings have a profound positive effect on people’s lives.
The neutral tones, natural stone, and signature organic design of Patel’s architecture flawlessly capture the sensibilities of the desert. His innate connection to the region’s landscape is the key factor in all of his designs. A protégé of the prominent mid-century architect Donald Wexler, Patel’s designs and architecture have often been described as organic, eco-friendly, and even spiritual. Compared to the likes of John Lautner and Frank Lloyd Wright. Patel himself, though, is hesitant to categorize his designs, insisting that his work reflects not necessarily a style but an evolution of ideas. Over the years, Patel has designed hundreds of homes in the Coachella Valley. His work in China, where he has designed Ecological-communities and superblocks in many cities, has brought the architect worldwide recognition and multiple Gold Nugget awards.
Every project the firm designs is infused with eco-design and art. For Patel, combining art is “not just a matter of placing sculptures and art objects surrounding the building, but the building itself should be a sculpture for people to enjoy, experience, and explore.” Learn more about them at www.patelarchitecture.com
David R. Olson Architects
32 E. Palm St., Altadena, CA
David R. Olson Architects believes that architecture is a social act that guides the way individuals work, play, and interact with one another. The firm specializes in high-end residential and commercial design, having conceptualized some of the finest Contemporary and Spanish Revival-style homes in Indian Wells. These properties offer the best of luxury desert living with glistening pools, outdoor fire pits, and glass walls that offer views of the Coachella Valley’s rugged terrain.
With a strong commitment to service and high ethical standards, the firm aims to provide timeless designs that reflect the client’s lifestyle and individual preferences. Founder and Principal David R. Olson Architects AIA, NCARB, received the 2019 LUXE Gold List Award for his work on a Contemporary home in Newport Beach. The home features a Jerusalem gold limestone facade, bronze railings, quartz countertops, and mahogany detailing from some of the area’s top suppliers. .
Michael Norpell’s Wall To Wall
161 S. Civic Drive Suite 8, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Michael Norpell’s Wall To Wall is bringing back Mid Century Modern through a host of high-end services that include construction supervision, remodeling, window treatments, landscape design, exterior styling and color, paint and finish selection. The firm aims to create a living space that reflects each client’s personality and individual style. Its clean line approach to architecture and design allows it to develop spaces with comfortable warmth. By marrying modern materials with timeless and sophisticated designs, Wall To Wall helps clients reimagine the Mid Century Modern home that has become synonymous with California. Owner and Principal Michael Norpell, member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), is a landscape architect and interior designer with over 25 years of experience. He keeps clients engaged in the design process by presenting multiple concepts and igniting the team’s imagination.
The company’s noteworthy portfolio includes Estrella Moderna, a Mid Century Modern home that the firm updated to include contemporary lighting fixtures and a brand new kitchen while preserving the original floor plan. A fresh approach to terrazzo flooring and vinyl cabinets was incorporated into the project. The result is an elegant and inviting space with just a bit of flair. With many impressive projects like these, the firm received the 2017 Illinois Landscape Contractors Association Award for Best Overall Residential Landscape Project as well as the 2017 Illinois Landscape Contractors Association Gold Award and Judges’ Award.
Tectonic Design
81598 Ricochet Way, La Quinta, CA 92253
Tectonic Design operates with sustainable design in mind. The firm masterfully integrates sustainable concepts and materials into each of its projects to reflect its belief in Creation Care, which involves a spiritual approach to design and the environment. Founded in 1998, the firm delivers memorable projects across the United States, including Promontory II in Utah and the Mason Residence in North Carolina. Principal Designer Tonino Vicari, LEED AP BD+C is a photographer, media specialist, and evangelist. Under his leadership, the firm aims to create healthy living spaces that meet the client’s unique needs and desires. An integral part of its process includes gaining a deep understanding of its clients and how they envision their future homes. As a result, the firm’s finest works reflect the memorable personalities of the clients they have engaged with over the years.
