The Design History of Miles C Bates House
The Miles C Bates House, also known as The Wave House, was designed in 1955 by the American architect Walter S. White. Located in Palm Desert, California, the house is one of the iconic architectural landmarks. It is renowned for its distinctive roof that reflects the spirit of mid-century modern design.
Originally, the house served as a sculptor’s studio for artist Miles C. Bates. Over time, Bates decided to transform it into a communal space for fellow artists who frequented the California desert. This shift became a gathering point for artists and creatives and added significant cultural value to the architectural landmark.
Over the years, the house has become an important symbol in the history of architecture and home design from that era. Thanks to its unique design, it is now classified as a designated historic landmark. It reflects the cultural importance of the house as a site of cultural significance.
Collaboration Between British Designer Paul Smith and DWR
In an innovative move to connect art with contemporary design, the design team at Design Within Reach (DWR) partnered with a vacation rental boutique to offer the Miles C Bates House as a destination that guests can rent. This partnership added a new dimension to the house and turned it into a place for visitors and creatives who appreciate art and architecture. The renowned British designer Paul Smith is known for his distinctive designs blending classic and modern styles. He played a significant role in enhancing the house by adding pieces from the DWR Presents: The Paul Smith Collection. These pieces added a touch of elegance. They also added modernity that aligns with the house’s history and architectural landmarks.
Cultural and Historical Impact of the House
The Miles C Bates House remains one of the most important examples of mid-century modern architecture. It reflects the evolution of design thinking during that period. This house stands as a living example of how art can be integrated with architecture. It adds both cultural and financial value to the community.
The Wave House Furnished with the DWR: Paul Smith Collection
The Wave House has been furnished with a selection of distinctive pieces from the DWR: Paul Smith Collection. This adds a modern and sophisticated touch to the historic home. All the products inside the Wave House are available from DWR, which also opened a new store in Palm Springs during the city’s Annual Modernism Week in February. This collaboration between DWR and the renowned British designer Paul Smith reflects a fusion of modern design and classic modernism. It enhances the house’s unique character.
Site Selection: The Wave House
Speaking about the choice of The Wave House as the launch site for the experimental collection, Omar Noble, Vice President of Creative Board at DWR, said: “We chose to launch the experimental side of the collection at The Wave House due to the original and bold design of the house, which parallels the collection.” The selection of this historic home reflects the distinctiveness of its unique design. It elevates the collection’s value and attracts visitors interested in art and modern architecture.
Architectural Design Excellence of the House
The Wave House stands out among many famous mid-century homes in the community. This is due to its quirky roof design, which is set against the dramatic landscape of the low desert. This distinctive design contributes to showcasing the Wave House as an artistic and architectural site with a unique signature in the California desert.
Renovation and Public Opening
The house was first opened to the public in February 2020 after an intensive renovation by Stayner Architects, a Los Angeles-based firm that currently owns the house. This renovation revived the home and gave it a modern touch that aligns with its historical character. It is now one of the most prominent architectural landmarks for visitors to explore.
The Wave House Roof Design Inspired by the San Jacinto Mountains
The roof of The Wave House is a distinctive element in its architectural design. It mimics the natural curves of the nearby San Jacinto Mountains. This feature is expressed inside through wooden slats that add a warm and vibrant character to the interior spaces. The design also facilitates a seamless transition between the inside and the outside. Large glazed exterior walls slide open to reveal a rocky backyard garden and swimming pool. This creates an environment in harmony with the surrounding nature. It enhances the sense of openness and connection to the outside world.
Privacy and Interior Space Layout
Despite this openness to nature, the painted brick walls provide privacy for the house from the street. These walls also divide the interior spaces. They help organize the flow of rooms in a comfortable and coherent manner. Plywood panels are strategically used in the interior spaces to achieve a balance between modern and traditional elements. They enhance the functional division of spaces.
The Influence of the Paul Smith Collection on the Wave House Design
When adding elements from the Paul Smith Collection, the unique impact of the British designer on the house becomes evident. Pieces from this collection can be found in many rooms, including fabrics created in collaboration with the Maharam textile brand. There are also exclusive furniture pieces such as the EaMes chair cast from plastic and the Eero Saarinen womb chair.
Luxury and Details in Interior Design
Paul Smith’s signature lines cover the cushion-covered chairs by the poolside, along with a sofa and armchair in the living area. Additionally, patterned fabrics are upholstered on the headboard and frame in the bedroom, adding a touch of luxury. These fabrics were specially designed to echo the colours of the surrounding desert landscape. They create a balance between modernity and traditional touches in the design.
Paul Smith’s Aesthetic: From Fashion to Furniture
Although Paul Smith is famous for his work in fashion, he has also excelled in delivering a renowned aesthetic in other areas such as outdoor furniture and rugs. His classic designs, such as the Hans J Wegner chair and the Anglepoise lamp, reflect the perfect balance between modern elegance and design heritage. This addition has made The Wave House a place where architectural art blends seamlessly with contemporary furniture design.
Modern Architecture in the Coachella Valley
The Coachella Valley in California is renowned for its unique collection of modern architecture. These structures were built in the mid-20th century to cater to the Hollywood elite who would escape to the desert from Los Angeles. These buildings reflect the spirit of innovation and development of that era. They blend architectural beauty with desert comfort.
Notable Examples of Architecture in the Coachella Valley
Among the most notable examples of this architecture is the Elrod House, designed by John Lautner. It is considered one of the most famous designs in the area. The Kaufmann House, designed by Richard Neutra, and the Twin Palms House, designed by E. Stewart Williams, are other landmark examples that embody this distinctive architectural style. For more inspiration, you can check out 11 of our favourites in the Coachella Valley.
