In 1922, the heirs to the Pierce Arrow Motor Company–regarded as the “American Rolls-Royce”–tapped Santa Barbara architect and Spanish Colonial Revival specialist, George Washington Smith, to design this hedged two-acre estate, personified by architectural detailing and antiques that spared no expense. Ingleside arrived in Hollywood social circles as Ruth Hardy’s invitation-only hideaway, with Elizabeth Taylor, Marlon Brando, and Marilyn Monroe just a handful of fabled icons signing the register. Decades later, owner Mel Haber ushered in a 1970s renaissance, restoring and opening the Inn to the public, and adding Melyvn’s restaurant and lounge.
Deep in Old Palm Springs, the Birge family builds a Spanish Colonial Revival estate deep in Old Palm Springs. For the heirs to the motor company considered the American Rolls-Royce, only a grand setting would do, filled with antiques and relics unearthed by their world travels.
Consummate hostess of Palm Springs, Ruth Hardy refashions the property as her own personal club. Stays were by invitation only; dinner guests upon approval. Among her list of regulars were Clark Gable, Salvador Dali, and Elizabeth Taylor.
The Inn is purchased by Winston S. Cowgill III, a San Franciscan regular from a well-known banking family.
An enchanted Melvyn Haber purchases the property and undergoes a restoration, adding a namesake restaurant and lounge.
After the passing of Mel Haber, San Francisco-based PlumpJack Group, co-founded by Governor Gavin Newsom, undertakes a painstaking restoration and modernization.
A new heyday begins for a storied hideaway as Proper Hospitality assumes management and operation.
Ingleside Inn is renamed to Ingleside Estate – staying true to its original identity as a social club situated on a former private estate.
Ingleside Estate was built in 1922 as a Spanish Colonial Revival residence for the heirs of the Pierce-Arrow Motor Company. The property’s original design and architecture have been carefully preserved.
Over the years, Ingleside became a favored desert retreat for Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and executive Ruth Hardy. Guests today can feel that storied Hollywood connection in every courtyard and terrace.
Originally a private estate, it transformed into an adult-only inn and later expanded under the ownership of Mel Haber in the mid-century era—adding Melvyn’s restaurant and boutique accommodations. Today, the estate blends modern comfort with historic elegance.
Guests can still enjoy original features like wrought-iron gates, exposed beams, vintage casitas, courtyard fountains, and classic Spanish tile floors—each preserved and restored as part of our heritage.
Ingleside maintains its original sense of place through curated décor, storytelling through guest orientation, and thoughtful design that evokes old Palm Springs glamour with historic intent. For details about current property design, see our About page.
Yes. Portions of the property—including select bungalows and common courtyards—retain the same architectural footprint as during Hollywood’s golden age. While rooms are not individually named, the historic spirit is intact throughout.
Absolutely. Guests interested in learning more can explore our on-site history materials, including photography and tribute collections. For broader historical context, visit our History page or ask a team member during your stay.
200 W Ramon Rd
Palm Springs, CA 92264
Front Desk: 1 (760) 325 0046
Reservations: 1 (760) 325 0046
info@inglesideestate.com
