palm springs architect tour

Modern Tours Palm Springs

The palm springs architects that made mid-century modern architecture famous in california..

For fans of modernism or just those curious about the unique and beautiful architecture of Palm Springs, learning more about the buildings, homes and those who created them can help create a deeper understanding.

While numerous architects and builders contributed to the aesthetic of Greater Palm Springs, there are a handful of key players that set the bar for modern architecture.

John Lautner

John Lautner was a student of Frank Lloyd Wright and is known as one of last century’s most important contemporary American architects. Lautner liked to consider the relationship of people to their environments when he designed homes and spaces.

Lautner’s early work includes a hotel in Desert Hot Springs now called Hotel Lautner which was part of a master planned community of over 100 buildings.

See Lautner homes & buildings:

Elrod House

Bob Hope House

Hotel Lautner

Albert Frey

Albert Frey took a trip to the desert and fell so madly in love, he never left. He had been hired to work on the now-historically-significant Kocher-Samson Building in Palm Springs, but Frey's legacy goes much deeper. Frey was one of the early developers of the style that would become known as desert modernism; clean lines, and minimal detail and ornamentation that let the extreme desert environment shine.

See Frey homes and buildings:

Frey II House

Tramway Gas Station / Palm Springs Visitor Center

Palm Springs City hall

Hugh Kaptur

He's known for his unconventional designs and "popluxe" style. Hugh Kaptur counts Frank Lloyd Wright as one of his inspirations. Yet another architect who came to Palm Springs from elsewhere, and became so captivated, he settled here, Kaptur had a dramatic influence on desert modernism architecture.

He built more than 200 homes and numerous other buildings in Palm Springs.

See Kaptur homes and buildings

Steve McQueen House

Musicland Hotel (Casa Blanca)

Palm Springs Fire Station # 3 & #4

Russell House

Tahquitz Plaza

William Krisel

William Krisel believed good design shouldn't just be for the rich. Over his career, he developed a passion for creating high-quality homes, with smart design that ordinary people could live in and feel good about.

Krisel partnered with the Alexander Company and went on to build more than 1,200 homes across Palm Springs including in the Twin Palms neighborhood. His now-iconic butterfly roof designs turned the traditional roof shape upside down to dramatic effect, serving the mountain views up as if they were presented in a dish.

One of his more famous works includes the House of Tomorrow, which prominent developer Robert Alexander and his family lived in, throwing lavish parties for the who's who of the Palm Springs design and architecture world. The home later became more famous when Elvis Presley and his new wife Priscilla hid out there on their honeymoon.

See Krisel homes and buildings:

Homes in Twin Palms

Ocotillo Lodge

Sandpiper Condos

House of Tomorrow / Elvis Honeymoon House

Pod House / Grundt Tipper House

E. Stewart Williams

Favoring the use of natural materials like wood and stone, E. Stewart Williams' first major residential commission came when Rat Pack crooner Frank Sinatra found his way into Williams' office, sat down and asked for a home by Christmas, which was just a few months away.

Williams may have been most prolific when it came to public buildings; banks, offices and civic buildings, of which he designed many in the Palm Springs area.

See E. Stewart Williams homes and buildings:

Chase bank / Coachella Valley Savings and Loan

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Alpine Station

Palm Springs Art Museum

Palm Springs Unified School District building

Frank Sinatra's Home, Twin Palms

Edris House

William Cody

It's hard to pin down a particular style William F Cody (known as Wild Bill and the Desert maverick) was known for, but he believed in having all elements of a space work together; the building, the landscape, and the furniture. Architect E. Stewart Williams once said of Cody that he brought 5th Avenue into the desert for his ability to create magnificent architecture.

See Cody homes and buildings:

St. Theresa Catholic Church and Convent

Del Marcos Hotel

Eldorado Country Club (private)

Palm Springs Public Library

Richard Neutra

Architect Richard Neutra designed just three homes in Palm Springs but each one was significant for its advancement of desert modernism architecture.

Neutra was careful about placing his homes in their environment, so he could make the outdoors and indoors seem more in harmony.

One of the most significant works is the Kaufmann House, which many experts believe is the greatest example of desert modernism still standing today. Conceived as a winter home for a department store magnate, the home is situated on a large lot, with its elements laid out in a pinwheel. But its most noticeable feature to passers-by or looky-loos (you can drive up to it, but gates and fences make only a small portion of the home visible from the street) is the second story "gloriette", an outdoor living room with louvered walls that could protect the homeowners from desert sun and winds.

See Neutra homes and buildings:

Grace Miller House

Kaufmann House

Maslon House

Donald Wexler

After serving in the Navy, Donald Wexler moved to Los Angeles and worked with Richard Neutra before partnering with William Cody, and Richard Harrison.

Low slung roofs, folded roofs, prefab components and organic style are all hallmarks of Wexler's desert modernism style, though he hated labels, saying famously, "we didn't even think of it as 'Modern' in terms of architecture for the desert. We did it to live with the environment, a matter of balancing orientation and views." Wexler said he preferred to let his work speak for itself rather than apply labels or architectural terminology.

