Modernism Week in Palm Springs: The Ultimate Celebration of Mid-Century Modern Architecture and Design
- Mid-Century Gems | MCG Official ✓ Fact Checked by For The Writers
- Jan 24
- 11 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Every February, the desert city of Palm Springs transforms into a mecca for lovers of mid-century modernism during Modernism Week. This ten-day festival draws tens of thousands of visitors from around the world. Architects, preservationists, designers, and everyday design enthusiasts gather to celebrate the enduring legacy of mid-century architecture, art, and culture in a place that arguably boasts one of the most intact and extensive collections of mid-century buildings in the world. Initially launched in 2006 as a modest tribute to Palm Springs’ architectural heritage, Modernism Week has evolved into a global event featuring more than 350 thoughtfully curated programs, including exclusive home tours, film screenings, lectures, design expos, and glamorous social gatherings.
What sets Modernism Week apart is its immersive nature. Attendees don’t just observe history—they walk through it. Private residences by iconic architects like Albert Frey, William Krisel, Donald Wexler, and E. Stewart Williams open their doors to the public, offering rare, behind-the-scenes access to some of the most celebrated—and sometimes untouched—examples of mid-century residential design. Many of these homes are hidden in historic neighborhoods such as Twin Palms, Vista Las Palmas, and Racquet Club Estates, where desert modernism flourished in the postwar boom. Visitors can tour original Alexander-built tract homes, marvel at butterfly rooflines and breeze block walls, and explore interiors styled with period-correct furniture and art. For the design-obsessed, it’s a living museum of 1950s and '60s lifestyle and aesthetics.
Beyond the architecture, Modernism Week offers in-depth programming that dives into the intellectual, cultural, and social movements behind the modernist ethos. Attendees can sit in on lectures from scholars, historians, and practicing architects who contextualize mid-century modernism within broader narratives of urban planning, sustainability, and American postwar optimism. Exhibitions at venues like the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center showcase both vintage and contemporary modernist works, while design fairs and curated pop-up shops offer everything from collectible furniture to rare architectural ephemera.
The atmosphere is effortlessly stylish, endlessly photogenic, and infused with the kind of nostalgia that feels more cinematic than sentimental. Poolside cocktail parties, retro fashion shows, and mod revival concerts bring the era to life with just the right amount of kitsch. Whether you’re sipping a Tom Collins in a perfectly preserved tiki bar, browsing a vintage trailer show, or listening to Julius Shulman’s photographs come alive through storytelling, Modernism Week delivers an experience that’s equal parts education, preservation, and pure desert glamour.
Signature Events and Highlights of Modernism Week
Modernism Week is an invitation to step directly into the golden age of design. With unparalleled access to some of the most significant mid-century modern landmarks in the world, the festival offers an expertly curated slate of experiences that blend education, entertainment, and high design. From exclusive architectural tours and in-depth lectures to retro-fueled soirées and hands-on workshops, Modernism Week delivers a dynamic, all-access immersion into the people, places, and ideas that defined—and continue to shape—modernist culture. Whether you're a seasoned preservationist, a design professional, or simply a curious newcomer, the week’s signature events provide something truly unforgettable at every turn.
Iconic Home Tours
Modernism Week’s architectural tours offer unparalleled access to some of the most iconic—and elusive—mid-century modern homes in Palm Springs. These are living time capsules, each revealing the creative brilliance of architects who redefined how we live, build, and move through space. From groundbreaking innovations in prefab construction to glamorous Hollywood hideaways, these highlights represent the soul of desert modernism.
Modernism Week Architectural Tour Highlights
1. The Kaufmann Desert House (Richard Neutra, 1946)
Arguably the crown jewel of Palm Springs modernism, Neutra’s Kaufmann House is a masterclass in restraint, proportion, and environmental harmony. Commissioned by department store magnate Edgar Kaufmann (of Fallingwater fame), the house captures the stark beauty of the desert through its floating planes, slender steel supports, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Photographed by the likes of Julius Shulman and Slim Aarons, it's more than a home—it’s a symbol of modernism’s ascendency in the American West.
2. Frey House II (Albert Frey, 1964)
Built into the San Jacinto mountainside, Frey’s personal residence is a minimalist marvel that merges architecture with geology. A boulder literally pierces the living room wall, becoming part of the interior landscape. With less than 800 square feet of living space, the home is a study in spatial efficiency, radical simplicity, and sensory immersion. The panoramic desert views from its glass walls are among the most breathtaking in Palm Springs—and that's saying something.
