Sandora Domes: Restoring an Iconic Piece of Joshua Tree Architecture
PROJECT OVERVIEW:
Some projects are renovations. Some are restorations. And some become something much bigger than either.
Formerly known as the Bonita Domes, Sandora Domes is a one-of-a-kind Joshua Tree property spanning approximately two acres, featuring multiple structures, a pool, outdoor gathering spaces, and its iconic earthen domes. Originally designed and built by artist and healer Lisa Starr, the property reflects Joshua Tree’s unique history of alternative architecture and earth-based building.
Purchased as the owners’ first short-term rental investment, the property needed more than a cosmetic renovation. Years of exposure had resulted in exterior damage, water intrusion, worn plaster, outdated systems, and a guest experience that needed to be completely reimagined.
Our vision was to preserve what made the domes special while transforming the property into a refined, Moroccan-inspired desert hospitality experience.
Restoration Meets Elevated Hospitality
The project centered around finding the balance between preserving the soul of the original architecture and creating a modern, luxury guest experience.
Key elements of the transformation included:
- Earthen Dome Restoration:Â Repairing exterior damage, addressing waterproofing and moisture intrusion, and restoring damaged interior plaster while preserving the original character of the structures.
- Moroccan-Inspired Design:Â Introducing warm earth tones, natural textures, handcrafted materials, and organic forms that complement the existing architecture.
- Sunrise & Sunset Suites:Â Developing two distinct guest experiences within the property's two primary living suites, using individual styling and color palettes to give each space its own personality.
- Hammam-Inspired Bathhouse:Â Creating the emotional centerpiece of the property with a spa-like experience inspired by traditional Moroccan hammams.
- Handcrafted Materials & Details:Â Incorporating handmade Zia zellige tile, custom fixtures, a Turkish marble hammam sink, and specialty finishes selected specifically for the earthen architecture.
- Full Project Management:Â Coordinating contractors, plaster specialists, tile installers, electricians, plumbers, cabinet fabricators, landscape crews, finish carpenters, and specialty trades throughout the restoration.
A Luxury Experience Rooted in Authenticity
Rather than hiding the imperfections and organic character of the original domes, the design celebrates them.
The curves, hand-finished surfaces, natural textures, and connection between architecture and landscape became an essential part of the final experience.
The goal wasn't simply to create a beautiful property. It was to create a place that feels transportive, authentic, and memorable — a hospitality experience that could not be replicated anywhere else.
The Hammam Bathhouse
At the heart of Sandora Domes is a custom hammam-inspired bathhouse designed around ritual, relaxation, and sensory experience.
Handmade zellige tile, custom details, specialty fixtures, and natural materials come together to create a space that feels deeply connected to the property's Moroccan-inspired desert aesthetic.
Every material and design decision was selected with the goal of creating more than a beautiful room — but an experience guests would remember long after their stay.
The Transformation
Completed over 9 months, the transformation of Bonita Domes into Sandora Domes involved restoration, design development, project management, and extensive collaboration between the owners, tradespeople, craftspeople, consultants, and creative professionals.
The result is a distinctive desert hospitality destination that honors the history of its architecture while introducing a completely new chapter for the property.
Sandora Domes isn't simply a restored property. It's a celebration of architecture, craftsmanship, hospitality, and the beauty of doing things differently.
