The Wheelhouse is a unique mid-century-meets-funky high-desert retreat in trending Twentynine Palms. Set on 12 private acres just minutes from the Joshua Tree National Park 29 Palms entrance, this architectural ranch blends rustic luxury with iconic indoor-outdoor living, where every corner invites discovery. Enjoy open desert views, a pool and spa, fire pit, and expansive patios perfect for creative retreats, intimate weddings, or quiet restoration with family and friends.
The space
The former residence for television personality and longtime host of California’s Gold, Huell Howser.
“As soon as you drive in, it’s like you’ve entered an art exhibit." -Mark
F E A T U R E S
✔ Swimming pool
✔ Round hot tub
✔ Crock Pot
✔ Yoga mats
✔ Bathrobes
✔ Pet friendly
✔ Gas BBQ grill
✔ Gourmet kitchen
✔ Sculpture garden
✔ Linens by West Elm
✔ Outdoor dining table
✔ Light-filled living room
✔ Vintage two-seat swing
✔ 3 bedrooms / 2.5 baths
✔ Indoor/outdoor living space
✔ Indoor/outdoor stereo system
✔ Original vintage decor throughout
✔ 2,200 sq. ft. ranch-style house
✔ Modern steel fence surrounds the perimeter
✔ Host an intimate wedding
Nearby:
3 mins ➔ Stater Bros. Supermarket
5 mins ➔ Kitchen In The Desert
5 mins ➔ Campbell Hill Bakery
8 mins ➔ Mas O Menos
15 mins ➔ Downtown Joshua Tree
15 mins ➔ 29 Palms entrance to park
20 mins ➔ Transmission Art
30 mins ➔ Red Dog / Pappy & Harriet’s
💬 Guest Reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Jan. 2026) "From the moment we discovered this listing, we knew we'd found something special—and our stay exceeded even our highest expectations. This mid-century modern gem strikes the perfect balance: tucked away in peaceful seclusion with that rare feeling of complete privacy, yet surprisingly convenient to grocery stores and essentials. The proximity to the national park made it ideal for our weekend getaway, letting us maximize our time exploring without lengthy drives."
Enhance your stay with a sound bath, yoga class, massage, horseback riding, a hike with mini donkeys, a private chef, and more. Once your booking is confirmed, we’ll share a handpicked list of local experiences worth checking out.
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Locally managed by Desert Spirit.
@desertspiritproperties
B E D R O O M S
Linens by West Elm
King Bedroom - King bed, plus a chaise-style daybed that comfortably sleeps one additional guest, along with an en-suite bathroom highlighted by a unique sink crafted from vintage street lamp glass.
Queen Bedroom - Picture windows and a shared bathroom showcasing original 1950s green tile and vintage fixtures.
Full Bedroom - This room features a large-screen TV and a writing desk, with a curtain-style door closure. It sits adjacent to the swivel glass door sunroom, and guests may pass through this space to access the sunroom in a railroad-style layout. Cozy and versatile, the room is furnished with a full-size bed. Plus, there’s a full-size foldable mattress.
L I V I N G R O O M
Settle in with a good book, a favorite podcast, or meaningful conversation while taking in the outdoor views. The light-filled living room features three owner-created art pieces, including a plywood triptych, a custom wood-based tripod lamp, and a tree light glowing in warm sunset hues.
K I T C H E N & D I N I N G
The gourmet kitchen features a four-seat breakfast nook, stainless steel appliances, the original 1950s stove (please note that three of the four burners are active but not to worry. We've added a Cuisinart portable electric induction burner), Crock Pot and generous counter space, with a door that opens directly outdoors for effortless alfresco dining. Adjacent, the mid-century dining area showcases a marble-top table surrounded by six Eames shell chairs, with sliding glass doors leading to an open patio and wide-open scenic desert mountain views.
B A T H R O O M S
The home features 2.5 bathrooms, each thoughtfully appointed with a mix of bespoke vintage details and refined modern finishes. A unique outdoor half bath is conveniently located by the pool, adding both ease to the indoor-outdoor living experience.
O U T D O O R S
Outdoors is where the home truly distinguishes itself. Huell Howser’s original industrial accents remain decades after installation, giving the property the feel of a living sculpture garden. An architect-designed paneled steel fence by Belzberg Architects frames the perimeter, with each panel thoughtfully set at the same angle as the surrounding mountains—creating a striking dialogue between architecture and landscape.
The back patio opens to a full-length swimming pool with a Baja tanning shelf and an adjacent round outdoor spa surrounded by chaise lounge chairs. A vintage two-seat swing, tucked just off the living area, offers a serene place to take in the desert views. Also outdoors is a large alfresco dining area, complemented by a gas BBQ grill and an indoor-outdoor stereo system, an exceptional setting for elevated desert entertaining and an intimate wedding.
Brief history of The Wheelhouse
Originally built in 1952, The Wheelhouse was purchased in the 1990s by television personality Huell Howser, who transformed it into a deeply personal desert retreat. He commissioned the sculptural steel fence by Belzberg Architects and repurposed found materials including quarry stones, millstones, and industrial elements into artful features throughout the property. Five century-old millstones encircle the pool, giving the home its name.
After Howser’s passing, the home was acquired by artist Joan Robey, whose sculptural work harmonizes seamlessly with the property’s aesthetic. She thoughtfully revitalized the home, elevating comfort while preserving its mid-century, art-filled spirit. Howser’s curiosity and love for California’s landscapes continue to shape The Wheelhouse today.
It’s a rare and restorative setting for a weekend with family, friends, or colleagues, or an extended stay dedicated to writing, creating, and slowing down far from the pace of city life.
We hope you savor every moment of your stay and take time to appreciate the details, stories, and artistry woven throughout the property. We’re confident the experience will be inspiring, memorable, and well worth the journey.
Guest access
Please make yourself at home with access to the entire property and its 12 acres of private gated land.
Other things to note
Weddings & Production: Film & production, photoshoots, and intimate weddings by inquiry only. Prior approval, permits, and applicable fees required.
Pets: We love dogs! Please add your dog to your reservation. No other types of animals are permitted.
Pool & Spa: Maintenance is performed twice a week, taking about 10 minutes, and will be done in the outdoor area only. The pool is unheated, but the spa is fully heated and ready to enjoy, no extra charge.
Early Check-In & Late Check-Out: Available for $50/hr with prior approval and subject to availability.
High chair & Pack & Play: provided upon request
We’re always updating the property with new amenities and design upgrades. Some photos may not yet show our latest improvements.
Airports:
Palm Springs, CA (PSP) - 1 hour
Ontario, CA (ONT) - 2 hours
Los Angeles (LAX) - 3 hours
Registration Details
VHR007
