Drift Palm Springs brings bold design to the Sonoran Desert, TMC Hospitality’s third property under the Drift Hotels moniker, alluring guests with picturesque and spacious accommodations; an upscale, breezy Baja inspired restaurant; and a resort-style pool with custom cabanas and mountain views. All of it in close proximity to architectural gems including Frey House II.
Set among the laidback lifestyle of downtown Palm Springs, the boutique property has been designed in collaboration with Folklore and Palm Springs-based o2 Architecture, and blends Spanish Colonial and Moorish desert architecture with midcentury design touches, as well as art and furniture by notable designers such as WAKA-WAKA and Sean Spellman.
In a nod to the hotel’s desert surroundings, earth tones and materials including steel and birch wood, contrast against a colour palette of rose and olive, which are further enhanced by handmade furnishings and décor from Mexican artisans including LUTECA, MINNA and Veta.
Room types range from studios to suites with up to four bedrooms, each designed for the modern traveller who appreciates beautiful and functional design. Some rooms boast mountain views, kitchens and living rooms, and spacious balconies or patios adorned with hammock chairs.
Two restaurants can be found at Drift Palm Springs: the Drift Pool Bar with daybeds and loungers, has views of the San Jacinto mountains and a menu of Beet Aguachile and Adobo Fish Tacos, whilst Maleza – helmed by chef Ysaac Ramirez (in partnership with Jorge Espindola and chef Cesar Pita of San José del Cabo-based Roots and Roads) is an all-day, upscale Baja restaurant featuring a sleek wrap around bar and floor-to-ceiling garage doors leading to a relaxed outdoor lounge.
Here, diners can enjoy family-style menu items such as the Braised Pork Shank with mole coloradito and the Chile Relleno made with vegan chorizo. Rare Mexican spirits, craft cocktails and Drift collaborations with Miller Family Vineyards and La Luna Mezcal, make for an interesting and refreshing beverage offering.
From pools to fire pits, evocative design and a relaxed desert lifestyle, Drift Palm Springs is a dashing addition to this famous city’s design hotel scene.
Drift Palm Springs Photography, Erin Feinblatt.
