Imagine you are driving through the vast, sun-drenched expanse of the Mojave Desert. The horizon stretches out in shades of ochre and dusty brown. Suddenly, your eyes catch something that looks like it belongs in a 1950s sci-fi movie. Perched atop a 150-foot volcanic cinder cone sits a shimmering, white, flying-saucer-shaped dome. This isn’t a movie set or an alien outpost; it is the legendary Huell Howser House, also known as the “Volcano House.”
For decades, this architectural marvel has captured the imagination of travelers and design enthusiasts alike. Most famously owned by the late Huell Howser, the beloved host of the TV series California’s Gold, this home is more than just a residence. It is a symbol of California’s quirky, adventurous spirit. Whether you are a fan of mid-century modern design or a history buff curious about celebrity real estate, this Huell Howser volcano retreat offers a story unlike any other.
The Story Behind the Dome: A History Timeline
The Huell Howser House didn’t just appear out of thin air. Its existence is the result of a visionary builder and a series of owners who fell in love with its isolation and “out-of-this-world” aesthetic. Let’s look at how this Newberry Springs dome came to be.
The Vision of Vard Wallace
The story begins in 1968. Vard Wallace, a successful inventor and owner of an aircraft parts company, wanted a truly private desert getaway. Wallace was a man who understood engineering and mechanics—he had even worked as a mechanic during World War II. He didn’t want a standard ranch-style house; he wanted something that reflected the forward-thinking optimism of the Space Age.
Wallace commissioned architect Harold Bissner Jr. to design a home that would sit directly on top of a volcanic cinder cone. Building a house on a volcano is no small feat, but Wallace’s background in high-precision parts meant he wasn’t afraid of a challenge. The result was a 2,200-square-foot dome that offered 360-degree views of the surrounding desert.
A Passing of the Torch: Ownership Changes
After Vard Wallace passed away, the house went through a few different hands. In 2000, it was sold to a surgeon, and in 2003, it was purchased by developer Richard Bailey for about $795,000. However, the most famous chapter of the home’s history began when Huell Howser spotted it.
Huell was known for finding the “hidden gems” of California. When he saw the Volcano House, he didn’t just see a building; he saw a piece of California’s soul. He purchased the property for roughly $599,000. Despite the isolation—Newberry Springs is a quiet, rural community—Huell loved the silence and the dramatic sunsets. He spent years curating the interior and making the “flying saucer” his own personal sanctuary.
The Chapman University Era
In 2010, as Huell began to consider his legacy, he listed the house for sale. However, his deep connection to the state led him to a different path. In 2012, shortly before his passing, Huell donated the Huell Howser House and the surrounding 60 acres to Chapman University.
The university originally hoped to use the site as an astronomical observatory or a research center because of the clear desert skies. However, the sheer remoteness of the site and the rugged road leading up the volcano made it difficult for regular student use. Eventually, the property transitioned into a space for exclusive events and retreats, allowing the university to maintain the home while sharing its beauty with a select audience.
The Architectural Genius of the Huell Howser House
You might be wondering, “How do you actually build a house on top of a volcano?” It sounds like something out of a James Bond villain’s playbook. But the architecture of the Huell Howser House is a masterclass in mid-century modern engineering.
Engineering a Flying Saucer
The home is a perfect example of “Googie” architecture—a subset of mid-century modern design that was influenced by car culture, jets, and the Atomic Age. The dome shape isn’t just for looks; it’s incredibly aerodynamic, which is vital in a desert environment where high winds can whip across the plains.
The structure is anchored into the volcanic rock with a concrete foundation. The white roof reflects the intense desert sun, keeping the interior cooler than a traditional flat-roofed house. When you look at it from a distance, the house seems to hover over the cinder cone, perfectly balancing the rugged, natural landscape with artificial precision.
Mid-Century Modern Meets the Mojave
Inside, the Huell Howser House is a time capsule. During his time there, Huell embraced the mid-century aesthetic. We’re talking about open floor plans, large windows, and a seamless flow between the indoors and outdoors.
The use of natural materials, such as stone and wood, within the dome helps ground the “space-age” exterior. Because the house is circular, almost every room has a view. You can watch the sunrise from the kitchen and the moonrise from the living room without ever leaving the comfort of your home. It’s a design that prioritizes the landscape’s experience above all else.
Preserving a Desert Landmark
Today, maintaining a house like this is a labor of love. High-altitude desert environments are harsh. The wind, sand, and extreme temperature shifts can take a toll on any structure. Chapman University has worked hard to preserve the integrity of the original design.
They’ve kept the iconic features intact while ensuring the home meets modern safety standards for guests. It’s now considered a cultural landmark, representing a specific era of California’s architectural history that celebrated boldness and eccentricity.
A Virtual Walkthrough: Exploring the Volcano Retreat
Let’s take a walk through the Huell Howser House interior tour. If you were to visit today, here is what you would experience as you move through this incredible space.
The Approach and Ground Level
Your journey begins at the base of the 150-foot cinder cone. You have to navigate a winding, unpaved road that requires a bit of grit (and ideally a 4WD vehicle). As you ascend, the desert floor drops away, and you feel like you’re leaving the world behind.
At the base of the dome, there is a separate structure—a two-car garage and a one-bedroom apartment. This was initially designed for guests or caretakers. It has a rustic, modern vibe that prepares you for the main event up top. From here, a staircase leads you up into the heart of the volcano.
The Heart of the Dome: Living and Dining
When you step into the main living area, the first thing you notice is the light. The Huell Howser House features floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the entire perimeter. The living room is an open-plan masterpiece.
- The View: A 360-degree panorama of the Mojave Desert.
- The Furniture: Huell favored simple, comfortable mid-century pieces that didn’t distract from the scenery.
