Riviera Palm Springs: A Bohemian Getaway with a Retro Twist

Rose Ink Workshop's Award-Winning Reimagination of a Storied Hotel

The Riviera Palm Springs, dating back to the 1960s, is one of Palm Springs' most storied hotels. It has hosted glamorous guests from Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack to Marilyn Monroe, and most recently boasted a 1970s glam aesthetic. Rose Ink Workshop reimagined the space to coincide with modern-day Palm Springs, creating a series of vibrant and radiant public spaces that are both stylish and eclectic.

The design inspiration for this project came from the easy glamour of Slim Aaron's photographs. The new design emphasizes mid-century styles and vibrant playful colors with a sprinkling of retro nostalgia. The aim was to modernize the interiors while maintaining a sense of whimsy in the public areas, thereby tying the hotel's past and present together.

One of the unique properties of this design is the incorporation of an art collection that sets a fun, happy, and irreverent tone throughout all spaces. The inspiration for this collection ranges from desert landscapes to retro color palettes. This, along with the renovation of the lobby into an arcade of eclectic living rooms and the colorful facelifts given to three restaurants, sets this design apart from others.

The design also involved reconfiguring the reception and lobby area to create living rooms near the lobby lounge, providing guests with comfortable places to relax and have a drink. The luggage corridor was also updated with fun design elements, transforming it into a front-of-house experience.

Despite the challenges faced in sourcing local art, the designers managed to bring the spirit of Palm Springs into the design by looking for key artworks in local galleries. The renovation, which started in December 2015 and finished in November 2016, was a result of extensive research into Palm Springs' design history and the styles of other local hotels.

In conclusion, the Riviera Palm Springs is a testament to Rose Ink Workshop's ability to reimagine and transform a storied hotel into a modern-day bohemian getaway. The design's unique features and elements, from its vibrant colors and mid-century styles to its eclectic art collection, have not only brought the spirit of Palm Springs to life but also earned it a Silver A' Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design Award in 2017.