Few off-grid experiences feel as in touch with their surroundings as Folly Mojave does. Designed by the LA-based multidisciplinary architect Malek Alqadi, the 200-acre wilderness retreat sits at the intersection of the untamed Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park and makes a bold architectural statement, inspired by the area’s earthy hues, rocky textures and surreal, Martian-like terrain. The property is the latest in hospitality brand Folly’s collection of secluded stays, which debuted near the town of Joshua Tree in 2018 with a contemporary cabin also designed by Alqadi.
Folly Mojave
‘Folly Mojave acts as a nature-derived, divine space, welcoming guests seeking wellness, healing and self-reflection,’ says Alqadi. The property boasts three standalone structures, labelled suites, that embody the four elements of nature and seem to appear and disappear into the landscape in the harsh daylight. The Water suite, which seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor realms, boasts a regal bed, well-equipped kitchen, lofty ceilings, lavish walk-in shower, eco-conscious solar utilities, premium amenities and an open-air sky terrace that acts as a fully operational bedroom for those interested in observing the Milky Way at night.
Overnight suites at Folly Mojave
The Water suite at Folly Mojave features a façade of sand-mixed, board-formed concrete with charred wood details. The Folly Mojave’s design was influenced by the ancient architecture of Alqadi’s birthplace, Jordan, and Peru’s chullpas towers
Overnight suites at Folly Mojave
The two other suites – Fire + Stone and Wind – deliver analogous experiences, framing awe-inspiring vistas through vast windows. Each independent structure flaunts a raw, monolithic allure, with blackened steel accents punctuating their concrete shells. Reclaimed wood, charred using the ancient Japanese technique of shou sugi ban, adds a complementary texture.
The choice of materials speaks to the desert’s resilience, a subtle nod to the connection between human ingenuity and the natural world. Solar panels come in the shape of a tree-like form ‘planted’ next to each suite, enhancing energy efficiency while inviting guests to experience innovative technologies firsthand. ‘Folly Mojave strives to operate as a self-sufficient microgrid, with the sun reigning as the primary energy source – truly disconnecting from external utilities,’ notes Alqadi.
Overnight suites at Folly Mojave
Overnight suites at Folly Mojave
Overnight suites at Folly Mojave
Overnight suites at Folly Mojave
There is also a fourth outdoor structure, the Mara Pavilion, inspired by the Oasis of Mara (one of five palm oases in Joshua Tree National Park and first settled by the indigenous Serrano people). Designed for various self-care and wellness activities, offerings include movie nights, yoga classes, sound baths and intimate gatherings. Within the pavilion itself is a sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool and heated pool, while therapists can provide a range of holistic spa treatments from a specially curated menu.
And for those seeking a breathtaking desert dining experience, Folly Mojave boasts a private outpost, located a short drive or hike away, which offers campfire dinners and s’mores at dusk.
Mara Pavilion at Folly Mojave
Mara Pavilion at Folly Mojave
follycollection.com, malekalqadi.com
A version of the Wallpaper* USA 400 appears in the August 2024 issue of Wallpaper*, a guide to Creative America, available to download free when you sign up to our daily digest of news, in print on newsstands, on the Wallpaper* app on Apple iOS, and to subscribers of Apple News +. Subscribe to Wallpaper* today
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