A light led us to Hotel Wren—to be specific, the sculptural yet airy pendants by a Sydney-based artist that hang in the guest rooms (which Margot wrote about here). Muted, earthy, and serene, the newly renovated 1940s roadside motel in the high desert, “amidst the blooming ocotillo and palo verde trees,” is filled with considered, artist-made details like that. Have a look:
Photography via Hotel Wren, except where noted.
Above: Located 10 minutes from the north entrance to Joshua Tree, Hotel Wren began as a classic roadside motor lodge. It’s been redesigned for modern desert stays by LA-based Manola Studio, helmed by Jessica Pell. “Wren is both a love letter to the desert and a quiet expression of the studio’s values,” according to the studio, “shaped by story and intention, inspired by nature and nuance. Intuitive, grounded, and attuned to place, Wren invites guests into a gentle dialogue between self and space.”Above: This dining room, and the living area above, are actually in The Wren House, a separate midcentury house “perched on the northwestern edge of the Hotel Wren property, overlooking the open desert and the Pinto Mountains,” available for stays.Above: A vintage mix in Wren House.
