A Wabi-Sabi Inspired Weekend Retreat in Joshua Tree
by OLIVIA LOPEZ on April 2, 2021
Tucked on a hillside overlooking Joshua Tree National Park is Villa Kuro, a minimalist Airbnb designed by Elaine Chao and Stanley Yang, founders of the renovation and redevelopment firm MINI INNO. The home had undergone a design restoration that harmonizes with the desert’s natural environment, creating a space filled with light-filled moments and earth-tone interiors.
Elaine Chao, the designer behind the residence, shares her philosophies behind building a wabi-sabi inspired weekend retreat.
“Our design philosophy for Villa Kuro was to create a peaceful and rejuvenating space where guests can take a break from city life and feel recharged.”
“We are inspired by nature and the home's desert surroundings. All the different colors and textures you see in the landscape throughout the day are prevalent in the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi: of finding beauty in imperfection and a reminder that we are all transient beings on this earth.”
“We gravitate to the beauty and history behind time-worn objects, so most objects and furniture are found from vintage shops and flea markets that we've been collecting through the years.”
“The minimal interior allows space to reflect and appreciate life's blessings and the simple joys of everyday life.”
Villa Kuro is located in Joshua Tree, California.