Summary
The word “modern” often comes up when people discuss Palm Springs. It is a modern mecca for visitors and a living museum of mid-twentieth century architecture, showcasing homes and buildings that appear as if they were designed recently rather than decades ago.
In fact, mid-century architecture is omnipresent in Palm Springs, attracting many individuals who wish to admire it. This concise self-guided tour will highlight some of the most stunning locations in the city, easily visible from the street or accessible for exploration.
Why Is There so Much Modern Architecture?
If you were a movie star in the mid-twentieth century looking to escape the hustle and bustle for the weekend, Palm Springs was the ideal destination. This location allows for a practical escape, as it’s just two hours away from Hollywood.
The Hollywood elite enlisted the era’s most innovative architects to craft sleek, modern homes suited for the desert landscape. These structures were designed with ample glass and clean lines, utilizing innovative materials to create seamless indoor/outdoor living experiences.
Try This Trick to Get Inside a Modernist House
Before heading out, consider this useful tip to gain access to a modernist house without incurring any costs: simply locate a property for sale that is hosting an open house.
Using Zillow’s mobile app, search for Palm Springs, then click the down arrow next to “For Sale” and apply the following filters: for sale, built between 1945 and 1960, by agent, open houses.
Modernism Apps
While utilizing an app for your modernism tour may seem appealing, many are not very effective. For instance, the Palm Springs Modern App has proven difficult to navigate and has not been updated since 2014.
Tramway Gas Station
If you drove into Palm Springs from the north on Palm Canyon Drive, you likely passed this unique structure. Originally an Enco gas station, it was designed by architects Albert Frey and Robson C. Chambers to capture attention upon entry to the city.
The distinctive wedge-shaped canopy is hard to ignore and exemplifies classic modernist architecture. Frey also designed buildings at the Palm Springs Tramway, which you can visit before continuing your architectural tour.
The visitor center serves as a convenient stop for restrooms or inquiries for further guidance.
Address: 2901 N Palm Canyon Drive
Wexler Steel Houses
This visually striking home features an accordion-pleated roof, masterfully crafted by Donald Wexler and Ric Harrison. If you think pre-fabricated homes are a modern development, Wexler was pioneering this blend of prefab and site-specific construction long ago. These homes were created to resemble custom builds yet could be assembled on-site in just days.
Seven of the so-called Steel Houses were constructed in this neighborhood, with House Number 2 (3125 North Sunny View Drive) recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Notably, the Wexler Steel Houses are the only Case Study houses in Palm Springs.
Address: 290 E Simms Road
House of Tomorrow
The Alexander Estate, known as the House of Tomorrow, was conceived for a local real estate developer and features a design based on four interconnected circles across three levels. Its architect remains unknown to this day.
Currently, it is referred to as the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, where Elvis and Priscilla Presley honeymooned in 1967. This iconic home is accessible for guided tours, granting visitors a chance to view an original mid-century house.
Address: 1350 Ladera Circle
Mid-Century Business District
The Palm Springs Art Museum’s Architecture and Design Center is housed within a 1961 savings-and-loan building designed by innovative architect E. Stewart Williams. This area is characterized by mid-century business architecture, making it an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll. If you walk about two blocks south from the museum, you’ll encounter a variety of other mid-century buildings.
Address: 300 S Palm Canyon Drive
Twin Palms
Twin Palms Estates is one of the most intriguing mid-century neighborhoods in Palm Springs. Development began in 1957, designed by William “Bill” Krisel of Palmer and Krisel and constructed by Alexander Construction Company. Most homes featured private swimming pools, and each had exactly two palm trees for landscaping.
These tract homes gained immense popularity, eventually leading to the construction of over 2,500 such houses in Palm Springs, with approximately 90 located in the Twin Palms neighborhood. Back in 1957, they were priced at around $30,000 (equivalent to more than $250,000 today), making them accessible for vacation homeowners.
A local realtor owns this house, which reflects mid-century aesthetics perfectly, even extending to the cars parked by the driveway. The exuberant landscaping adds to its charm.
Just down the corner, you can find 1840 Caliente Drive, which was mentioned earlier in this guide.
Address: 1070 Apache Road
More Mid-Century
Modernism Week is the annual celebration of mid-century design held in Palm Springs every February. The week typically includes several tours, providing visitors an opportunity to step inside some of the city’s modernist masterpieces.
Among the frequently toured houses during this event is the Frey House II, crafted by Albert Frey, an early tiny house which served as both the architect’s residence and studio. Previous years have showcased the Edris House and the home of designer Christopher Kennedy. These home tours sell out quickly, so be prepared to reserve your spot as soon as ticket sales begin, typically in August for the February event.
Notable Modernist Houses That Aren’t Easy to See
While exploring lists of significant modernist structures in Palm Springs can be exhilarating, seeing some of them in person is often quite challenging. A few remain completely concealed from sight.
The Kaufmann Desert House, designed by architect Richard Neutra in 1946, is one such property. The view from the street offers only a glimpse, with its picturesque swimming pool hidden from public view. To explore further, you might consider viewing additional photos at Architecture Daily.
The Edris House is located uphill from the Kaufmann and is similarly difficult to see due to its elevated position. John Lautner’s contributions to Palm Springs, including the Bob Hope House and the Elrod Circular House, are also secure behind entry gates, limiting visitor access.
Mid-Century Accommodations
In addition to residential and commercial properties, Palm Springs also boasts a variety of accommodations that embody mid-century design. Consider these options to complement your day of architectural touring:
Mid-Century Lodging in Palm Springs
- Orbit In features retro charm and abundant mid-century style, designed by Herbert Bruns. Visitors can glimpse the Frey House from their Frey Room’s outdoor shower.
- L’Horizon Hotel was previously the vacation getaway of producer Jack Wrather, known for “The Lone Ranger” and “Lassie,” and was designed by architect William F. Cody.
- Del Marcos Hotel represents Bill Cody’s first commission in Palm Springs, establishing the standard for post-war modern motels.
- Movie Colony Hotel designed by Albert Frey, maintains his signature style on the exteriors, while the interiors have a contemporary touch.
- The Desert Star resembles a classic 1950s motel, with individual one-bedroom units, some available for rent when owners are absent.
Mid-Century Lodging in Desert Hot Springs
- Miracle Manor Retreat is a remodeled 1948 motel, designed by architect Michael Rotondi, now functioning as a bed and breakfast with a pool fed by a natural hot spring.
- The Lautner offers several properties designed by architect John Lautner, with options to stay in rental units, the Ranch House, or reserve space for events at The Park.
Vacation Rentals
Visitors can also discover remarkable mid-century vacation home and apartment rentals in Palm Springs. While recent changes to regulations in the city have reduced the number of properties available on platforms like Airbnb, it’s still worth exploring options on VRBO and VacationRentals.com.
You can even rent Frank Sinatra’s first Palm Springs residence if you have the budget for it.
