To get inspired and out of my self indulgent little burnt out funk I drove around Palm Springs checking out mid century exteriors and landscapes.

I know its a tad creepy.

I felt a little like a skeezy voyeur sneaking around slyly snapping shots of peoples houses.

The main thing featured at most places was rock – LOTS of rock. Xeriscape is what the fancy eco peeps call it…I think. Or hardscape? Well, whatever it is – decomposed granite, pebbles, river rock, boulders – its all the rage in this desert climate.

I do like the hedge of horsetail along the front of the above house. The darker green really pops against the exterior colors and creates a nice feeling of architecture against the rolling rock hill. Those grassy bushes are fluffy and nice, but a little randomly placed. KILLER giant cactus though.

LOVE the privacy block with the bright yellow door popping out…not much landscaping to speak of. But love, love, love the white and yellow combo.

This house was RAD. I wish I could have gotten some better shots but this giant truck was parked right in front of the place blocking the best angle. I love the exterior color combo of a pale gray/white and dark gray trim and black accents. The interior walkway had 4 ceiling fans going which was NUTS. I would love to see the interior of this place.

And the frosted garage door! What?? Awesome, but a little weird when you can see the cars. If it was empty and lite up, I bet it would be stunning.

Again more rock. More bushy things. Palm trees everywhere.

I really like these low round cactus’s lining the driveway. I saw a lot of these used around town and think its a great solution for the arid climate. The repetition, sculptural shape and minimal treatment of light gray rocks defining the planting bed is just the kind of modern look I would like to focus on.

Ahhhhhhhh, Palm Springs.

I love you.