Connie Etemadi
Photo Credit: ZumStudio
Joshua Tree has no shortage of striking vacation rentals, but few blend architectural heritage and desert minimalism quite like Villa Paros. Tucked against the Bartlett Mountains on a private canyon-backed lot, this new retreat draws inspiration from the timeless architecture of the Greek islands while embracing the rugged character of the high desert.
The project comes from Ciel Homes, the design-and-development studio founded by Andrew Lawlor and Chad Krenzke. Working alongside Ciel Interiors, the team set out to create a space that feels rooted in its surroundings; not just visually, but in a way that guests can experience the land.
Rather than going ultra-modern, Villa Paros takes cues from Mediterranean villages: smooth white stucco, natural stone façades, exposed wood joists, and reclaimed materials sourced from Greece and Turkey. “We wanted every surface to tell a story,” says Ciel Interiors founder Mervé Krenzke. “The idea was to design a home that feels lived-in, even on your first visit.”
Photo Credit: ZumStudio
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the chaos of life, especially when you live in a big city where every sleek glass building is yet another clone. Vacations are a chance to get away from hollow living spaces by tapping into culture and craft. Villa Paros wants visitors to really take in their surroundings and feel the landscape’s beauty rather than simply seeing it.
Guests can enjoy the desert views with a 30-foot sliding glass door that takes away the barriers between the home and its surroundings. Whether it’s basking in the glow of the light over the micro-vineyard, enjoying a poolside afternoon, or looking at the canyons on the horizon, each moment feels intentional.
Villa Paros is more than a boutique vacation rental in California. The home and its views allow guests to slow down and feel the rhythm of the atmosphere. As the light filters over the polished concrete floors and the scent of native plants drifts through the air, travelers are immersed in a sensory experience that feels both grounding and unforgettable.
Photo Credit: ZumStudio
Villa Paros is also part of a growing shift in Joshua Tree, with rentals designed to feel like cultural experiences rather than generic short-term stays. The Mediterranean influence is clear, yet the home still respects the desert that frames it. It is a thoughtful mix: the whitewashed charm of the Mediterranean balanced with the raw beauty of the Mojave.
For Ciel Homes, the project reflects more than just one property. Villa Paros is part of a broader philosophy that values authenticity and craft over trends. Travelers today want places that mean something, and Villa Paros offers exactly that: a desert home built to foster reflection, connection, and a lasting sense of place.
You can follow the latest from Ciel Homes and Ciel Interiors on Instagram.