Stonewall Gardens is a senior living community created to address the needs of the aging lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) population in Palm Springs, Calif. Originally built in the 1950s as a bungalow-style resort, the formerly derelict property was completely redeveloped in a “down to the studs” renovation in 2014. The new facility includes a large main dining room, with al-fresco dining and an all-new commercial kitchen. Retaining the bungalow feel, Stonewall Gardens now consists of two one-bedroom apartments, two shared apartments, and twenty deluxe studios in a midcentury modern design.
Designed by O2 Architecture (Palm Springs, Calif.), Stonewall Gardens blends the midcentury design aesthetic of the original bungalow hotel with vibrant contemporary colors, retaining exposed wood beam ceilings, and creating large bathrooms with accessible showers. Each unit has new energy-efficient windows and HVAC, a private patio, and a flat screen television.
Lush landscaping, water features, and outdoor gathering/entertainment areas complete the resort-style feeling. A large outdoor grill and kitchen adjacent to the dining room provide open-air dining and food preparation options.
Interior designer Kelly Levy chose a palette of cool grays and blues for the exterior stucco and trim, white interior walls and ceilings, and natural stone for the fireplace and accent walls inside and out. The dining room and lounge feature contemporary furniture selected to emphasize the midcentury roots of the building while providing comfortable yet efficient seating and dining. Artwork and patio furniture are in bold shades of orange and blue, energizing the space. Dramatic wall treatments, large shade canopies, and grey bamboo flooring add to the clean, modern atmosphere.
Stonewall Gardens is situated close enough to the vibrant Uptown Design District of Palm Springs, while still being quiet and secure. The Uptown area is emerging as a neighborhood with new and existing restaurants, hotels, and other businesses for residents to enjoy.
