According to Michelle Boudreau, founder of Michelle Boudreau Design (MBD), a desert modernist residence in California designed by influential architect William F. Cody has undergone a yearlong renovation to swap stark gray interiors for vibrant Palm Springs sunset tones, custom millwork, and warm pink finishes. The three-bedroom, four-bathroom transformation preserves the home’s original layout and kitchen while introducing natural textures to reflect the surrounding landscape.
Bringing Palm Springs Sunset Tones Indoors
When designer Michelle Boudreau first toured the property, every room featured gray paint and standard neutrals. Working alongside a homeowner who wanted to capture the local atmosphere, Boudreau introduced warm pinks throughout the residence, spanning custom dining banquette seating, wooden cabinet handles, and entryway sculptural pieces, as reported by Livingetc.
“She really wanted to feature the Palm Springs sunset tones and bring the outdoor landscape inside,” Boudreau explains.
Mid-Century Millwork and Cocktail Culture at the Entry
The front entrance sets an immediate tone of celebration through custom reeded wood millwork with rounded edges designed by MBD. According to the designer, these architectural details serve as a direct nod to the mid-century modern aura established by William F. Cody while pulling in the natural colors of the surrounding mountain range.
To honor the region’s social climate, Boudreau installed a wet bar right by the front door. Clad in terracotta tiles and finished with a polished chrome tap mixed with brass accents, the entryway is immediately cocktail-ready for visitors arriving in the desert heat.
Living Room and Kitchen Updates
Overcoming low ceilings and dated gray finishes, Boudreau kept the home’s existing kitchen cabinets but elevated them with fresh hardware, reeded wood detailing under the bar, and four-by-four Cody-esque Design Collaborative tiles. In the adjacent living space, a tall fireplace clad in matching handcrafted tiles draws the eye upward, anchored by an oversized Nordic Knots Boho Sands rug and a custom cut-velvet sofa.
“It actually does get cold in the desert,” Boudreau notes, explaining the functional necessity of the living room fireplace.
Did You Know?
William F. Cody was an influential architect, known for integrating structural lines with the rugged landscape. MBD’s renovation echoes this philosophy by pairing natural wood art by Tilde Grynnerup with custom pink and terracotta accents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed the original desert modernist residence?
The home was originally designed by influential architect William F. Cody.
Who led the recent interior renovation?
California-based founder of Michelle Boudreau Design (MBD) Michelle Boudreau, spearheaded the yearlong transformation.
What is the primary color palette used in the updated home?
The updated interior features warm Palm Springs sunset tones, anchored by pinks, terracotta, and natural wood finishes.
Subscribe to Livingetc
Stay ahead of interior design trends by subscribing to the Livingetc newsletter for expert style ideas, trend forecasts, and exclusive home tours.
Keep reading