32 DIGS.NET
| 8.26.22
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P R O F I L E | S O P H I E G O I N E A U
dress the interiors where classic features
such as recessed planters in the flooring
and banquet units in the dining room are
reminiscent of the Elrod House created
by John Lautner (1911-1994) for designer
Arthur Elrod in 1969 and the historic
Rancho Mirage property in Sunnylands
commissioned to Archibald Quincy Jones
(1913-1979) in 1963 and completed three
years later. "We incorporated a reverse
flow; instead of just the traditional indoor
to outdoor space, we brought more of the
outdoors inside," says Goineau.
Wood is omnipresent through the walnut
fluted paneling, overlapping ceilings,
thermally modified ash and pergola-like
overhead screens, bringing some cozi-
ness to every nook. Reference to Char-
lotte Perriand is visible through the box
shelf detailing with metal and colored
glass at the recessed bar, while the
retractable tambour doors on the cabin-
etry and shelving units are reminiscent of
1960s case pieces and maximized stor-
age elements found in desert-dwelling RV
culture. Green terrazzo flooring, pistachio
leather banquettes, cane rattan chairs,
vintage floral linens and Herman Miller's
oblong light fixtures adorn the restaurant
where every detail plays its part in the
holistic concept.
Outside, too, the story continues, with the
three surrounding patios and the build-
ing's steel overhanging cantilevers which
combine with glass walls that recall the
work of renowned midcentury architects
Harold Levitt (1921-2003) and Paul R.
Williams (1894-1980). "These features
created the recipe for scenes of parties
and gatherings in these unconfined
spaces," Goineau says. "That was the
essence I wanted to express."
"Coming out of the pandemic, the gain in
popularity and necessity of outdoor dining
made us shift our plans a bit midway
through the design phase," adds Garland.
"We negotiated with the city to expand the
sidewalk and street to provide extensive
outdoor dining space."
Both inside and outside, Porta Via in Palm
Desert transports guests on a rich visual
journey meant to awaken the senses.
sophiegoineau.com
