Palm Springs is a sun-soaked playground of iconic mid-century modern architecture and flair—a retro dreamland where sleek lines flirt with vibrant vintage vibes.

Standing boldly among Coachella Valley’s architectural gems is the famous Villa Sierra. Oh, you know it—or at least you’ve stopped mid-scroll to double-tap its Insta-famous entrance. A total showstopper known for its audacious pop of color: "That Pink Door”

Lovingly nicknamed, this powerhouse pink feature has captured the hearts of design enthusiasts, travelers, and influencers alike. Imagine it: an unapologetically bubblegum pink door set against a crisp white façade framed by swaying desert palms and the San Jacinto Mountains. It’s a dream, and now the undisputed queen of photo ops and countless selfies.

But seriously, how did a private residence’s front door become that Insta-famous?

Long before it was an Instagram star—and the unofficial diva of color expression—the house itself was a masterpiece.

Located in the prestigious Indian Canyons neighborhood, Villa Sierra is a sprawling desert ranch home designed by James H. McNaughton. A television set designer turned architect, McNaughton created a home with dramatic proportions and clean lines that perfectly capture the glamorous, indoor-outdoor lifestyle of Palm Springs.

However, it was Colombian interior designer and photographer Moises Esquenazi and his partner who transformed this mid-century property into what it is today, including the now-iconic exterior door. At the urging of his partner’s mother, the once dull, unassuming door was painted her favorite color—pink.

The color change sparked immediate controversy in the neighborhood, once defined by neutral tones, with some residents even debating a mandated change. The initial uproar was short lived though, as this daring design choice proved its power by transforming Villa Sierra into something undeniably unique—and eventually famous.

The real magic of this pink door house lies in its dazzling visual contrast.

Bold and oversized, the pink door juxtaposed against the home’s minimalist white exterior draws the eye in. It's simple, striking, and incredibly photogenic

Once Instagram users realized they could capture the entire Palm Springs vibe in a single image, the home’s front door went viral. Countless shares and posts quickly turned the geotag for "That Pink Door" into a digital pilgrimage for travelers, fashion influencers, and design enthusiasts. A true Insta-worthy hotspot!

#ThatPinkDoor was used as an anchor to discuss and share vibrant images of the entrance, as the following continued to grow. The door's natural rise to fame and its social impact caught the attention of traditional media. Its inclusion in prestigious events like Modernism Week—where it will be highlighted again in 2026—solidifies Villa Sierra’s status as a marvelous standout in Palm Springs architecture. Its charm and accessibility continue to resonate with visitors, inspiring more opportunities for exploration, connection, and a few extra seflies.

"That Pink Door” is more than a colorful entrance; it's a story about history, design, and the unexpected ways a home can capture the public's imagination. From design gem to cultural phenomenon, this story reminds us that a single bold, creative choice can transform a stylish home into an extraordinary icon!

Want to visit “That Pink Door?” Please, remember to admire this slice of architectural history from a respectful distance, as it’s still a private residence.

Want to stay at “That Pink Door?” Book your Palm Springs getaway today!