Robert and Ci Ci met in Las Vegas, Nevada, where Robert was a special events coordinator and Ci Ci was practicing and perfecting her art of massage therapy. After moving to La Jolla, California, Robert, who also works as an interior designer, and Ci Ci, who was working for a plastic surgeon, found themselves sharing the same clients who began encouraging the Grosses. “They kept saying ‘Why don’t you start something on your own?’” recalls CiCi, “We both began looking for a place where we could bring clients to recover from surgery or to come relax. But it was the hacienda that found us.”
That was seven years ago. After stumbling across the property through a local realtor, they traveled back and forth between California and New Mexico as much as they could before making their final move into the 103 year-old adobe they now call home and work. Fusing their talents of interior design, entertaining, massage and herbal therapy, Robert and Ci Ci founded a healing oasis. After installing a new roof and air conditioning, enlarging the kitchen and replacing the cabinets, stove, sinks and tile on the walls, enlarging the master bath, and retiling and repainting, the house has been revitalized to absolute beauty.
Entering through the front door of the adobe, one immediately senses a welcoming feeling of peace and authenticity. The main hall leads to the Grand Sala, whose warm fireplace, family relics, and beautiful décor lure one further inside. Off the Grand Sala, the Grosses created a tiny chapel, painted a deep red and home to a rescued chapel kneeler. A beautiful crucifix and other historic family religious pieces adorn the peaceful retreat.
The Pelham family’s oak floors, circa 1930, still fill the rooms of the house and guide you through the kitchen, renovated with Spanish tile and a beautiful range, to the dining room with its family style table, seating fourteen. Off the kitchen is the breakfast room, with a wall of windows allowing in the beautiful Southwestern sun. The library, with it’s rich red walls and cozy atmosphere, is adjoined by the family room and the master bath, which also houses Ci Ci’s massage table and a claw-foot tub. At the center of it all is the enclosed atrium. Lime and lemon trees lean towards a central fountain surrounded by pots of flowers and succulents, and in the evenings the space is filled with soft shades of candlelight and lights strung throughout the trees.
“This is a place for someone special,” Ci Ci says, Robert nodding his head in agreement. “People will be drawn to this place, and we’re here to welcome them.”
The Grosses will create a special event or occasion around any client’s personal wishes. A certified and experienced massage therapist and herbologist, Ci Ci will treat you to a full spa experience. A perfect space to host a wedding, a birthday, or a simple weekend trip, the Grosses build the experience around the guest. Ci Ci’s scrumptious cooking and Robert’s flair for romance will leave you breathless.
“We have had such great response to our Special Weekend package. People cry when they (have to) leave here,” laughs Ci Ci. “We have a great time doing this,” Robert adds, “It’s a dream come true.”
Rich with history, love and faith, the restored Pelham House awaits invited visitors seeking renewal and respite.
A Special Weekend (by reservation only, 2 night minimum)
Friday: Welcome and get acquainted, followed by wine and cheese and an intimate romantic candlelight dinner.
Saturday Morning: Coffee and tea in the breakfast room followed by breakfast.
Saturday Evening: "The Last Supper" in the dining room (special requests are available).
Sunday: Brunch and depart at your leisure.
• Relaxing spa treatments available
• Available for private parties
• Special day trip getaways can be arranged
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