Exterior of Kimpton Rowan
Palm Springs is known for many things, from its historical architecture to its many small boutique hotels. But for those who want to experience the best of Palm Springs with all of the luxury and none of the kitsch, there isn't a better place to stay than the Kimpton Rowan. Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, in the tallest building in the city (it's seven stories high), the Rowan features the only rooftop pool in all of Palm Springs.
The famed rooftop pool
Offering recently-updated rooms, four restaurants and bars, and other amenities, design lovers will appreciate all this hotel has to offer, especially for those who prefer a more full-service experience. Here's a look inside this fantastic place to stay.
The Vibe
The open, airy lobby
Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs General Manager Peggy Trott tells me the vibe of the hotel is "equal parts lively and relaxing. It's both free-spirited and grounded. When you step inside the lobby, you are met with a refreshing welcome that sets the tone for the overall guest experience. Everyday commotions fade away, and a renewing sense of calm washes over you."
The lobby, which has double-height ceilings, is flooded with light, making for a very welcoming feeling, giving guests that open and airy feeling of the desert retreat.
Designed to feel like a super chic living room, Trott tells me the space features a mix of both custom furniture and vintage finds. "The two blue linen sofas, glass and brass coffee tables, travertine side table, and oval-shaped Calacatta communal table are examples of custom-fabricated pieces. Vintage pieces, like the Richard Neutra lounge chairs, an assortment of ceramics, and the De Sede Terrazza sofas under the grand stair provide accent and added character to the aesthetic."
The macrame owl
Another homage to the locale is the 16-foot macramé owl that hangs behind the reception desk, as both macramé and owls are symbolic of mid-century modern design.
The Rooms At The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
A queen room
One of the things that Kimpton Rowan is known for is its fantastic views in the majority of its 153 guest rooms, explains Trott. "The towering San Jacinto Mountains rise right in front of you, and there are views of the Coachella Valley desert landscape as far as the eye can see, not only from the rooftop but from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the guest rooms and throughout the hotel."
Camels and cool design
The rooms feature contemporary furniture that pays homage to the historic location. "At the headboard wall hangs a framed map of the trails nearby the hotel," notes Trott. "The nine-inch-tall camel statue in the closet is The Rowan's closet surprise. Every Kimpton has a closet surprise, a personal touch in the guest room closets to surprise and delight guests, each an unexpected element with a local connection or unique story. The camel statue is a playful nod to the outlandish, urban legend California law that says it is illegal to walk a camel down Palm Canyon Drive between the hours of 4:00 to 6:00pm. Palm Canyon Drive is a major thoroughfare that runs through Downtown Palm Springs and one of The Rowan's cross streets," says Trott.
While rooms weren't fully renovated in 2023—they were updated with new custom closets, new nightstands and new rugs.
Notably, the Roman Clay painted walls feel fresh and modern yet pay homage to the dirt and mountains surrounding the city, giving the room a retreat-inspired feel. The tile headboard also feels inspired by the local modernist style, yet still feels new and luxe.
The Bathrooms
A Japanese-style bathrom
The bathrooms are the true showstoppers. Drawing inspiration from Japanese design, they feature elegant white soaking tubs perfect for a classic hotel experience, along with separate showerheads in an open layout. A distinct washing and toilet area adds to the functionality and sophistication. While many modern hotels, especially those with smaller rooms, are forgoing soaking tubs for simple shower spaces, this design choice truly enhances the guest experience.
The bathrooms also feature sunblock artwork in the bathrooms, which was chosen because Palm Springs has more than 300 days of sunshine per year. Trott notes, "The artwork depicts SPF 300 and a golden camel, appropriate for The Rowan with its rooftop pool atop Palm Springs' tallest building."
Old And New
The Rowan is truly about the best combination of old and new, allowing guests to experience the old world of the city—both modern and modernist according to Trott. "The Rowan brings something to life that is inspired by Palm Springs' iconic, mid-century modern architecture and design, realized in a contemporary way, while also celebrating the organic beauty of the desert."