See Wexler homes and buildings:

Wexler Steel Homes

Dinah Shore Residence

Palm Springs International Airport

Union 76 gas Station

Interested in learning more and seeing the groundbreaking modernist architecture and modern homes in Palm Springs first hand? Want to check out butterfly roof homes, celebrity homes, architecturally important homes in Palm Springs? Architectural tours, interior home tours, and modernism tours are all available. Book a Palm Springs Modern Tour today.

PS Architecture Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

PS Architecture Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

THE MODERN TOUR is the luxury architectural tour of Palm Springs.  We are the oldest architectural tour in Palm Springs.   The historical (including Hollywood) and geological context provide a perspective on the tours in which to view Palm Springs' astonishing collection of high-caliber MidCentury Modern architecture and design, and we will have a lot of fun doing it.

Michael Stern is the Author of the best-selling Rizzoli publication "Julius Shulman: Palm Springs, and the Director and Producer of the film "Julius Shulman: Desert Modern" which has aired on PBS.  He curated the exhibition "Julius Shulman: Palm Springs" which is the largest exhibition of Shulman's work that has ever been done, and the largest exhibition exploring Palm Springs' amazing collection of MidCentury Modern architecture and design.  He has lectured extensively, has appeared on "The Today Show" and has made numerous film and television appearances  discussing the joys of modernism and the Palm Springs modern style.  His new book, "Hollywood Modern" was recently released  and focuses on the relationship between celebrities and works of an extremely high architectural caliber, all done in the modern style.  He was close friends with several of the notable Palm Springs architects, including E. Stewart Williams, Donald Wexler, William Krisel, Hugh Kaptur...

Discover Everything

Greater palm springs has to offer.

• VISIT GREATER PALM SPRINGS  
• Toll-free: 800.967.3767 
• p: 760.770.9000
• Visitor Center:  
• Monday – Friday  8:00 am to 5:00 pm
• 70100 Highway 111
• Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

© 2024 Visit Greater Palm Springs. All rights reserved.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to our use of cookies.

Privacy Policy

• Palm Springs Convention Center
• LGBTQ+ Travel

• Health & Happiness
• Aerial Adventures
• Arts & Culture
• Attractions
• Bike & Scooter Rentals
• Hiking/Rock Climbing
• Off Road Adventures
• Parks & Recreation
• Spa & Beauty
• Sports & Fitness
• Bars & Lounges
• Continental
• Italian/Pizza
• Mediterranean
• Mexican/Latin
• Vegetarian/Vegan/Organic
• Large Hotels
• Mid-Sized Hotels
• Small Hotels & Inns
• Vacation Rentals
• Gay Resorts
• Art, Galleries & Supplies
• Cannabis & Tobacco
• Clothing Accessories
• Department & Hardware Stores
• Floral Design & Shop
• Gifts, Collectibles & Souvenirs
• Grocery & Pharmacy
• Health, Nutrition & Beauty
• Home Décor & Furniture
• Pet Stores & Services
• Shipping & Printing Services
• Specialty Food & Wine
• Sporting Goods
• Vintage Shopping & Antiques
• Order Visitor Guides
• Getting Here
• Visitor Information
• Eat & Drink
• © Copyright 2024 Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism. All rights reserved.
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Site by Vrrb

Desert Modernism

Palm Springs Architecture

Palm Springs is a haven for lovers of timeless design and architectural enthusiasts alike. With its sleek lines, open floor plans, and seamless integration with nature, midcentury modern architecture has left an indelible mark on this vibrant city. Explore the history, characteristics, and notable examples of this architectural style that continues to captivate and inspire visitors from around the world.

Take An Architecture Tour

Self-Guided Tour

Architecture Tours by Modernism Week

Mod Squad Tours

The Modern Tour

Explore palm springs midcentury modern architecture.

Explore Midcentury Architecture

Architects & Developers

Aluminaire House

Architectural Preservations

Learn about the architects that built palm springs.

E. Stewart Williams

Albert Frey

William Cody

Charles Du Bois

Hugh Kapture

Howard Lapham

A. Quincy Jones

Dan Palmer & William Krisel

Palm springs newsletter.

Receive news and announcements from Palm Springs straight to your inbox

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

© 2024 California.com All Rights Reserved

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

The Ultimate Guide to Palm Springs Architecture

Take yourself on an architecture tour of Palm Springs to see some of the most unique and beautiful buildings in SoCal.

January 11, 2021

You can’t avoid mid-century modern architecture when spending time in Palm Springs. In fact, many people treat the city as a living museum and visit just to revel in the unique, desert-chic Palm Springs architecture . Contemporary with touches of Old Hollywood glamour, the prized houses in Palm Springs beckon to all—there’s a reason why this town in the Sonoran Desert was home to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Marilyn Monroe.

So, don’t let the glitz and glamour of Palm Springs distract you from the sheer architectural marvels scattered around the area. There are numerous homes in Palm Springs’ neighborhoods that are worthy of seeing. (It just so happens that the most impressive, ahead-of-their-time houses were once owned by the rich and famous—who would’ve thought?) Whether you’re escaping to Palm Springs for the weekend or planning to attend Modernism Week , you’ll want to make time for an architecture tour of Palm Springs. 

