Wish You Were Here: Mojave Rosa
Joshua Tree is widely known for its panaromic vistas, oddly-shaped trees, and ethereal sunrises and sunsets. Melis and her family instantly felt at peace in this small desert town—so she took it upon herself to redesign a home here that would blend effortlessly into the sandy landscape.
1. Why did you decide to buy this particular home in Joshua Tree?
We love nature as a family. We had several day trips to different places like Idyllwild, Borrego Springs, and Green Valley Lake during Covid. We were looking for a vacation home with every visit.
We ended up falling in love with Joshua Tree and the wonderful national park there. We built great memories when we climbed the rock faces. We enjoyed countless picnics, watched magical sunsets, and stargazed at the beautiful night sky. Our kids especially hoped to repeat this experience, so it seemed the perfect place to have a getaway home.
Mojave Rosa had so much potential that we couldn’t pass it up. I could immediately see how we would transform the interior design of the house into a light, airy desert home that felt like a place we could always relax and recharge at.
2. What do you love about Joshua Tree and the desert? What are some of your favorite sights and local businesses?
It’s magical every time we visit. There is still so much to discover and enjoy in this tranquil desert town.
I highly recommend having lunch at La Copine. It’s secluded and intimate, located in the middle of nowhere, but so worth the extra 20-minute drive. They serve some of the most incredible food in that area. Other fun places to stop by for a bite to eat are Pappy and Harriet’s, which doubles as a music venue, and Natural Sister’s Cafe, which offers plant-based cuisine. Don’t forget to grab fresh sourdough and mouth-watering sweets from Luna Bakery.
For picking, thrifting, and grocery shopping, we stop by Acme 5 Home Store, Mojave Flea, and Holistic Ranch to find everything we need.
3. How does Mojave Rosa compare to other AirBnb rentals in Joshua Tree? How is it different?
Mojave Rosa is above all else, a serene sanctuary. As a home away from home, this house is designed to pull us out of our chaotic lives and give us permission to simply be—be ourselves and be 100% present for our loved ones. No matter how messy the outside world gets, this home never fails to bring us back to center. The moment my family enters through its doors, we instantly relax and take a deep breath. That feeling will never get old.
Mojave Rosa combines rustic reclaimed desert vibes with modern style on land that stretches 2.5 acres. Centrally located in the middle of Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree, this space is far enough from town to enjoy quiet solitude, but close enough in case you forget creamer for your morning coffee.
4. What was your source of inspiration when designing the space?
My wanderlust fuels my inspiration! During my travels, I’ve explored countless bustling markets. I’m always searching for little hidden gems at flea markets—you never know what you might find. I need to see and feel what I’m shopping for—it’s a much more personal experience than shopping online.
Mojave Rosa is a reflection of my love for traveling and the many beautiful things I’ve found along the way.
5. Tell us about the name, Mojave Rosa?
The name comes from the breathtaking roses that bloom from the cactuses that grow on our land. It’s incredible how something so vibrant, colorful, and full of life can spring from the dry desert soil. It only seems fitting to name our sanctuary after this remarkable flower.
6. What is your favorite architectural feature?
It’s impossible not to obsess over the high wooden ceilings, which open up the space and breathe life into the rest of the home. As a family, we like to play and lounge on the spacious outdoor patio, which has incredible views of the valley.
7. What do you love most about this home?
At 900 sq ft, the Mojave Rosa is on the smaller side but you wouldn’t know it by standing in it. It makes use of every inch of space and is intimate without feeling cramped. The house is built on 2.5 acres of desert—a giant piece of land that we can call our own and that feels very special. I love to wander around the property wrapped in my robe in the morning, spotting jackrabbits and other wildlife. It’s amazing.
8. Who is the space ideal for? How many people can enjoy it at one time?
This space is ideal for someone that can work remotely and still enjoy the beautiful surroundings in the desert.
It can accommodate four people comfortably. If you’re traveling in a larger party, there is a large sofa bed, bringing the capacity to six people.
9. What sort of activities can you participate in at Mojave Rosa?
Our desert oasis, Mojave Rosa, has everything your heart desires. Cool off in our cowboy tub or warm up in the hot tub. Lay down on the outdoor bed and stargaze for hours.
For an additional fee, book a private in-house sound bath, a yoga instructor, and massage.
10. What did you love most about making this space a home?
We wanted this home to feel like a quiet retreat.
The space is not only filled with handcrafted textiles and homewares from House No.23, but also includes beautiful art and rugs from my favorite small businesses like Upton Home, Morrow Soft Goods, and the special gems I find at flea markets. I used soothing shades to transform this 2-bedroom 1-bathroom into the sanctuary I knew it could be.
I didn’t want to just decorate this house. I wanted to live in it with my favorite pieces. We focused on mood and comfort and kept the neutral desert color palette. We hope others enjoy it as much as we do!
To find out more about Mojave Rosa or to book your next visit, click here: Mojave Rosa
