A Restored Icon at The Palms at Indian Head Just outside the boundaries of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, The Palms at Indian Head stands as one of Borrego Springs’ most architecturally unique stays. With crisp lines, a distinctive color palette, and a quiet sense of glamour, the hotel is a desert-era relic of California modernism—lovingly brought back to life. Rescuing a Mid-Century Treasure Built in 1958 , the main hotel structure exemplifies California Mid-Century Modern architecture , with a flat roofline, expansive glass panels, and color-block accents that echo the influence of Piet Mondrian . The original design remains architect-unknown, but speculation suggests that influential figures like Cliff May , Joseph Eichler , or Albert Frey may have played a role, given the structure’s distinctive style and era. By the early 1990s, the property was in decline and faced potential demolition. That changed in 1993 , when current owners David and Cindy acquired the hotel and began a meticulous, ongoing restoration. Their vision preserved the architectural integrity while adapting it to a modern desert getaway. A Mid-Century Modern Lodging Experience Today, The Palms at Indian Head is recognized as one of the few mid-century modern architecture lodging options in Southern California’s deserts that offers both historic design and modern comfort . The layout includes casitas and upper-deck rooms with large windows, period-appropriate furnishings, and views of Indian Head Mountain . Whether you're a design enthusiast or simply seeking peace, the property provides a rare opportunity to stay in a genuine mid-century hotel—not just inspired by the past, but shaped by it. One of San Diego County’s Largest Private Pools Long before the current hotel was built, the site was home to the Borrego Valley Lodge , constructed in 1947 with 56 original bungalows. To serve its guests, the lodge included what was then one of the largest privately owned swimming pools in San Diego County —a full Olympic-size pool with 25-yard lap lanes . Still in use today, the pool is split into two sections: a shallow wading area and a deeper section ideal for lap swimming. The pool is naturally heated (plans are underway to install solar heating), and temperatures are most comfortable March through October . The adjacent spa stays at a relaxing 102.5°F year-round . What Visitors Say “This property is a Mid-century modern historical hotel with lots of character. We had a very pleasant room on the upper floor, facing the pool… We had a nice dinner in the restaurant, good food and very friendly staff. The location is great, outside of the town and immediately next to the state park.” — Guest review, 2024 The Ideal Escape for Design Lovers Whether you're stopping in for a weekend or making it your basecamp for desert exploration, The Palms at Indian Head is more than a hotel. It’s a destination that captures the elegance of mid-century desert architecture , set against the dramatic landscape of Borrego Springs . From restored details and architectural significance to the sense of stillness that permeates the grounds, this is Mid-Century Modern Architecture Lodging at its most authentic.
The "Borrego Daze" exhibit at The Gallery at The Palms highlighted the vibrant and eclectic works of artist Debbie Gallerani.
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Geoff Allen, an award-winning plein air watercolor artist, has brought the iconic pool at The Palms at Indian Head to life.
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