Why are there so many mid-century modern homes in Palm Springs?

Believe it or not, Palm Springs wasn’t always an architectural mecca for modernism fans. Palm Springs architecture didn’t become what it is today until it captured the attention of Hollywood A-listers, pioneering architects, and visionaries. Actors, actresses, musicians, and more creatives bought homes in the largely unexplored town because it allowed them to escape from L.A. but still be close enough to get to work if need be.

Leading architects and designers were commissioned to develop the elite’s houses. These architects took inspiration from the Bauhaus and international styles and modified them to accommodate the SoCal climate and surrounding desert. This led to the creation of Desert Modernism, which perfectly blends the indoors and outdoors.

Does your business rank among the best in California?

Recomended businesses

Show me california.com recommended businesses near.

Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.

Notable Palm Springs Architects

Before jumping into the architecture tour of Palm Springs , let’s also take a moment to recognize the innovative, highly influential architects behind the mid-century Palm Springs homes we love today.

1. Richard Neutra emigrated from Austria to the U.S. in 1923 and became one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. His notable Palm Springs architectural creations include the Grace Miller House and the uber-famous Kaufmann house—created for businessman and philanthropist Edgar Kaufmann.

2. Donald Wexler served in the Navy during World War II before moving to L.A. to pursue his architectural dreams. He worked for Neutra for a while and then partnered with Richard Harrison, with whom he created many banks and schools around the Coachella Valley. Wexler and Harrison were also the masterminds behind the Steel Development Homes—a housing model that was low-cost, easily replicable, and suited to the desert climate—which were built by the Alexander Construction Company.

3. Albert Frey was another architect who built Palm Springs. Originally hailing from Switzerland, Frey came to Palm Springs in 1934 to help supervise a construction project and ended up staying in the region, continuing to build his most influential buildings. Noteworthy architecture by Frey includes the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Frey Houses I and II (his own homes), Palm Springs City Hall, and Tramway Gas Station.

4. The son of an American diplomat, William Krisel was born in China but returned to the states with his family at the age of 13. He studied architecture at the University of Southern California and later stayed in the area to develop affordable homes, especially tract housing, with a modern aesthetic. He is responsible for designing more than 30,000 residences in SoCal—yes, you read that right—including many that were built by the Alexander Construction Company.

5. Stewart Williams also significantly shaped the architectural landscape of the Coachella Valley. He designed the Palm Springs Art Museum, Coachella Savings and Loan building, and Twin Palms —also known as the Frank Sinatra Estate. All are notable stops on most architecture tours in Palm Springs.

6. Prior to embarking on an architectural journey, Hugh M. Kaptur was a marine. He moved to Palm Springs in 1956 (where he still resides), and his notable creations include the Musicland Hotel Palm Springs , Tahquitz Plaza, and houses for Steve McQueen and other celebs. 

Where to visit on an architecture tour of Palm Springs

Tramway Gas Station

Address: 2901 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs

You can’t miss the Palm Springs Tramway Gas Station—seriously, it was intended to be the first building people would see on their way into town. Designed by Frey and Robson C. Chambers, this wedge-shaped building is a classic example of modernist architecture. The building is now the Palm Springs Visitors Center, so if you have any questions, this is the place to drop by.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Address: 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs

In addition to being a highlight on virtually every architectural tour in Palm Springs, this site boasts the title of the world's largest rotating aerial tramway. Conceived by Albert Frey in 1963, the tramway was created to offer a unique transportation method from the Coachella Valley's base up to the natural beauty of Mount San Jacinto State Park, close to San Jacinto Peak's summit.

On the way up, the tram cars rotate slowly, offering picturesque vistas of the landscape below. Trust us, you’ll want to experience the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—this is one of the coolest things to do in Palm Springs .

Coachella Valley Savings and Loan

Address: 499 South Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs

Coachella Valley Savings and Loan is definitely not as boring as its name makes it sound. The structure is a landmark example of mid-century modern architecture. C reated by Williams, the minimalist building is actually a bank today—the snazziest bank in SoCal—featuring a flat roof, deep overhangs, and steel-frame construction.

Hope Residence

Address: 2466 Southridge Drive , Palm Springs

Although Bob Hope is renowned for his movies, comedy, and Academy Awards hosting gigs , his real estate investments are no less impressive. His house in Palm Springs is truly one of a kind and is often compared to a spaceship, thanks to its looming, undulating triangular roof and large light shaft. Visiting during Modernism Week is your best bet to take a peek, as it is located in a gated community.

The Kaufmann Desert House

Address: 470 West Vista Chino, Palm Springs

Constructed in 1946 by Neutra, the iconic Kaufmann House has played a pivotal role in shaping the modernist look that would come to characterize future constructions in the resort destination of Palm Springs. Recognized by the Palm Springs City Council as a Class 1 Historic Site, this home has undergone several renovations over the years, yet has managed to preserve essential aspects of its initial blueprint.

