project

Originally established by Gold Rush entrepreneur Sam Brannon in 1861, the original Indian Springs resort began life as a destination spa and mud baths, expanding to include an Olympic-sized mineral pool in 1910 and resort cottages in the 1940s. Blessed with four thermal geysers and mud made from volcanic ash, this 17-acre resort has long attracted wellness-seekers and families. The Merchant family, who purchased the property in the 1980s, has sensitively expanded the original resort with several projects over their nearly 40-year stewardship of the property.

Set on the western portion of the property, the expansion builds upon the resort’s Spanish Colonial architectural language with traditional arches, covered walkways, and rugged wood details, surrounded by lush landscape. The Hacienda, an open-air event venue encircling a central courtyard, will ground the identity of the new expansion in the history of the resort. The interiors, equally inspired by regional history and the owner’s travels, will be textured and richly-detailed to create an experience entirely unique within the property.

Nine bungalows and eight-plexes housing 64 guestrooms, along with a cafe and bar, will encircle a dramatic new circular pool, providing a new, adult-oriented destination. Overlooked by a cafe and outdoor bar, and filled with a Mediterranean-inspired landscape of citrus and lavender, the design of the pool area is inspired by traditional Spanish conservatories.