This small collection of midcentury abodes is the work of architect Donald Wexler, who designed a series of affordable prefabricated steel and glass residences for developers George and Robert Alexander between 1961 and 1962. Though initially expected to be part of a large community, rising steel costs thwarted the project, and only seven homes were completed. Today, the septet stands as a block-wide historical landmark and stunning example of preserved midcentury design.
While this chic pad, designed by James McNaughton in 1973, once belonged to “Kojak” actor Telly Savalas, it is most famous for its towering entrance outfitted in bright blush – so much so that it has come to be referred to as “That Pink Door” on Instagram. If you’ve ever scrolled through the feed of a California-based influencer, you’ve undoubtedly come across its gorgeous, pastel detailing. Known in architectural circles as Villa Sierra, not only is the magnificent property visible from the road, but dogged fans can spend a night on the premises as it currently operates as a short-term rental that sleeps eight.
This expressionistic monolith was originally built as a City National Bank in 1959. Designed by Rudi Baumfeld of Victor Gruen & Associates, the structure was inspired by the adobe architecture of the Southwest, as well as France’s Notre Dame Du Haut chapel, and was deemed “the most beautiful bank in America” by “Southwest Building and Contractor” magazine upon its completion. It remains a landmark today. Don’t miss the original coin scale, on display in the lobby and fully accessible for customers to try out themselves.
First displayed at the 1931 Architectural and Allied Arts Exposition in New York, the Aluminiaire House, designed by Albert Frey and A. Lawrence Kocher, was created as an experimental example of affordable prefab living. Standing three stories, the 22- by 28-foot, 1,200-square-foot structure, which is enveloped in aluminum alloy and steel, took 10 days to complete. Considered a marvel of its day, the piece went into private collection shortly after the exposition and subsequently fell into disrepair. It was ultimately acquired by the Palm Springs Art Museum in 2020 and, after a lengthy restoration, was installed on permanent display. Recognized by Architectural Record as “one of the most important buildings completed worldwide in the past 125 years,” Aluminaire House is open Thursdays through Mondays and admission is free. (Note – only its exterior can be viewed. Interior access is not permitted.)
One of the most famous residences in the world (let alone Palm Springs!), the Kaufmann House was designed by Richard Neutra in 1946. Famed photographer Julius Shulman’s 1947 images of the place turned it into a landmark virtually overnight, and it has gone on to become one of the most photographed pads in history – so much so that when it was listed for sale with Christie’s auction house in 2007, it was categorized not as a piece of real estate, but a work of art! The property also boasts a handful of non-architectural claims to fame – not only did singer Barry Manilow call it home for several years, but it appeared prominently as Chris Pine’s pad in 2022’s “Don’t Worry Darling.”
This stunning sanctuary is the work of architect William F. Cody. Erected in 1968 and eloquently described by ”Explorer’s Guide” as ”a modernist contemplation of a Gothic cathedral,” the church is a marvel, featuring sloping walls that cinematically curve upward toward a soaring wood-beamed ceiling. Cody, who crafted everything from the structure’s stained glass windows to the baptismal font, was recognized by the Golden Palms Award Committee for his design, which garnered quite a celebrity following, with everyone from Bob and Dolores Hope to Loretta Young attending mass on the modernist premises. Sonny Bono’s funeral was even hosted at St. Theresa’s following his untimely death in 1998, as was Cody’s in 1978, just a decade after the church’s completion.
Designed by powerhouse architects Albert Frey, E. Stewart Williams, John Porter Clark and Robson C. Chambers, Palm Springs City Hall was constructed over a period of five years beginning in 1952. The one-story concrete block structure is fronted by a handsome brise-soleil forged from aluminum piping and a massive canopy complete with a circular cutout through which three towering palms grow. The striking visage is an impeccable reflection of the city’s modernist heritage.
A chain hardware store might seem like an odd inclusion on this list, but not all Ace Hardwares are created the same, and the Palm Springs outlet is truly singular! Stocked with pretty much everything you’d ever need to stylishly outfit your yard, including lighting, dishware, garden accents and BBQ accouterments, the place is best known for its incredible array of stylish patio furnishings, with plenty of design consultants on hand to help with your selections. In Palm Springs, Ace is definitely the place to bring your outdoor living space to the next level.
The most charming bottle shop I’ve ever happened upon, PSBS is a revelation! Teeming with colorful aisles stocked with the prettiest (and tastiest) liquor and wine offerings, whimsical gifts, and gourmet food specialties, I only recently discovered the store and could hardly tear myself away, walking out with a handful of birthday presents for a friend and a stellar selection of ready-to-drink mocktails. The vast majority of items sourced are from LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women-owned businesses, affording a feel-good shopping experience through and through. Bonus – the store has a sister location inside the Mojave Flea Trading Post in North Palm Springs.
If it’s vintage wares you’re seeking, look no further than this sprawling 40,000-square-foot marketplace. Offering everything from antique furnishings to clothing to art, all beautifully arranged with the look of a high-end department store, one can easily spend countless hours searching the colorful displays for endless vintage treasures.