Sinatra House

Address: 1148 Alejo Road, Palm Springs

Also known as Twin Palms, Sinatra’s estate is another creation by Williams. This lavish 4,500-square-foot home is situated in the Movie Colony neighborhood and is famous for stories of star-studded parties, brawls, and celebrations—there’s a good reason why every Palm Springs mid-century modern tour features Sinatra House as a prominent stop.

Palm Springs architecture guide by style

Alexander Homes

Where to find Alexander homes: Twin Palms neighborhood and Vistas Las Palmas

The Alexander Construction Company came to Palm Springs in 1955 and constructed more than 2,200 mid-century modern homes, many of which were designed by notable architects. The company is credited with being one of the biggest influences behind the established modernist style that continues to be imitated all around the world.

Alexander Steel Houses

Where to find Alexander Steel Houses: East Molino Road and Sunny View Drive

Prior to making steel residential houses, Wexler had designed many school buildings using steel construction. He believed that the same methods could be used to build stylish and affordable homes, so he did just that with The Alexander Construction Company. Today, steel houses are a staple style of mid-century Palm Springs.

Swiss Miss Houses

Where to find Swiss Miss Homes: Vista Las Palmas

Built by the Alexander Construction Company, many Swiss Miss homes are scattered around Palm Springs and are notable for their A-frame façades. Charles Dubois is a notable architect who designed around 15 of these houses in Vista Las Palmas.

Art Moderne

Where to find Art Moderne buildings: Camino Monte Street and Palm Canyon Drive

Dating back to the early 1930s , Art Moderne is a style native to the U.S. and is like Art Deco, but more enhanced—think bigger, bolder, and brassier than its French counterpart. Featuring rounded, curvaceous forms and contrasting colors, Art Moderne houses in Palm Springs are hard to miss. 

Googie Buildings

Where to find Googie buildings: Palm Canyon Drive and San Lorenzo Road

To get an idea of what a Googie building is, imagine The Jetsons opening a modernist coffee shop. This architectural style also originated in SoCal around the same time as Art Moderne. The Atomic Age and local car culture inspired the signature geometric shapes of Googie buildings, making for wacky creations with exaggerated rooflines and generous usage of glass.

Royal Hawaiian Estates

Where to find Royal Hawaiian Estates: Palm Canyon Drive and Murray Canyon Drive

When Tiki architecture was in fashion, architects Wexler and Harrison combined their modernist ideas with Polynesian motifs to create the Royal Hawaiian Estates. These slightly less popular, mid-century modern homes in Palm Springs were declared a historic district by the city council in 2010.

Spanish Revival Houses

Where to find Spanish Revival houses: Avenida Palmas and Puerto Del Sol

Red-tile roofs, stone exteriors, and elaborate iron fencing—Spanish-style homes are highly sought-after in the Palm Springs area. These houses offer a more cozy and inviting vibe compared to mid-century modern estates, which feature sharp edges and futuristic details.

Need help with a home improvement project? Get a free quote today!

Enter your zip code.

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

When you provide your email address, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you are giving your consent to receive email communications from California.com regarding updates, happenings, special offers, and promotions from our partners.

RELATED Articles

RELATED CITIES

Discover More

11 Zoos in Northern California You Won't Want to Miss

While every zoo in the Golden State is worth visiting, there are a few must-sees that rise above the rest. Here are our favorites in NorCal.

The Best Day Trips from San Diego

Enjoy the weekend by taking one of these marvelous day trips from San Diego, perfect for a quick getaway from home.

5 Must-Visit California Record Stores for Vinyl Lovers

Bolster your collection or discover some new tunes, California record stores are legendary and influential throughout the industry.

The Best Wildlife Sanctuaries in California to Visit

Explore the top California wildlife sanctuaries, home to diverse ecosystems & incredible species, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Missing Modernism Week? Here Are 5 Iconic Homes in Palm Springs for a Unique Exterior Tour

Locale editors.

• March 1, 2024

These Architecture Tours Offer a Glimpse Into Palm Springs’ Funky Past

Consider yourself a fan of all things midcentury modern? With the clean lines, bold shapes and innovative designs of this iconic 1950s and ‘60s architectural style, who could resist? Lucky for you, Architecture Tours by Modernism Week is offering mid mod enthusiasts a glimpse into the past with world-class exterior home tours of some of the most architecturally significant residences in the Coachella Valley.

Palm Springs is a mecca for midcentury modern, and Modernism Week (an 11-day festival that takes place each February) is an epic ode to this unique style. Whether you missed out on this year’s festival or attended and simply can’t enough, these guided exterior tours provide an up-close and personal look at some of the region’s most stunning homes. Led by expert tour guide and owner and operator of PS Architecture Tours Trevor O’Donnell and a team of knowledgeable and friendly professionals, these small van exterior home tours are the perfect ways to experience the magic of midcentury design all season long.

Here are five homes you will see on the  Architecture Tours by Modernism Week tour that offer  an in-depth introduction to Palm Springs’ fascinating past and its rare concentration of amazing modernist homes and buildings.