Tectonic Design is behind some of the finest Modern and Contemporary homes in Indian Wells. One of its notable projects, Hanes, located in Andersonville, Tennessee, is a fine example of Modern design. With glass walls, metal railings, and reinforced concrete, the structure blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. The clean lines, stainless steel appliances, and smooth white countertops create an elegant but livable space. This is modern home design with substance.
KHA Architects
72-185 Painters Path Suite A, Palm Desert, CA 92260
For KHA architects, designing homes is a matter of intuition and innovation.
Each project begins with a simple question: “What if?” thus encouraging exploration and creative problem solving that allows the team to come up with original designs. Under the leadership of principal Architect Kristi Hanson, FAIA, the firm strikes a balance between artistry and engineering with the use of Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and other technologies. Hanson’s firm emphasizes client participation throughout the process, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone can share their ideas. The results are visually arresting, highly individualized homes that are a reflection of their owners.
Its portfolio includes Modern, Contemporary, Tuscan, Spanish Eclectic, and European-style homes that are as inviting and comfortable as they are visually stunning. Rising above the Coachella Valley, these homes were designed with the unique topography of the California desert in mind. KHA Architects conceptualized these homes to embrace the natural terrain and to leave the environment largely undisturbed throughout the design and construction process.
One of its standout projects, Residential Project 7, features fine stonework, glass walls, and recessed lighting in addition to custom wine bottle displays and desert landscaping. A triumph of modern architecture, the home brings the outdoors to the indoors with panoramic views of the desert, carefully chosen house plants, and black fireplace pebbles.
Guy Dreier Designs
44651 Village Ct. Suite 135, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Guy Dreier Designs is a small but capable firm that takes a personalized approach to design and architecture. Taking only a select number of projects each year enables Principal Architect Guy Dreier and his team to be directly involved with each design, following each project through to completion. Guy Dreier has over 35 years of experience, having designed unique homes in Boca Raton, Las Vegas, Rancho Santa Fe, Malibu, Wailea, and the private resort communities of Palm Springs. Under his leadership, the firm was voted 2nd in the world by Robb Report. The firm is also the recipient of the 2009 Robb Report Ultimate Home Award.
Guy Dreier Designs offers complete architectural and interior packages in the Indian Wells area. Its projects include Tuscan, Spanish Eclectic, Modern, and Contemporary homes with sculptural exteriors and warm and organic living spaces make California desert living all the more special.
One of its finest residential projects, Palm Springs Clifftop Residence, features stunning stonework and various sculptural details. The brilliant use of curved suspended ceilings and recessed lighting creates a warm, glowing interior. It also designed The Vintage Club, The Quarry, and Bighorn Golf Club—renowned for their modern contemporary design and elegantly appointed interiors.
Hundred Mile House
Palm Springs, CA, 92260
Hundred Mile House takes the reins on all residential new construction and renovation projects. The firm is involved in each phase of design and development, exploring various design options that best fit the client’s budget and project needs. With years of experience in architecture, permitting and materials selection, the firm is sure to go beyond client expectations.
Specializing in Modern and Contemporary architecture, the firm believes in creating “spaces that work”, or homes with comfortable and intuitive designs. HMH approaches design with respect for how the space might be realistically used. Whether the client needs a child-friendly home or a layout that’s perfect for entertaining guests, the firm will consider each client’s individuality and needs.
The firm is the recipient of the 2016 RTF Awards for its work on the Chino Residence, a 1954 custom-built home with unique architectural detailing. HMH sought to preserve the charm and original structure of the property while upgrading it to become more functional, spacious, and energy-efficient. The team’s renovation and addition more than doubled the home’s square footage.
HMH has been featured in The Mid Century Modern Landscape, Cape Cod Magazine, Palm Springs Life Magazine and Times of San Diego.
Cioffi Architect
2121 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Suite 3, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Cioffi Architect seeks to redefine quality design with a diverse body of work that includes some of the most distinctive high-end custom homes and civic and commercial projects in the Palm Springs area. Principal Architect James Cioffi, AIA has over 40 years of experience in design and architecture throughout the Coachella Valley while architect Brandon Newell has over 10 years of experience in project management.
