In spirit of the classic film Out of Africa and early 20th century African design, The District Commissioner's House is Coachella Valley's most unique setting for a private dinner, cocktail party, corporate meeting, or any special occasion.

Description

Located in The Living Desert's African Village WaTuTu, The District Commissioner's House was fashioned after the building British Commissioners frequented during Kenya's colonial period. Not open to the public, the House is constructed with the same thatched roof and mud-wall style as African Village huts, and features a panoramic glass wall that provides an intimate viewing of our extraordinary and endangered Amur Leopards. The interior is finished with flagstone flooring, thatched and ebony-stained beamed ceilings and white stucco walls. Furnishings will reflect a rustic, romantic European influence. A preparation kitchen provides catering options for intimate dinners, meetings, luncheons, receptions and seminars. Events may also flow outdoors to the front of the house, one of several alfresco venues.

Details

The House has three antique wooden tables with matching chairs which can accommodate 20 guests. Extra tables and chairs may be added to seat a maximum of 50 guests. The House is approximately 1,033 square feet. Additional guests may flow in and out of the House with buffet-style dining, or the House may be used for a cocktail setting, with dinner under the stars for up to 100 guests. For an additional fee, arrangements can be made for our animal ambassadors to greet guests at the main entrance, along with live African-themed entertainment and catering. Ambient lighting exists throughout the exterior of the House, along with an indoor and outdoor sound system. Additional lighting may be added either by the client or in-house caterer as preferred. Restrooms are conveniently located directly adjacent to the House.

Rental Rates

Daytime: $1,500 room only
Evening: $2,500 room only
Evening room plus exterior: $2,750
Basic staffing is included for daytime or evening rentals, which includes event and wildlife coordination, maintenance, and security. Additional staffing fees may apply. All rental rates are for a 3-hour block. Extra hours may be added for a minimum fee of $250 per hour. Additional shuttles are available for $175 for 1-3 hours. For more information, please contact 760-346-5694 ext. 2161 or email parties@livingdesert.org.

Additional Rentals and Services

• 60" round tables: $8
• 6' conferences or standard tables: $5
• Board Room padded, armed wooden folding chairs: $2.50 (up to 60)
• Heavy-duty white plastic folding chairs: $1.50 (up to 300)
• Mahogany folding chairs: $1.50 each (up to 100)
• Heaters: $60 (up to 12)
• Shuttles: $175
• Wildlife Wonders Animals: $250 for 1-2 animals, $500 for 4-6 animals. Up to a one hour presentation.
• Addition rentals may be arranged through an outside service.