Sylvestre, a vacation home rental in the Morongo Valley, California

Desert Minimalism Defined by Passive House Principles

Designed by Jojo Steinberg with architect Trent Laughton of not|not Architecture, a builder and architect focused on passive houses, Sylvestre was conceived as a sustainable cocoon. With a commitment to energy efficiency, the home is a modern, minimalist homage to the landscape, ensuring a quiet, thermally consistent sanctuary regardless of the weather outside. The aesthetic is organic and grounding, utilizing a neutral palette and warm textures to invite deep relaxation and contemplation.

The home centers around an open-plan living area, with a fully equipped modern kitchen, three private bedrooms, and spa-like bathrooms. There is an intentional absence of television to encourage rest and connection.

Five private acres of open desert and panoramic mountain views define the outdoor experience. The space immerses guests in the landscape with multiple areas for gathering. A generous, built-in barbecue and dining table invite long outdoor meals. The heated cowboy pool is perfect for refreshing dips, while the separate outdoor soaking tub and shower offer a self-care ritual under the vast desert sky.

What we love

We love how the rigorous Passive House design creates a deep, sustainable silence that turns this home into a true sanctuary. The best spot to watch the nature show is from the outdoor soaking tub, immersed in the quiet of the landscape.

Layout

This vacation home for rent in Morongo Valley sleeps up to eight guests. The open-plan living and dining space offers direct access to the outdoors via sliding glass doors. The layout includes three private bedrooms, two with king beds and one with a queen bed. There are two full bathrooms and one half bathroom. Outdoors you'll find a generous dining table, the heated cowboy pool, and a private outdoor soaking tub and shower. An additional queen air mattress is available, allowing for up to eight guests maximum.

Experiences

Guests can arrange for private chef dinners, in-home massage or energy sessions, and private yoga or breathwork classes. Guided desert hikes and astronomy tours with local experts are also available.

Good to know

The road access is mostly paved, with the final short stretch being dirt and sand, which is accessible to most standard vehicles. Please note there are no televisions to encourage a quiet, disconnected stay. Two well-behaved dogs are welcome for a fee of $125 per stay. The desert is alive with nature, so please keep all doors closed and food sealed.

Amenities & services

Fully equipped kitchen, heating/air conditioning, fireplace, linens and towels provided, wifi, outdoor soaking tub, outdoor shower, heated cowboy pool, outdoor dining, barbecue, pet friendly (for a fee), washer/dryer, self check-in

Around

The home is ideally located to explore the High Desert’s design and cultural gems. It is a short, 12-minute drive to Desert Hot Springs. Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace, a legendary music venue, is only 18 minutes away. For cultural and shopping excursions, Downtown Palm Springs is 24 minutes by car, offering celebrated mid-century modern architecture and design-led boutiques. Joshua Tree Village and the National Park entrance are also a convenient 24 minutes away. A car is necessary for exploring the wider area.