Lifted Wings

Drought-tolerant landscape takes cues from midcentury architecture

  • Twin Palms | Palm Springs, California

  • Sandy Swett & Red Door Pictures

This iconic, butterfly-roofed home, designed by celebrated midcentury architect William Krisel, needed a ‘wow’ curb-appeal worthy of the home’s original design, and an update to a ‘good enough’ backyard.

An intimate entry courtyard, along with a modern, spacious backyard now empowers guests to relax together. A lounge area that was shaded; an outdoor fire-pit for gathering; dining area; and a simple kitchen area for grilling was essential for this midcentury home.

Bold curb appeal starts with Krisel’s signature butterfly roof and a vibrant citrus-hued entry wall. Entering the courtyard you hear the mid-century modern falling water fountain, clean-lined hardscape, and sculptural cacti frame a modern outdoor ret
This William Krisel original gets a bold refresh with drought-tolerant desert landscaping and layered privacy walls. A custom Corten steel planter mirrors the butterfly roofline. A vibrant orange entry, breeze block details, and native plantings brin
Geometric poured concrete entry walk leads through a sculptural desert landscape of draught tolerant plants, golden barrel cacti and Corten steel planter elevate the curb appeal while honoring Krisel’s clean lines of midcentury architecture.
Sculptural landscaping and a Corten steel planter add drama to the butterfly-roofed façade, while breeze block and golden barrel cacti ground the home in classic Palm Springs style. This front yard proves drought-tolerant design can still deliver ser
This backyard transforms into a Palm Springs retreat with a crisp pool and raised spa, a raised cantilevered, shaded lounge area and vibrant pops of aqua and yellow add a playful midcentury twist, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Jaci
This backyard transforms into a Palm Springs retreat with a crisp pool and raised spa, a raised cantilevered, shaded lounge area and vibrant pops of aqua and yellow add a playful midcentury twist, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Jaci
A shaded lounge floats above warm decking, framing a view of the pool and raised spa beyond. Pops of yellow umbrellas and cool-toned seating create a lively, layered palette that’s equal parts leisure and luxury, nestled in a drought-tolerant Palm Sp
A bold tangerine wall anchors the scene while a raised deck pergola floats beside the pool, offering shade and style. Soft blue seating and a custom fire feature create a cozy gathering spot surrounded by lush hedges and mountain views.
Retro-inspired loungers pop beneath sunny yellow umbrellas, offering front-row seats to the spa and pool. Framed by lush hedges and mountain silhouettes, this vibrant setup captures classic Palm Springs leisure with a modern twist.
Midcentury magic in full effect. This William Krisel-designed home now boasts a backyard worthy of its architectural pedigree—woven loungers, striped towels, and bold yellow umbrellas invite you to soak in the scene. Framed by a sparkling pool, lush
Dining poolside never looked so fresh. This reimagined William Krisel home, revitalized by Michael Norpell, blends crisp architectural lines with a bold dose of retro charm. Shaded seating, colorful accents, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow make this
A classic William Krisel backyard reimagined by Michael Norpell into a modern resort-style escape. The clean geometry of the spa, the playful pop of yellow umbrellas, and vintage-inspired loungers bring a bright, Palm Springs energy to this mid-centu
Originally designed by William Krisel, this Palm Springs gem was reimagined by Michael Norpell into a modern-day oasis. The clean lines of the spa, bold umbrellas, and curated seating offer resort vibes at home—with the San Jacinto Mountains adding t
A fresh take on a William Krisel original—this poolside view highlights Michael Norpell’s clean, modern update. From the classic breeze block screen to the bold golden chimney, every element strikes a balance between iconic midcentury roots and conte
Crisp lines, cobalt skies, and a crystal-clear soak—this William Krisel-designed home, reimagined by Michael Norpell, turns the backyard into a Palm Springs daydream. Vintage breeze block, midcentury profiles, and curated pops of color bring the era
Crisp lines, cobalt skies, and a crystal-clear soak—this William Krisel-designed home, reimagined by Michael Norpell, turns the backyard into a Palm Springs daydream. Vintage breeze block, midcentury profiles, and curated pops of color bring the era
Step through the side gate of this William Krisel classic, and you’re greeted by a curated cactus garden and sculptural water feature—both playing off the home’s crisp geometry. Redesigned by Michael Norpell, the entry experience balances drama and s
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