1 | Edris House, 1954, by E. Stewart Williams

Nestled in the heart of Palm Springs, the Edris House by E. Stewart Williams is a prime example of architecture in harmony with its environment. Built in 1954, this residence exemplifies Williams’ belief that architecture should emerge from the earth, rather than just rest upon it. The use of knotless Douglas fir and local stone, along with the home’s integration into the indigenous landscape, showcases an organic design philosophy that respects and celebrates the natural world. The Edris House is a testament to Williams’ commitment to creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and deeply connected to their surroundings.

2 | Twin Palms – Frank Sinatra Estate, 1947, by E. Stewart Williams

The Twin Palms estate, also designed by E. Stewart Williams, marks a significant chapter in both architectural and Hollywood history. Originally envisioned as a Georgian-style home by Frank Sinatra, Williams managed to persuade the iconic singer to embrace a modernist approach. The result is a groundbreaking residence characterized by its low-slung, glass-walled design that is in harmony with the desert landscape. Beyond its architectural significance, Twin Palms holds a special place in Hollywood lore and was rightfully listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2016, celebrating its cultural and architectural impact.

3 | Kaufmann Desert House, 1946, by Richard Neutra

Richard Neutra’s Kaufmann Desert House is a masterpiece of international style architecture, designed for department store magnate Edgar Kaufmann in 1946. Known as one of Neutra’s most architecturally significant projects, the house was designed to foster a deep connection with the desert environment while providing shelter from its extreme conditions. Its significance in American architecture cannot be overstated, representing a pivotal moment in the evolution of modern residential design and its ability to integrate with and enhance its natural surroundings.

4 | Frey House II, 1963, by Albert Frey

Albert Frey’s second personal home in Palm Springs, Frey House II is a marvel of environmental sensitivity and architectural ingenuity. Despite its compact footprint of only 800 square feet, the residence is a fully functional living space that minimizes its impact on the natural environment. One of the home’s most distinctive features is a large boulder that not only is built into the structure but also divides the living and sleeping areas, further showcasing Frey’s philosophy of blending architecture with nature.

5 | Dinah Shore House, 1963, by Donald Wexler

The Dinah Shore House, designed by Donald Wexler in 1963 for the renowned actress and singer, stands as a shining example of midcentury modern design. Featuring a dramatic steel-beamed walkway, light-filled interiors and expansive rooms ideal for entertaining, the residence perfectly portrays the era’s architectural principles. Set on 1.3 lush acres, the home offers multiple terraces for dining and relaxation, which are all accessible from the main living areas to make for the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living.

These five homes, each with their unique history and architectural features, offer a glimpse into the innovative spirit of their designers and the timeless appeal of midcentury modern architecture. Modernism Week invites visitors to explore these iconic homes through these seasonal tours to continue to celebrate and preserve the rich architectural heritage of the Palm Springs we all know and love.

To book a tour, click here !

Modernism Week @modernism_week

This article is brought to you by one of the many talented writers associated with Locale Magazine! We are a group of locals (whether born and raised or transplanted) who love this county we now call home!

• Locale Editors https://localemagazine.com/author/locale-editors/ The Fletcher Jones Team in Newport Beach Spills the Tea on Their Dream Cars
• Locale Editors https://localemagazine.com/author/locale-editors/ 5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Health This Spring Without Joining a Gym
• Locale Editors https://localemagazine.com/author/locale-editors/ All of the Delicious Highlights of This Year’s Pebble Beach Food & Wine Festival
• Locale Editors https://localemagazine.com/author/locale-editors/ ENTER TO WIN a Round-Trip to Rhode Island for You and a Friend!
• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on Reddit
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on Instagram
• Share on YouTube
• Share on Email
• Share on WhatsApp

11 Unique San Diego Dining Experiences That’ll Knock Your Socks Off

12 Waterfront Restaurants in Orange County With Unforgettable Views

9 of the Coolest Dining Experiences in LA

Bare It All: Here Are 8 of the Best Nude Resorts in California

Subscribe to our newsletter.

• Itineraries

Related Content

Forks Out! We’re Taking You on a Delicious Dining Tour of The Shops on El Paseo

Get Your Foodie Fix With a Delicious Dining Tour of El Paseo in Palm Desert

7 Things to Experience in Greater Palm Springs When You’re Not Inside the Music Festival

When You’re Not Rocking out at Coachella or Stagecoach, Check Out These 8 Activities and Attractions in Greater Palm Springs

11 Coachella Valley Shops We Love for a Spring Wardrobe Refresh

Do Some Spring Shopping This Season at These Shops and Boutiques in Greater Palm Springs

No thanks, I’m not interested!

Architecture Tours by Modernism Week

All items are non-refundable, all sales are final.

Tickets are refundable on a case-by-case basis up to 7 days before the activity start time.   Refunds are issued for the ticket value only, not including service fees, and are credited to a Modernism Week electronic gift card.  No funds will be returned to your credit card .   Electronic gift card credits never expire and can be used for future Modernism Week events and online programs.

• Google Calendar
• Yahoo! Calendar

Select a Date

Select a Time:

©2023. All Rights Reserved. MADE is a California 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Privacy Policy

Need assistance? We're happy to help! Frequently Asked Questions I have a question for Customer Service about an event, tickets, or orders. I have a question for Tech Support about a technical issue with the site.

