In the BOH series What I Love, we’re asking designers to build us a mood board of what’s inspiring them right now.
Michelle Boudreau has traveled the world, but she finds endless inspiration in her own backyard. And considering Palm Springs’ historic architecture, distinct culture and breathtaking landscapes, there’s a lot to love. By curating luxe details, vintage accents and abstract, even surreal, elements into passionate interior narratives, the designer creates fashion-forward spaces that also capture unique aspects of the past—as seen most recently in her refresh of the iconic House of Tomorrow, onetime home of Elvis and Priscilla Presley.
“I believe in the importance of telling a compelling story through engaging all the senses—captivating the eye with visual beauty, infusing the atmosphere with soothing scents, providing comfort through tactile fabrics, and introducing intriguing sounds,” the designer tells Business of Home. That commitment to a fully immersive environment is evident in her mood board, which effortlessly pairs natural stone, geometric-print velvet, fringed furnishings—and, for that California touch, palm fronds.
“In the majority of my projects, I design both interior and exterior spaces, paying close attention to the seamless transition between them,” says Boudreau. Here, she shares an invigorating mix of glass, marble, velvet and wood, evoking outdoor adventures and the greens of peak summer.
1. TREASURE PIROUETTE COPPER SWIVEL ARMCHAIR BY LORENZA BOZZOLI AT ARTEMEST
“This chair design is beautifully balanced, geometric and symmetrical. It features bold and contrasting colors reminiscent of jewels. The luxe metallic accents complement the plush velvet. There’s also a funky fringe that gives it a European edge.”
2. INDIAN WELLS TENNIS GARDEN
“I never miss a chance to attend the spectacular Indian Wells Open in the California desert. The tournament has a laid-back, festival atmosphere and is a beloved destination for both players and fans. Sunshine, palm trees, stunning mountain views: It’s an incredible, unforgettable setting.”
3. TWISTER TILE IN VAPOR BY WOW
“I love the cool, elevated retro vibe of this sophisticated dimensional tile; the endless pattern combinations enable you to create your own piece of brilliantly waterproof art.”
4. DIMITRI FABRIC IN GLACIER BY PIERRE FREY
“This visually graphic and playful carved epingle velvet plays on contrasts, with colors inspired by clean blue pools and rich green plants. The gorgeous geometry of the cut provides intriguing texture to the touch.”
5. INFLATED BUTTERFLY SUNGLASSES IN DARK GREEN BY LOEWE
“These exaggerated sunnies inspire my use of rounded, chunky details in a brave, confident way and exude the energy of summer fun.”
6. JADE GREEN ONYX BY ABC STONE
“I enjoy searching for the perfect natural stone to fit different environments, and it’s fascinating how nature creates such unique beauty in onyx, with its swirling colors and movement. Each piece is unlike any other.”
7. VINTAGE NECKLACE
“I strive to infuse artistic elements and unexpected moments into my designs, and the world of jewelry and fashion serves as a boundless well of inspiration. The intricate details of this vintage necklace have a profound influence on the way I conceptualize interior spaces; its soft, flowing shape and the bold statement it makes provoke curiosity and interest.”
8. VINYL RECORD
“Music is a significant source of inspiration for me. Prior to beginning a new project, I curate a playlist that perfectly encapsulates the mood and design direction I aim to explore from inception to completion.”
9. LAPIDARY CABOCHON MOSAIC SHEET IN JADE GREEN BY CLÉ TILE
“With a nod to both classic and modern architecture, this linear, 3D sculpted marble adds elegance and elevated strength.”
10. VINTAGE OBJECT FROM MARKET MARKET
“This groovy handmade object of shaped walnut and brass, discovered at Palm Springs’ Market Market, instantly adds character and quirky flair to any aesthetic.”
11. MAPUTO fabric IN POLAIRE BY PIERRE FREY
“This dynamic modernist jacquard, composed of interlocking and matte stripes, brings the colors of the outdoors in.”
12. NAIL POLISH IN AVO GUAC BY COLOR DEPT.
“The hue of this nail polish captures the very essence of summer. Its rich, tropical color exudes lush plant life, recalling the blissful feeling of basking in the warm sun. It conveys the kind of refreshing energy I’m eager to impart to my indoor surroundings.”
13. CERINE SWAGGED PENDANT IN GREY-GREEN BY TRUEING
“The striking dichotomy of this lighting fixture’s chunky, oversize scale with the softness of its draping, green glass chain creates a captivating juxtaposition of masculine and feminine elements. It serves as a decorative layer, room jewelry and a source of light, providing both artful elegance and functionality to the environment. I am deeply committed to seeking out lighting designs that are distinct and sculptural, as they play a transformative role in enhancing the overall ambiance and visual appeal of every project.”
14. APERTURE HANDLE IN SATIN BRASS AND WHITE OAK BY NEST STUDIO
“The icing on the cake [of any design scheme] is beautifully crafted hardware for cabinetry. These delicate linear pulls surprise and delight with unexpected perforated holes that invigorate the simplicity.”
15. MADEMOISELLE TRANSPARENT GREEN TABLE LAMP BY MASON EDITIONS FROM 1STDIBS
“I am so drawn to the striking silhouette of this postmodern table light. The severe drop of the shade adds a touch of seductive drama to any area.”
16. PALM FRONDS FROM PALM SPRINGS FLORIST
“I always make sure to incorporate fresh greens in my designs, and I have a particular fondness for flora that is native to the area. Some of my go-to favorites include large and lush monstera leaves, elegant palm fronds and various tropical plants with striking shapes, each one showcasing nature’s irregular and captivating beauty.”
17. 11:40 BAIES DÉFENDUES CANDLE BY D’ORSAY AT PHYLUM
“I have a deep appreciation for the role fragrance plays in shaping the atmosphere of a space and impacting the mood. The fresh scent of this candle is reminiscent of a lush, verdant garden, entwined with comforting and warm, woody undertones of fig. It’s the ideal final flourish to any setting.”
18. TRI CHAIR BY JULIANA LIMA VASCONCELLOS FOR THE INVISIBLE COLLECTION
“I have a true obsession with chairs. My collection is filled with an assortment of unique silhouettes, materials and fabrics. I love the bold purity and simplicity of the Tri chair, with its architectural, exaggerated lines and clean shapes. A wonderful statement piece that can act as both a sculpture and seating.”