- The Kitchen: A cozy yet functional space where you can cook while looking out over miles of open land.
The ceiling follows the curve of the dome, creating an airy, cathedral-like feeling that makes the 2,200 square feet feel much larger than it actually is.
Sleeping Under the Stars: Bedrooms and Baths
The home features two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The main suite is tucked away to provide maximum privacy. Imagine waking up and seeing nothing but the blue desert sky and the distant mountains.
The bathrooms often retain their retro charm, with vintage tiling and fixtures that recall the home’s 1968 origins. There is something incredibly peaceful about showering while looking out at a volcanic landscape that hasn’t changed in thousands of years.
The Wraparound Deck: A Window to the World
Perhaps the most iconic feature of the Huell Howser volcano retreat is the outdoor deck. It completely encircles the dome. This is where Huell spent much of his time, and it’s easy to see why.
The deck is perfect for stargazing. Because there is minimal light pollution in Newberry Springs, the Milky Way appears with startling clarity. It’s also the ultimate spot for exclusive events, providing a dramatic backdrop for photos and conversations.
The Era of Exclusive Events and Rentals
After Chapman University took ownership, the Huell Howser House entered a new phase of life. It became a sought-after location for people seeking something truly “off the grid” yet high-end.
Hosting at the Volcano House
Because of its unique shape and location, the house became a magnet for exclusive events. We’re talking about:
- Corporate Retreats: Companies looking to get their executives away from the noise of the city to focus on big-picture thinking.
- Boutique Weddings: For couples who want a ceremony that is literally on top of a volcano.
- Film and Photo Shoots: The house has appeared in numerous advertisements and high-fashion editorials because of its striking silhouette.
Why the Setting is Unbeatable
Privacy is the most significant selling point. When you are at the Huell Howser House, you are the king or queen of your own mountain. There are no neighbors, no traffic, and no interruptions. This level of seclusion is rare, especially for a property with such architectural pedigree.
The capacity for events is generally kept small—usually 10-20 guests for indoor gatherings—to protect the integrity of the home. This “small-batch” approach to events only adds to the house’s allure and mystery.
Planning Your Own Experience
If you are interested in a Huell Howser House rental, you typically have to go through Chapman University’s event planning department. While it isn’t a standard “Airbnb” style rental, they do occasionally open it up for educational purposes or high-profile corporate bookings.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to book or visit, always check the current road status. Desert weather can wash out the path to the top, so communication with the caretakers is key!
Planning Your Visit to Newberry Springs
Even if you aren’t renting the house for a wedding, many people make the pilgrimage to Newberry Springs to see the Huell Howser House from the road or to explore the surrounding area.
Getting There: The Journey to the Cinder Cone
Newberry Springs is located about 20 miles east of Barstow, California. It’s a classic desert town, known for its ostrich farms and hidden springs. To find the house, you’ll head out into the desert toward the volcanic fields.
- Address: 400 Silver Valley Rd, Newberry Springs, CA.
- Vehicle Choice: Do not attempt the climb in a low-riding sports car. The road is steep and rocky. A truck or SUV is your best friend here.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
The property is private, so you can’t just walk into the house whenever you want. However, the view from the base of the cinder cone is still spectacular.
- Photography: You can get great shots of the “UFO” from the public road.
- Timing: The “Golden Hour” (just before sunset) is the best time to visit. The white dome glows against the orange sky, making for incredible photos.
Exploring the Neighborhood: Beyond the Volcano
While you’re in the area, make it a full day trip! Newberry Springs is home to the Bagdad Cafe, which was the setting for the famous 1987 cult film. It’s a great place to grab a burger and soak in the Route 66 vibes. You can also explore the Mojave National Preserve, which is just a short drive away and offers some of the best hiking in Southern California.
The Lasting Legacy of Huell Howser
We can’t talk about the Huell Howser House without talking about the man himself. Huell Howser was a Tennessee native who moved to California and became the state’s biggest cheerleader. His show, California’s Gold, ran for decades and focused on the people and places that make the state unique.
Huell’s catchphrase was “That’s amazing!” and he said it with genuine wonder. He loved the Volcano House because it was, in his eyes, the ultimate piece of California gold. It was weird, beautiful, and tucked away where only those who were looking for it could find it.
By donating the house to Chapman University, Huell ensured that his love for the desert and his appreciation for unique architecture would live on. He didn’t want the modern house to be torn down or turned into a generic mansion. He wanted it to remain a place of inspiration.
FAQ
What is the Huell Howser House?
The Huell Howser House, also known as the Volcano House, is a mid-century modern home built in 1968 on top of a volcanic cinder cone in Newberry Springs, California. It is famous for its “flying saucer” shape and its association with TV host Huell Howser.
Can you rent the Huell Howser House for events?
Yes, the property has been used for exclusive events, corporate retreats, and weddings. However, it is managed by Chapman University, and bookings are generally handled through their administrative or event departments rather than standard rental sites.
Who owns the Volcano House now?
The house is currently owned by Chapman University. Huell Howser donated the property and the surrounding 60 acres to the university in 2012 to ensure its preservation.
Can I visit the Huell Howser House today?
While the interior is generally not open to the public for walk-in tours, you can see the exterior from the base of the cinder cone in Newberry Springs. Special tours or events are occasionally organized by the university or local historical societies.
How do I get to the Huell Howser House?
The house is located at 400 Silver Valley Rd, Newberry Springs, CA. It is about a 45-minute drive from Barstow. A high-clearance vehicle (4WD) is recommended if you have permission to drive up the private road to the dome.
Where Does Huell Howser Currently Live?
Huell Howser passed away on January 7, 2013, in Palm Springs, California.
Huell Howser House Photos
