The exterior of a 1966 midcentury home in Palm Springs with desert landscaping.

Inside a Palm Springs Marvel: A 1966 Midcentury Gem Revitalized with Sci-Fi Flair

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Written by John Oliver

2026-09-29

In the heart of Palm Springs, California, stands an extraordinary example of midcentury architecture reimagined for modern luxury. The expansive residence at 650 E Tachevah Drive, originally crafted by designer Howard Lapham in 1966, boasts a sprawling 9,445 square feet. Recently, a visionary real estate developer and his partner charged interior designer Jessica Ayromloo with revitalizing this iconic property, known for its impressive 12 bedrooms and grand entertaining spaces.

Ayromloo faced the challenge of managing the grandiose interior, particularly the 60-foot-long living room. “They’re enormous,” she remarked, likening the space to a boutique hotel lobby, thus prioritizing intimate social interaction within the vastness.

Living room with modern furniture and large windows in a Palm Springs home.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

The living area features bold arrangements of Pierre Paulin chairs and the coveted B&B Italia’s Camaleonda modular sofa, to invite more intimate moments. Ayromloo designed the layout to balance views of the pool and fireplace, making it a perfect setting for social gatherings.

For those interested in architecture merging sci-fi flair with modern design, discover 7 innovative multi-generational homes worldwide showcasing unique styles and creative uses of materials.

Kitchen area featuring sleek cabinets and a central island with stools.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

A Cinematic Masterpiece

In the Movie Colony neighborhood, this home thrives on Ayromloo’s cinematic vision, inspired by sets from iconic films like “Barbarella”. Mirrored surfaces and metallic finishes abound, creating drama and intrigue. In the living room, a metal-paneled fireplace pairs with reflective walls and amorphous coffee tables, punctuated by a custom, room-length rug.

Spacious bedroom with a large bed, modern decor, and sliding glass doors.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

Noteworthy are three disc-shaped sculptures by Nicholas Biddle, discovered partially at the Rhett Baruch Gallery. Their provocative forms nod to sci-fi cinema, adding an element of surprise and artistic flair.

Bathroom with elegant fixtures, a freestanding tub, and decorative plants.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

In the dining room, a glass-topped table with mirrored legs and a Slinky-like pendant light create playful optical illusions. The dramatic design is accentuated by a mirrored-mosaic Space Curtain, reminiscent of a disco era.

Dining area with a round table, contemporary chairs, and a view outside.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

Innovative Space Reconfiguration

The kitchen, redesigned for optimal flow, features a stove under a cut-glass, mosaic-tiled hood and a central island surrounded by Jetsons-inspired bar stools. A compromise on the kitchen’s palette led to a unique desaturated pistachio hue, a decision reflecting both client desire and designer vision.

Home office space with a desk, chair, and creative wall art.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

Guest rooms continue the pistachio theme, adorned with Flavor Paper wallpaper, integrating geometric patterns that complement the silver bed frames and linens. In contrast, the family room features artwork by Ozzie Juarez from Frieze, introducing a vibrant color palette.

Outdoor patio with comfortable seating and a modern fireplace feature.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

Palm Springs Interior Design Transformation

The primary bedroom exudes Barbarella-inspired elegance with its custom white-lacquer bed, complemented by chainmail curtains and metallic accents. In a standout powder room, silver mosaic tiles replaced gold, creating a disco ball effect.

Swimming pool with surrounding deck area and view of desert landscape.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

Outdoor and Finishing Touches

Outside, the iridescent mosaic tiles provide a luminous backdrop for the Artemide Alphabet of Light, artfully displaying the home’s address. The whimsical palette extends to the separate pool house, echoing the playful vibes with iridescent pink tiles and transparent furniture.

Cozy lounge area with bookshelves, plush seating, and warm lighting.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

The entryway features freshly painted peach melba doors that hint at the vibrant thematic continuity within. By the koi ponds, visitors pass through these doors, marked by sculptural handles unexpectedly discovered to be a 1990s Ikea collaboration.

Entryway with unique architectural detailing and modern art pieces.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

This Palm Springs home stands as a beacon of style, deliriously mixing midcentury authenticity with audacious sci-fi aesthetics, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.

Decorative outdoor veranda with sculptural elements and hanging lights.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

The entrance’s custom vertical lights set the tone for the playful and luxurious interiors awaiting inside, thanks to an exquisite interior design makeover.

Stylish media room with large screen and contemporary seating arrangement.
jessica Ayromloo palm springs house

Source: wallpaper.com

Frequently asked questions

What is the size of the Palm Springs home?

The residence at 650 E Tachevah Drive boasts a sprawling 9,445 square feet.

Who was responsible for the revitalization of the Palm Springs home?

Interior designer Jessica Ayromloo was charged with revitalizing the iconic property by a visionary developer and his partner.

How did the designer manage the 60-foot living room?

Jessica Ayromloo designed the layout to balance views of the pool and fireplace, prioritizing intimate social interaction within the vast space.