Need assistance? We're happy to help!

• Subscribe Today
• Gift Subscriptions
• Subscription Services

• Calendar of Events
• Submit Events
• Health & Wellness
• Top Dentists
• Top Doctors
• Arts & Entertainment
• Attractions
• Best of the Best
• Food & Drink
• Fashion & Style
• Valley Shopping
• Shop El Paseo
• El Paseo Store Directory
• Hotels & Resorts
• Home & Design
• Top Realtors
• More…

Meet Palm Springs Architecture Tour Guide Trevor O’Donnell

In partnership with modernism week, architecture tour guide trevor o'donnell engages guests in a deep two-and-a-half-hour dialogue..

Lisa Marie Hart November 18, 2023 Modernism

On the Architecture Tours by Modernism Week mini coach, your education in local modernism includes highlights around the city of Palm Springs. PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID SPARKS

Trevor O’Donnell has just as much fun tapping into his architecture knowledge now as when he stepped in front of his first tour group 11 years ago. “I find new things to talk about. I meet homeowners who tell interesting backstories. So, the tour evolves,” he says. “The more I learn, the more I’m able to include.” O’Donnell’s PS Architecture Tours partnered with Modernism Week to establish Architecture Tours by Modernism Week, now in its third season promoting the history and design of Palm Springs.

IN THE BEGINNING: When I moved to Palm Springs in 2011, I began helping the late Robert Imber with his architectural tours after being seated next to him at a dinner party. Eventually on my own, I had more business than I knew what to do with and I approached Modernism Week about expanding together.   Our Architecture Tours by Modernism Week offers an in-depth introduction to modernist homes and buildings, both well-known and obscure, late October through May.

THE COACH AWAITS: Our 22-seat mini coach accommodates individuals and small groups without needing to use microphones or headsets. It’s intimate enough that it’s kind of a traveling conversation, based on the interests of those on board.

SET THE NAV : Leaving from Albert Frey’s Tramway Gas Station, we visit Donald Wexler’s Steel Houses then wind through beautiful neighborhoods, stopping to consider dozens of outstanding works including E. Stewart Williams’ Frank Sinatra House.

Palm Springs City Hall, 1952-57, by John Porter Clark, Robson Chambers, Albert Frey, E. Stewart Williams .

HOW FAR WE’VE COME: People hated midcentury modern architecture back in the ’80s. They thought it was tacky and dated and not terribly well-built.

TOUR TRADEMARK: I’m not afraid to go deep. I can get super geeky with historians and academics, but I can be just as excited about the colored doors of Vista Las Palmas and the swinging Dean Martin era.

WHAT IT’S NOT: A lot of people come with a George Jetson, kitschy 1950s idea of what they’re going to see. The reality is that people took modern architecture seriously here. It wasn’t meant to be faddish or a shallow enterprise. Those who came to Palm Springs in the ’40s, ’50s, and ’60s were sophisticated people who hired talented architects to do their thing. They may have had a traditional home elsewhere, but they were willing to embrace the modern style. There’s a real integrity that goes much, much deeper than that surface-level expectation often reinforced by social media and HGTV.

An Alexander Company tract home, 1958, designed by Charles Du Bois.

PAST LIVES: I’ve been a marketing and publicity exec for live theatre in New York and L.A., but I’ve been an architecture buff my whole life.

ON THE GO: Wherever I am, I make a point of seeking out, learning about, and admiring architecture. So, I love my job. I live in a city that’s full of really great architecture while getting to meet people from all over the world and share my enthusiasm.

• READ NEXT: How Modernism Week got started in Palm Springs: An oral history.

• Palm Springs Art Museum on Facebook Facebook icon
• Palm Springs Art Museum on Twitter Twitter icon
• Palm Springs Art Museum on Instagram Instagram icon

Current Exhibition Tour

Join our museum docents for a 1-hour guided tour of our current special exhibition. Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in at the Admissions Desk. Included with your admission.

*subject to the availability of our volunteer Docents

ALBERT FREY: INVENTIVE MODERNIST

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Summer Thornton’s Mexico Vacation Home Is Our Idea of Pink Paradise

P.S. You can rent it.

“It automatically puts you in this fantasy realm,” says Summer. And she is exactly the type of artist and out-of-the-box adventurer the vibrant town of Sayulita attracts. Surrounded by mountains and jungle on one side and the blue-green Pacific on the other, “it’s a place that invites you to lose yourself and follow your dreams,” she adds.

Her dream: to design and build an oceanfront tropical home for her family’s vacations, yes, but also to offer as an innovative, luxury rental property with the staff and services of a top-tier hotel. “I wanted guests to feel as if it was personal and private, like a friend had invited them to their amazing house in Mexico,” she says.

Still, such an endeavor would have humble beginnings. Summer and Josh purchased a late 20th-century house with a side garden/courtyard that was not in great shape. In fact, a pair of wooden arched doors was the only part of the house worth saving.

