Palm Springs: Modernism Week Must-Sees

With more than 350 events and 70,000 enthusiasts, Modernism Week returns to Palm Springs this week to celebrate the city’s status as a Modernist Mecca. Palm Springs’s modernist influence was realized during Hollywood’s Golden Age of the 1950s when movie stars—including Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Bing Crosby and many more— escaped the fuss of Los Angeles for the more relaxed environs of Palm Springs. Running February 14th to 24th Modernism Week features home tours, films, lectures and much more. Along with them came the Mid-century Modern inspired architects who would design dream homes to the stars (some on the market  today) and breathe new life into the desertscape with sleek lines and organic forms. Modernism Week—proudly sponsored by Douglas Elliman—is an annual celebration of that rich history running February 14th to 24th featuring home tours, films, lectures and much more. Some exciting things to expect this year? Bright pops of color. Floor-to-ceiling windows. Beautiful details. Sparkling pools. Unexpected sources of light. Stunning mid-century furniture. Structural lines and shadows. Work from notable architects and interior designers such as Albert Frey, Paul Rudolph, Jack Meiselman, Arthur Elrod, Christopher Kennedy and Barry Berkus will all be on display. Must-See Properties La Vie En Rose Photo credit: Modernism Week Originally built in 1958, master interior designer Christopher Kennedy debuts a spectacular renovation of this posh Rose Avenue property. Located in Vista Las Palmas, the home features a stunning backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains. Eichler Palms Photo: Modernism Week The seventh and possibly last Eichler home, this newly-built masterpiece has been designed by Anshen + Allen. This fun and colorful property features an amazing outdoor space perfect for large gatherings. The first Eichler home that went on the market in Palm Springs sold within seven hours for $1.29M! The Cree Residence, aka, “The Forgotten Frey” Photo: Lance Gerber, Palm Springs Life  This amazing work of art by architect Albert Frey will be on view to the public for the first time. Originally built in 1955, the home has been owned since the same family since 1970, who have meticulously maintained it to its original condition. The home was entirely built into the mountain, leaving the structure of the mountain untouched. Frey is widely recognized for shaping what is Desert Modernism today. Axiom Desert House Photo: Turkel Design : Joel and Meelena Turkel Turkel Design is redefining the relationship between architect and client with their high-end, comprehensive design services. Their most recent project, Axiom Desert House, will be on display this year. With the most amazing open floor plan and prime indooroutdoor living, this systems-built jewel is a sure sight to see. If you’re lucky, you could even win a private one-night stay for you and a guest. Can’t-Miss Tours Desert X Photo: Lance Gerber, Desert X Designer: Doug Aitken The spectacular Desert X tour is back again this year just in time for Modernism Week, and will feature contemporary installations and works of art all over the city. All guests escorted by bus, the tour will last around 4 hours and end with a drink at sunset. The Movie Colony Neighborhood Photo: Luxury Retreats Also famously noted as Frank Sinatra’s neighborhood, The Movie Colony is an area that blends classic Spanish Colonial Revival with mid-century modern designs. Renowned architects such as E. Stewart Williams, Donald Wexler, and William Cody have all constructed significant projects here. Swing by the homes of Hollywood’s elite (then and now) and even catch a glimpse of Frank Sinatra’s “Twin Palms” home. Double-Decker Bus Tour Photo: Matt Guilhem, KVCR News