Palm Springs, California, is a mecca for fans of midcentury modern architecture. The city boasts an incredible collection of sleek, stylish homes that reflect the optimism and clean lines of the postwar era. Whether you’re a dedicated architecture buff or simply appreciate great design, exploring the iconic neighborhoods of Palm Springs is a must.
In the middle years of the 20th century, the mountains and desert sands of California’s Coachella Valley inspired a distinctive branch of the Modern Movement that would become known as Desert Modernism. Notable for its extensive use of glass, deep overhangs, natural and manmade materials, and indoor/outdoor spaces, Desert Modernism embraced mountain views and the area’s warm climate, defining a lifestyle of elegant informality.
This design atmosphere inspired talented local and visiting architects to adapt contemporary materials, techniques, and floor plans to the unique requirements of desert living — resulting in modern structures of every size and function. Remarkably, much of this historic legacy still exists today and can be appreciated by later generations of modernists.
Many of the most famous examples of midcentury architecture are private residences, so it’s important to admire these homes from the street and always respect the privacy of homeowners. Some homes can be toured through organized events like Modernism Week, but for most, a self-guided driving tour is the perfect way to take in the sights.
I’ll include an embedded Google Map below to help you easily locate some must-see spots. Here is a list of key addresses and neighborhoods to include on your tour:
| Location | Address / Area |
| Kaufmann Desert House | 470 W Vista Chino |
| Twin Palms Frank Sinatra House | 1145 E Via Colusa |
| Edris House | 1030 W Cielo Drive |
| Alexander Construction Company Homes | Racquet Club Estates neighborhood |
| Frey House II | Above the Palm Springs Art Museum (view from afar) |
| William Krisel-designed homes | Twin Palms neighborhood |
| Hugh M. Kaptur designs | Deepwell Estates and surrounding areas |
This is just a starting point — Palm Springs is filled with architectural gems, from small homes to glamorous estates, all set against the stunning desert backdrop.
Before heading out, be sure to check local resources like Visit Palm Springs or Modernism Week for events, tours, and updates.
Enjoy your drive, take plenty of photos (from public areas!), and soak in the timeless style of Palm Springs’ midcentury modern heritage.
Notable Architects
Palm Springs attracted some of the most talented architects of the midcentury era. Here are a few notable names whose work helped shape the city’s iconic modernist look:
- A. Lawrence Kocher
- A. Quincy Jones
- Albert Frey
- Barry Berkus
- Charles Du Bois
- Charles Luckman
- Craig Ellwood
- Dan Palmer
- Donald Wexler
- E. Stewart Williams
- Edward Fickett
- Herbert W. Burns
- Howard Lapham
- Hugh Kaptur
- James McNaughton
- John Lautner
- John Porter Clark
- Lloyd Wright
- Paul R. Williams
- Richard Neutra
- Robson C. Chambers
- Victor Gruen Associates
- Walter White
- William F. Cody
- William Krisel
- William Pereira