Many of the firm’s residential projects include exemplary Traditional, Contemporary, and Mediterranean-style homes. These designs explore the relationships between desert, sky, water, and plant life, bringing these disparate elements into elegant but comfortable living spaces. The firm has also done commercial work for high-profile projects such as the remodel and rebranding of Hotel Zoso. Cioffi Architect was tasked with integrating musical elements into the new design in keeping with the Hard Rock Hotel brand.
Featured here is Pinnacle 5, a steel and glass-clad modern, home with clean lines and natural surfaces that ignite the senses. Full-height glass walls offer sweeping views of the rugged terrain while natural stone accents and granite countertops create an earthy, sophisticated feel. The home blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living, both of which contribute equally to the unique California desert lifestyle.
McAuliffe & Co. Architects
45125 Panorama Dr., Palm Desert, CA 92260
McAuliffe & Co. goes beyond form to create living spaces that create joy, comfort and wonder. When it comes to its creative process, the client is an active partner in the whole process. The firm focuses on fostering a collaborative and dynamic environment where clients can share their goals, ideas, and vision for their architectural projects. This enables the firm to develop a deep understanding of each project requirement, explore various design concepts, and most importantly, tell the client’s story through their architecture.
Owner and Founding Principal Michael McAuliffe, AIA, NCARB has been working on a diverse range of projects in the United States since 2008. These include civic, hospitality, religious, and private properties. A registered architect in the states of California, Michigan, and Washington, McAuliffe serves on the City of Palm Desert Architectural Review Commission. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Detroit with international study in Italy.
The firm is known for Modern and Contemporary architecture that blends effortlessly into Indian Wells’ dramatic landscape. One of the highlights of its portfolio, the Tamarisk Residence, epitomizes simplicity and understated elegance. Clean lines, natural textures, and a restrained palette make this home a pleasure to live in. Steel-framed canopies and glass walls blur the distinctions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Tharp Studios
200 East Francis Dr. Suite 140, Palm Springs, CA 92262
When it comes to unique or ambitious projects, working with a full-service firm that takes a collaborative approach to design can bring you closer to your goals. Tharp Studios offers custom residential and furniture design in addition to commercial tenant improvements. The firm gets to the essence of each project by telling a story that starts with design concepts before manifesting into built form.
It does this by listening intently to each client’s needs and performing thorough site analysis. Part of its process also includes gathering historic examples of similar projects reconfigured with modern sustainable design. As the team works on the design process, the story of a project gradually unfolds through material, scale, orientation, light, views, and ventilation. Principal Ryan Tharp, AIA holds a degree in Architecture from the University of Cincinnati. The firm has been featured in Refinery29, Bon Appetit, Palm Springs Life Magazine, The Desert Sun, and San Diego Magazine.
Its portfolio includes Mid Century Modern, Modern, and Contemporary design. Featured in this article is the renovation of a Palm Springs vacation rental, which the firm redesigned with vintage furniture, artwork, and accent pieces to create a fantasy getaway. It also proposed a covered outdoor area for entertaining guests.
South West Concepts Inc.
78-115 Calle Estado Suite 106, La Quinta, CA 92253
South West Concepts is dedicated to the creation of transformative spaces. As a full-service, multidisciplinary firm, SWC takes on ambitious projects that reimagine and recast the landscape of the Coachella Valley. Founded in 1985, the firm is responsible for some of the most memorable residences and commercial spaces in the Indian Wells area. These include Tuscan, Mediterranean, European, Modern, and Contemporary-style homes that offer the best of desert living. One of these projects, the Solomon Estate, features a lavish but tasteful Mediterranean-inspired design that blends well into the area’s natural terrain. With exceptional stonework, landscaping, and water features, this estate is an oasis in the heart of the California desert.
The firm collaborates with clients and key stakeholders throughout the design process, transcending the boundaries and limitations of conventional thinking to create functional but aesthetically pleasing spaces. Designer and builder Stephen R. Nieto leads the practice with more than 30 years of experience. As a licensed general contractor, Stephen brings a practical and grounded perspective to each project. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from California State Polytechnic University Pomona.
