On Location: The John Hilton House

For our spring shoot, we got to hang out at our friend Jamie’s place in 29 Palms, known as the John Hilton House. It’s one of those rare spots where history, creativity, and good vibes collide.

John Hilton bought the cabin back in the 1950s. He was a pivotal figure in the desert art scene—a painter, writer, and musician who left LA to move east, first landing in Thermal, where he owned a gem shop, then finally settling into 29 Palms. John founded the Twentynine Palms Artists Guild and co-founded the 29 Palms Art Gallery, both of which still celebrate and promote desert-inspired art today.

His home quickly became a gathering spot, a cultural hub where artists, celebrities, and political figures came together. The house regularly hosted art shows, live music, and conversations, sparking creativity and connection in the desert.

What we love about the house today is how Jamie has made it his own while honoring its history. “Over the years, Jamie has created a soulful space with found materials from all over the desert,” says Janelle. And the gardens he’s built around the house add to its unique energy.

“There’s a special kind of vibe here, it’s truly our favorite house in the hi-desert. Shooting our spring lookbook here with Brandon Harmon felt like a dream come true. We’ve known Jamie since we first moved to the desert, and he’s been a great friend ever since.”

At All Roads, we’re drawn to places with stories and soul, homes that hold memories and inspire creativity. The John Hilton House is exactly that: a space where past and present come together to make something really special.