Today that salvaged front door has been rightsized with a surrounding concrete arch that suits the new home’s grand scale, says local architect Enrique García, who collaborated with Summer on the project. Just beyond it “the courtyard greets you as if it is the hostess of the house,” he says. “It’s how we structure spaces to create circulation and flow like a foyer.”

Summer adds, “The idea was to make it look as if we found the courtyard ‘as is’ and built a modern structure around it.” Underfoot in the central patio, she arranged colorful handmade Moroccan tiles in a pattern that, to García, “is like a painting” anchoring the home. Concrete walls were plastered with chukum , a traditional Mayan mixture made from a combination of limestone powder and the sap from a tree grown only in the Yucatán Peninsula.

“Chukum withstands salt spray and leaves a beautiful patina over time,” she notes. Rather than adding a bright, “beachy” color to it, Summer wanted a hue that would feel playful and fun during the day and moody at night. “Mexico feels like pink to me, so I chose a melon-ish, terra-cotta-type shade. It has this warmth that holds you.”

Conversational seating awaits in the large sunken living room, where “you can hear the ocean and feel the sea breeze.” Anchoring both arrangements is a custom coffee table crafted from a local wood that easily withstands salt and humidity and dubbed Tortuga for the turtles that nest and hatch on the beach directly in front of the house. Shades of ochre, dusty green, deep jade, and the all-over easygoing pink reference hues that repeat throughout the region and tropical landscape.

Summer thinks of the look as inspired by Mexican architect Luis Barragán at the beach. “Casa Rosada is loose and open, reflecting a sense of adventure and whimsy and the idea of ‘why not?’” And like the butterflies that flutter in through the open-air layout, this lightness of spirit finds its way into each of the home’s bedrooms. Through romantic arched corridors, beds stand as works of art, adorned with tassels and shell carvings and red coral in color-coded sanctuaries ranging from deep jade to dusty plum.

In one suite an outdoor chukum tub is shrouded in bougainvillea; another bedroom steps out to a private sunbathing area. “I didn’t want it to feel like there was one glorious bedroom and the rest are little afterthoughts, so each of them has a little something special,” Summer says.

As the sun sets and she and guests gather around the dining room’s 16-foot-long table, two gold leaf chandeliers dangle like wondrous low-hanging palm branches. These are already turning a beautiful copper green from the salt air. This, too, is a slice of Summer’s fantasy. “Vacation homes are different from everyday life—they’re built around play and a strong sense of place,” she says.

Casa Rosada is indeed a home with a soul, adds García. “In the evenings, when you’re sitting in the dining room having dinner and you look out toward the patio with the water falling in the fountain and the lights in the palm trees, you feel like the spirit of the house lives right there.”

Summer with her husband, Josh, outside the newly built home.

In the entry courtyard, a slender fountain crafted of volcanic stone rises from an emerald arrangement of zellige tiles ( Zia Tile ). Pots of small blue agave climb the steps above an antique bench Thornton found in San Miguel de Allende.

Living Room

Exquisite Mexican craft in the form of a carved parota wood coffee table anchors each of the sunken living room’s seating areas.

Sitting Room

Exotic birds flutter across a vintage tapestry in an oceanfront sitting room.

Dining Room

A pair of exuberant palm leaf chandeliers ( Casamidy ) casts a golden shimmer over dinner parties. Rattan chairs, Sika-Design

A custom palm mural by Mexican artist Priscila González Urrea envelops the kitchen in tropical splendor. The wicker pendant is by Mestiz ; gas range, Wolf Kitchen . Echoing the mural’s tropical leaves, an embossed tin mirror ( Casamidy ) hangs above a red travertine skirted sink (fabric, Perennials ). Rustic copper sink fixtures, Sonoma Forge

A soaring wall of windows ushers light and fresh air into the art studio. Bunk cushion fabric, CW Stockwell .

The vein-cut travertine pool terrace is a breezy perch for catching salt air and sunsets. Copper lanterns, Casamidy .

Tormillo wood chaises (A&D Interiors) are dressed in a matchstick-stripe (fabric, CW Stockwell ) mimicking Casa Rosada’s pink façade and leafy pillows (fabric, Élitis ) echoing the surrounding palm leaves. Gold beach towels, Business & Pleasure

Outdoor Dining

Playful settings animate the outdoor dining table, with erizos de mar (or sea urchins) dancing across ceramic plates by Mestiz .

Primary Bedroom

In Summer’s bedroom, a painted red coral bed is upholstered in Penny Morrison ’s Inca Vertical Stripe. Bed, Casamidy . Fringe chandelier, Daniela Bustos Maya .

Primary Bathroom

On the balcony of Summer’s room, a custom limestone soaking tub cocooned in soft peach linen draperies (fabric, Mokum ) overlooks the Pacific.

Garden Room Bedroom and Bath

Within the jade Garden Room, a jute tassel tieback ( Samuel & Sons ) adorns a silver wrought-iron headboard with an antique finish. A parotta wood bench ( Muebla ) is topped with a Pierre Frey chevron stripe. Drapery fabric, Perennials .

