You sit on your outdoor terrace with coffee and the newspaper while the morning sun bathes the Santa Rosa Mountains in peach-colored hues. A vibrant hummingbird hovers over a vine of scarlet bougainvillea. The leaves of a Palo Verde tree sway in time with the gentle breeze. You feel as though you are in paradise and in total harmony with nature.
This may be one of the visions the developers of The Reserve in Indian Wells had in mind when they envisioned a world-class, upscale golf and residential community attuned to the natural environment. Assuredly, the 780-acre retreat pays genuine homage to the natural desert setting, offering a treasure trove of nature’s riches to its residents.
And, on par with its low-density lifestyle, The Reserve also boasts an active trail program, dedicated open space, and a commitment to indigenous desert landscaping. From every angle, homes in this prestigious community feature spectacular desert views and panoramic mountain vistas — and often both.
Perhaps none more so than this exceptional Tuscan estate, which offers heavenly open-air amenities. Featuring more than 6,100 square feet of interior space, including a guest casita, the homeowners also take full advantage of the spacious outdoor areas on three sides of the estate. “The owners have entertained a lot since buying the house four years ago, and they prefer to host events in warm weather,” says Patty Clark, marketing director for The Reserve. Their entertaining style ranges from large garden parties and Easter gatherings for children and grandchildren to frequent business functions. “They often slide the doors open, using both the front courtyard and the back yard to take full advantage of the space,” Clark adds.
One exceptional highlight of the Tuscan-inspired villa with its superb mountain and canyon views is the use of water and stone throughout the custom water features and fountains. In the front entrance, a water feature replicates a stream, rippling alongside the front steps and courtyard. In the back of the residence, a multitiered pool
features flowing fountains, ponds, and a profusion of bougainvillea in its center. “The idea … was to have some upper-basin water casting down into the pool, emulating waterfalls and a ‘canyon-like’ feel,” explains John Steigerwaldt, landscape designer for the property.
Two bronze statuettes — one of a boy flying a kite and another of a boy about to throw a toy plane — lend elements of motion and play to the oasis-inspired surroundings. A stone bridge leading to the Jacuzzi also provides a natural barrier between the main pool and its shallows. Multilevel loggias finished with Camron stone decking are perfect for dining, conversing, or simply lounging in the sun or shade.
Protected by a high, wood-beamed ceiling, the outdoor living room offers a peerless ambiance for intimate relaxation. Wall sconces, an outdoor fireplace, and wicker furniture featuring deep seating embrace the space.
Desert flowers, trees, and cacti embellish every setting. The lushly designed outdoor space, with its incomparable backdrop of the mountains, is a constant reminder that the true beauty of a home may simply be found in nature.