The opposite of "desolating" can be interpreted in a few ways. One antonym could be "comforting," as desolation implies emptiness or loneliness, while comfort suggests a sense of warmth and contentment. Another opposite could be "flourishing" or "thriving," as desolation often means an absence of life or growth. Finally, "crowded" or "populated" could also be considered antonyms of "desolating," since an area that is crowded indicates an abundance of activity and people, while desolation suggests the opposite. Ultimately, the choice of antonym depends on the specific context and connotations of "desolating.