The Glad Ranch takes its name from the gladiolus flowers grown here through the 1970s. Built in 1949 and expanded in 1961, the home embodies two chapters of modernist architect Lloyd Ruocco’s vision - each side revealing his belief in honest materials and a seamless connection to the surrounding desert.
Set on expansive acreage within the Anza-Borrego Desert, and framed by the San Ysidro and Santa Rosa Mountains, the property offers panoramic views, total privacy, and cinematic light throughout the day.
Indoors, original steel framing and concrete floors ground the home’s midcentury lines. Broad windows capture the desert light and precisely frame the mountain range beyond- a hallmark of Ruocco’s balancing architecture and environment.
Furnishings and finishes nod to the period with pieces by Eero Saarinen, Knoll, and Herman Miller. Clean lines, warm woods, and a balanced use of color bring the space to life.
Ideal for:
Editorial and lifestyle photo shoots
Brand and campaign content
Film and video production
Architectural photography
Key features:
Lloyd Ruocco–designed main house (2BD/1BA) + detached master suite (1BD/1BA)
Large Screened Breezeway
Fenced in pool and 1500sf patio
80 acres open desert
Dark Sky community - rated top 10 in America
Varied landscape backdrops (architectural lines, wild desert, mature trees)
Drive-up access and ample parking
Lighting:
Abundant natural light throughout the day, with golden afternoon tones and deep desert twilight for exterior shots.
Location:
Quiet, private setting just minutes from downtown Borrego Springs, with easy access for production vehicles.
Additional structures:
Barn and workshop are not yet production-ready - unless dilapidated is what you're going for, in which case we can discuss.
Host Notes:
We love sharing The Glad Ranch with creative teams and are happy to support photo and film productions that appreciate its history and architecture. Please treat the home and landscape with care — it’s an original Ruocco design and we’ve worked hard to preserve its materials and spirit.
If you have specific production needs, unusual props, or larger crews, just reach out in advance. We’re flexible when it makes sense and want every shoot here to feel inspired, smooth, and respectful of the desert setting.