Peter A. Frazier
Temecula, CA 92592
For principal Peter A. Frazier, great design is about creating beautiful but functional spaces. This architectural firm believes in making complex projects simple for clients who want to stay on budget and schedule. This makes it one of the most reliable design firms serving the Indian Wells area, having completed over 1000 projects to date, including high-end custom homes and small commercial developments. With more than 30 years in business, the firm delivers residential and commercial design solutions that meet the highest standards. With an eye for Spanish Eclectic and Tuscan architecture, its portfolio includes some of the finest homes in the area.
The Yorba Linda Residence is a fine example. With exquisite tile roofing, facade stonework, and professional landscaping, this home blends seamlessly into California’s sun-drenched landscape. Water features such as a stone water fountain and outdoor swimming pool offer respite from the heat.
The firm takes a hands-on approach to conceptual design, taking site conditions and building codes into careful consideration to avoid delays. Its creative design solutions are aimed at optimizing space and making the most of the client’s budget. The secret to its success is clear communication, which helps ensure the timely completion of each project and maintain proper coordination among stakeholders throughout the design process.
Ochoa Design Associates
73626 CA-111, Palm Desert, CA 92260
When it comes to residential architecture, quality-oriented design and service can make all the difference. Ochoa Design Associates is a mid-size, multi-disciplinary firm offering high-end architectural services for residential, commercial, hospitality, civic and industrial developments. Founded in 1988, the firm has worked on a vast array of projects, showcasing remarkable versatility and a high level of adaptability. Its complex designs can be seen throughout the Coachella Valley and elsewhere in California, Colorado, and Mexico. Founder and Principal Architect Juan Carlos Ochoa holds a degree in Architecture from the Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC) in Mexico, and has led the firm through many successful designs. Some of its finest ones feature Traditional and Contemporary architecture.
One of its most notable projects, The Renaissance, features elaborate stonework, tilework, and desert landscaping for maximum curb appeal. Its lavish interiors have rich wood panels, gleaming hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, and wrought iron railings that add warmth to the space.
JMA Architecture Inc.
73-995 El Paseo Suite 201, Palm Desert, CA 92260
When it comes to design, it’s important to work with a firm that knows how to translate client voice into action. JMA Architecture Inc. takes a straightforward approach to the design process, making every effort to understand the client’s vision for the project and delivering a final product that surpasses all expectations. Principal James “Jim” McIntosh is a licensed architect, personally working closely with clients to help bring their vision to life.
While it’s easy for architects to understand design for themselves, the ability to understand the vision of clients places a firm on another level. This rare skill allows JMA Architecture Inc. to create unique and extraordinary designs that resonate with clients and stay within budget. With more than 30 years of experience, it communicates calmly and professionally to ensure timeliness.
Its vast body of work includes Modern, Contemporary, Tuscan, and European-style residences that raise the bar for laid-back living. These designs feature oversized windows and glass panels that offer breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley. The masterful use of color accents, organic textures, and natural stone surfaces results in elegant and inviting spaces that clients will want to come home to.
BY Building Design
9382 Moreno Valley, CA 92552
Working with an architectural firm with knowledge of a wide variety of styles is an advantage in any project. Founded in 2002, BY Building Design specializes in custom home design and architectural building design. Its diverse portfolio includes Tudor, Tuscany, Spanish Eclectic, Modern and Contemporary home designs with flair. The firm offers drafting, planning, and consultation services to help you actualize your dream project in the Indian Wells area. Each project is tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the client, allowing the principal to deliver distinctive and memorable designs. Led by Principal Robert Ibarra, who studied design at the Southern California School of Architecture (Sci-Arc), the firm is a three-time Best of Houzz Award winner and still successfully builds today.
Its notable projects include La Casa, a Spanish Eclectic home that doesn’t shy away from the bold colors and textures of the Iberian Peninsula. This gorgeous home features stucco walls, beamed ceilings, and terracotta floor tiles that add warmth and liveliness to the interiors. Wrought iron railings, Spanish-style stair risers, and other lavish details make this home truly one-of-a-kind. The same quality and meticulous attention to detail can be observed in other residential projects throughout Coachella Valley.
