The Kellogg Doolittle Residence: An Architectural Wonder in Joshua Tree
Tucked away in the serene landscape of Joshua Tree, California, the Kellogg Doolittle Residence is the pinnacle of Organic Architecture. Known by various names, including The Kellogg House, The Doolittle House, and The High Desert Home, this extraordinary dwelling adjacent to Joshua Tree National Park is a marvel of design and craftsmanship. It is the brainchild of renowned architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg and was commissioned by the artist couple Beverly "Bev" Doolittle and Jay Doolittle in 1988. The house, a labor of love and creativity, took over twenty-six years to reach its completion in 2014.
The journey to create this masterpiece began with Kellogg’s vision and the Doolittles’ unwavering support. The construction of the exterior stretched from 1988 to 2001, with the couple moving in during 2001. Despite occupying the home, interior work continued until the residence was finally sold in 2014. This extended timeline allowed Kellogg and his master craftsman, John Vugrin, to pour their hearts and souls into every aspect of the design and build.
Kellogg’s reputation as a key innovator of Organic Architecture, a movement he advanced after his time with Frank Lloyd Wright, is well-deserved. His prior works, such as the Onion House in Hawaii, the Yen House in La Jolla, and the Hoshino Chapel in Japan, all showcase his ability to harmonize structures with their natural surroundings. The Kellogg Doolittle Residence is widely considered his magnum opus, embodying the essence of organic design on a grand scale.
The home’s location on a set of ancient granite boulders facing southward into the national park is nothing short of spectacular. The structure itself defies conventional architectural norms, with no traditional walls or framing. Instead, twenty-six enormous cantilevered concrete columns create the interior space, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding boulders. This highlights Kellogg’s innovative approach and also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, despite the imposing materials.
John Vugrin’s role in the creation of this residence cannot be overstated. Arriving in 1994, Vugrin dedicated two decades to perfecting the interior, crafting everything from the furniture to the lighting fixtures. His expertise in materials including wood, marble, stone, and metal transformed Kellogg’s vision into a tangible reality, elevating the home to a level of artistry that few can fathom.
The Kellogg Doolittle Residence is more than just a house; it is a beautiful blend of architecture and nature. The lack of a strict budget, the absence of time constraints, and the perfect alignment of client and artist allowed for the creation of a home that could never be replicated. The Doolittles’ patience and resources gave Kellogg and Vugrin the freedom to explore their creative boundaries, resulting in what can only be described as the "Director’s Cut of homes."
One cannot help but be awestruck by the unique features of the home. The boulders, millions of years old, remain in their natural positions both inside and outside the residence. The continuous stone floor starts at the front gate and extends throughout the home, creating a seamless transition between the natural environment and the living space. The home’s orientation and extensive use of glass provide unparalleled views of the desert landscape and night sky, offering a daily spectacle of sunrises, sunsets, and starry nights.
The Kellogg Doolittle Residence stands as a timeless piece of architecture that harmonizes with the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary potential of Organic Architecture. For those interested in experiencing this architectural marvel, it is available to book on Airbnb, providing a rare opportunity to live within a piece of art that tells a story of creativity and collaboration unlike any other.
To explore more about this incredible residence, visit the official Kellogg Doolittle House website. For an in-depth tour, check out the articles on Architectural Digest, Business Insider, and Time Out.
