Casa Oliver brings the spirit of Italy to Palm Springs It was love at first sight. When Casa Oliver owners Lori, her husband Jeff, and Jeff’s cousin Kevin came across the former All Worlds property while searching for a hotel to purchase in Palm Springs, they knew this was the one. “Apart from its impressive size — 1.8 acres — it was the potential for what could be that really drew us in,” Lori said. They immediately appreciated the hotel’s phenomenal views of the San Jacinto Mountains and that the guest rooms had prime positions facing the swimming pool and...

Casa Oliver brings the spirit of Italy to Palm Springs It was love at first sight. When Casa Oliver owners Lori, her husband Jeff, and Jeff’s cousin Kevin came across the former All Worlds property while searching for a hotel to purchase in Palm Springs, they knew this was the one. “Apart from its impressive size — 1.8 acres — it was the potential for what could be that really drew us in,” Lori said. They immediately appreciated the hotel’s phenomenal views of the San Jacinto Mountains and that the guest rooms had prime positions facing the swimming pool and a beautiful reflection pool. It was clear that just a few changes would elevate the property even more. Since taking it over, the owners have “reimagined” every corner of Casa Oliver, a gay men’s clothing-optional resort. It blends “Mediterranean design with a touch of Palm Springs’ iconic charm,” Lori said. More than half of the guest rooms have been upgraded and the remainder are in the process. The refreshed guest rooms have freshly painted walls and brand new furniture, linens, towels and accessories in each space. The exterior has a new coat of paint, the lobby has been rejuvenated, and outside, there is new lush landscaping, a fire pit, and a conversation set. The owners are especially proud of the Giardino, a garden with a bubbling fountain and comfortable patio furniture that is reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast. Lori, Jeff, and Kevin agree that they envision Casa Oliver as being more than just a hotel. “We wanted to create a home,” Lori said. “A place where every guest feels welcomed, cared for, and truly at ease, as if they’ve stepped into the house of a dear friend.” This desire led them to the name Casa Oliver — “casa” means home in several Romance languages, and “reflects our love for Italy, the Mediterranean way of life, and effortless hospitality, which you’ll find touches throughout the hotel,” Lori said. “Every detail, from the design to the atmosphere, is meant to evoke warmth, sophistication, and a sense of belonging.” As for Oliver, “that’s the fun part,” Lori continued. “Oliver is whoever you want him to be. A charming host with impeccable taste, that handsome stranger you lock eyes with across the room, or maybe he’s your next great love — or just the perfect plus-one for a fabulous getaway.” As great as Casa Oliver is now, expect it to level up in the near future. The plan includes adding a spa, gym, and larger pool with cabanas and bungalows. If permits are granted, the owners would also like to open a bistro, serving Italian pastries, coffee, and small bites, “not only for our guests but perhaps have a window opening up to the street, where the locals could savor the flavors of southern Italy,” Lori said. Casa Oliver caters to both relaxation and exploration, offering guests the “freedom to choose their own adventure,” Lori said. That might mean spending time in the pool and hot tub, or having a “more seductive, risqué experience” at the 6,000-square-foot heated indoor play area, Oliver’s Den. “Designed with cleanliness and comfort in mind, this space allows guests to explore their desires in a setting that is both exciting and safe,” Lori said. The area is “such a unique amenity,” Kevin added, which “allows guests to explore their playful side.” At the heart of Casa Oliver is the belief you “shouldn’t have to choose between luxury and fun,” Lori said. “We’ve worked hard to craft a space that is clean, stylish, and inviting, where everyone can relax, connect, and be themselves without judgment.” There is nowhere else quite like Palm Springs, and the owners feel “honored” to be part of the community and gay men’s resort scene. When Jeff stands by the pool, his favorite area of Casa Oliver, and looks out at the gorgeous mountains, “I have a ‘pinch me’ moment,” he said, “and feel such gratitude that I get to be part of this hotel and its new story and chapter in life.”