The Garden Room bath’s Elle Green marble countertop and backsplash echoes the home’s surrounding verdure. White plaster shell sconces flank sleek Casamidy mirrors

Outdoor Shower and Bath

Off the Garden Room, a private outdoor shower within the pink chukum walls. The rustic copper exposed shower is by Sonoma Forge , and the woven lounge chair with rosy powder-coated legs is by Mexa .

A soaking tub and teak armless lounge chair ( Montauk Sofa ) outfitted in plush emerald Perennials -covered cushions are enveloped by a leafy wall of philodendron. Striped pillow fabric, Dedar . Patterned pillow fabric, Élitis

Sunset Bedroom

Crowning the Sunset guest suite is a custom Baroque headboard resplendent in silver leaf detailing ( Casamidy ).

Guest Bedroom

Tasseled pom-pom trim dangles playfully from carved oak canopy beds.

Architectural Details

How to Rent Casa Rosada

This house tour reveal concludes our Designing the Dream series with Summer Thornton . The good news? This fully staffed private home is available to rent for your next vacation. You can book Casa Rosada through the property's website , Airbnb , and VRBO

Interior design by Summer Thornton ; architecture by Enrique García ; landscape design by Jorge del Real; photography by Annie Schlechter ; styling by Mieke ten Have

House Tours

Oscar de la Renta’s Home Is Pure Island Elegance

Tour a Greek Revival on the Kiawah River

A Palm Springs Villa Made for Desert Lounging

This California Home Is an Open-Air Masterpiece

Step Inside This Gatsby-esque Atlanta Estate

A Modernist Lakeside Playground

A Romantic and Coastal Block Island Retreat

This West Hollywood Home is a Collector's Dream

Tour CeCe Barfield Thompson's NYC Apartment

Step Inside This Greek Revival Home Built in 1820

Tour the 2024 Kips Bay Palm Beach Show House

A first look at what Palm Springs library could look like after a $40 million facelift

T he architecture firm tasked with handling a planned $40 million overhaul of Palm Springs' nearly 50-year-old library shared new renderings for the project last week.

The indoor and exterior renderings were shown Thursday as the city council received an update on the progress of the project. The renovation will need to be completed by the end of March 2026 to comply with the terms of a state grant that is providing part of the funding.

David Schnee, a principal at Group 4 Architecture, said his firm was about 50% done with design work for the project. Schnee also shared data collected through outreach done to gather community input on the project.

How community input informed design

Among the aspects of the design that community members had been asked about during that outreach process was their preferred "theme" that would guide the interior design of the library. The three themes surveys and other outreach asked about were: "Cool+Fluid," "Colorful+Lively" and "Warm+Timeless," with the latter most closely matching the existing feel of the library.

Schnee said about 33% of respondents preferred "Cool + Fluid" while 23% preferred each of the other two options.

Other questions asked residents to identify which types of classes and programs they would like to see offered at the library. In the initial more general input phase, the most popular offerings included programs focused on local culture and history and classes focused on arts and crafts and language.

As a result, Schnee said his firm has included in the design a makerspace, which contains tools and other elements people can use to make things, and a createspace, a space focused on creative activities.

Later in the process, respondents' top preferences for what to see in the makerspace were 3-D printing, robotics and coding programs. Art and do-it-yourself classes were the top preferences for the createspace. Schnee said the new design will also include a local art gallery and children's play space, which was also favored by over 60% of those who provided input.

The interior

The renderings showed several portions of the interior of the library, including the central portion where the library's trademark koi pond will be restored and new study rooms, which Schnee said are one of the most in-demand areas of modern libraries. Here is a look at those interior renderings:

Exterior landscaping

Group 4 Architecture is working with RIOS, the landscape architecture firm that designed Palm Springs' Downtown Park, to redo the library's landscaping and surroundings.

Schnee said the firm is pursuing an "Oasis Retreat" theme for the exterior that was favored by the project. He showed multiple renderings of the exterior showing a design that will replace the grass surrounding the library with native plants and landscaping, including palms and palos verdes trees that will provide new shade.

Other elements of the design that he showed included an expanded parking area and the addition of up to four new courtyard spaces, although Schnee said plans for those courtyards have not been finalized and will depend on whether they ultimately fit into the project's budget.

Council expresses concern about community input

Following the presentation, council members praised both the design and the progress of the work. However, multiple members said they were concerned that respondents to an online survey on the redesign did not come close to mirroring the city's demographics. White and older residents were overrepresented and younger residents and racial minorities, particularly Latino residents, were underrepresented.

However, Library Director Jeannie Kays said those surveys represented only a portion of the city's efforts to get feedback. She believed the city had received more participation and responses from those groups, particularly Latino residents, at in-person outreach events, including a family fun fest event that she said was attended by over 400 people. She noted that every in-person event also had bilingual staff present and that officials also did targeted outreach to younger people through the Boys & Girls Club.

Kays also said, though, that she would be willing to get more input.

Paul Albani-Burgio covers growth, development and business in the Coachella Valley. Follow him on Twitter at @albaniburgiop and email him at [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: A first look at what Palm Springs library could look like after a $40 million facelift

Photos: What Palm Springs library could look like after a $40 million facelift