Tour a Stationery Designer's Sexy Palm Springs Home

Growing up just down the street from Rhode Island School of Design, Elicia Castaldi is an artist by nature. From working as a fashion art director to illustrating and writing children’s books to founding her very own stationery empire, this Rhode Islander has made her way to Los Angeles by way of New York City and is making her mark on the West Coast in more ways than one. Her latest contribution? A dramatic overhaul of a Palm Springs home that’s sure to leave you speechless.

Named after her stunning stationery line Girl w/ Knife, Knife/House is what you’d get if you transformed Elicia’s art into a home. “I wanted to build an immersive Girl w/ Knife experience where I could feature my art, test new home goods samples, entertain customers and buyers, and host events. Knife/House achieves all of these objectives,” says Elicia.

As you approach the grounds surrounding Knife/House, you’re immediately greeted by a statement-making set of blush doors that instantly set the tone for the property. While the original property had a similar entry, Elicia notes, “The entryway has had quite a glow-up, meaning that it was in very rough shape when I purchased it. I wanted people to know when they've arrived at Knife/House — therefore, it needed a bold new look. I'm a big lover of symmetry, especially in entrances, so I had a portion of the perimeter wall removed and expanded the opening so I could fit grand double doors. I wanted one of those swoon-worthy midcentury front doors that Palm Springs is known for. I designed the door details in a chocolate bar pattern (which were built on-site under my supervision), purchased ornate brass handles and retro sconces, and found the perfect Girl w/ Knife blush paint (which unfortunately needs constant upkeep because it fades and cracks in the unforgiving desert sun and heat)."

The doors open and a breath of fresh air rushes over you. Bright whites, bold greens and pops of pink await. “Moving the exterior wall and expanding the street entry doors enabled me to have the pavers dramatically connect in a straight line from the street to the front door of the home,” notes Elicia. This eye for symmetry and attention to detail is what makes the property so elegant and signature Elicia.