3. Steel Development Houses (Donald Wexler & Richard Harrison, 1961)
In a bold experiment in affordable, climate-adapted housing, Wexler designed a series of prefab steel homes intended for mass production. Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and assembled in days, these homes anticipated the future of residential architecture. Only seven were built before steel prices soared, but they remain some of the most sought-after properties in the city—testaments to a vision that was decades ahead of its time.
4. Twin Palms Estate (E. Stewart Williams, 1947)
When Frank Sinatra asked for a house he could move into by Christmas, Williams delivered—sparking a trend that would draw celebrities to Palm Springs for decades. With its long horizontal lines, open living spaces, and piano-shaped pool, Twin Palms is both intimate and theatrical. Every detail—from the breeze-block privacy walls to the built-in cocktail bar—exudes postwar elegance and the louche charm of mid-century Hollywood.
5. The House of Tomorrow (William Krisel, 1960)
A futuristic fantasia of glass and concrete, Krisel’s four-pod design defied conventional floor plans and embraced the optimism of the Space Age. The sunken living room, terrazzo floors, and floor-to-ceiling glass panels make it feel both ahead of its time and deeply rooted in its era. Known as the “Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway,” it’s a beloved symbol of mid-century excess, exuberance, and unabashed style.
Read the full story behind the House of Tomorrow and discover how one iconic Palm Springs home became a masterpiece of mid-century modern design, and the backdrop to a rock ’n’ roll love story.
These architectural icons are just a glimpse of what Modernism Week has to offer. Each tour is a guided exploration of history, culture, and innovation. Whether you’re tracing the line of a cantilevered roof, admiring an original period kitchen, or just imagining yourself with a martini in hand on a breeze-block patio, the experience is unforgettable. Modernism Week’s tours are not just about architecture—they’re about stepping inside a world where design was bold, the future was bright, and every detail mattered.
Parties and Social Events
What’s Modernism Week without a little mid-century glamour? This festival doesn’t just celebrate architecture and design—it brings the entire era to life, from the cocktail culture to the effortless cool of the 1950s and ‘60s. Whether you’re lounging at a poolside soiree, sipping a Manhattan at a speakeasy-style jazz night, or dancing under the stars in a vintage-inspired ensemble, the social events are an essential part of the experience.
Signature Gatherings
The Modernism Week Opening Party: A star-studded kickoff event where mid-century enthusiasts, design icons, and vintage fashion lovers come together for an unforgettable night of music, cocktails, and classic Palm Springs vibes. Expect live jazz, a stylish crowd, and impeccable design inspiration everywhere you look.
The Vintage Trailer Show and Afterparty: Step inside restored Airstreams, Shastas, and mid-century travel trailers, each one a perfectly preserved time capsule of retro road-tripping glory. The afterparty is the perfect place to swap stories, admire atomic-age interiors, and enjoy classic cocktails under the neon glow.
The Sinatra Estate Party: Held at Twin Palms, Frank Sinatra’s legendary Palm Springs home, this event is the closest you’ll get to a private cocktail hour with Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. Martinis flow, the piano plays, and guests channel their inner Rat Pack in one of the most iconic mid-century estates in the country.
Mid-Century Costume Ball: A chance to dress to the nines in true vintage style—whether you go for Mad Men sleek, Palm Springs resort chic, or full-on go-go dancer vibes, this is where fashion meets fantasy.
Poolside Cocktail Soirees: Imagine lounging by a vintage kidney-shaped pool, cocktail in hand, while a live bossa nova band plays in the background. These sunset gatherings feel like stepping onto the set of a Slim Aarons photograph—effortlessly cool and undeniably glamorous.
Tiki Nights and Desert Luaus: Palm Springs meets Polynesia in these tropical-themed parties featuring rum punch, tiki torches, and vintage surf tunes. Expect Mai Tais, floral prints, and plenty of retro island vibes.
From exclusive cocktail parties in historic estates to themed gatherings that transport you straight into the mid-century era, Modernism Week’s social events are just as iconic as its architecture. Whether you’re here to mingle, dance, or simply soak in the atmosphere, these parties prove that the mid-century lifestyle wasn’t just about design—it was about having a damn good time.
Lectures and Panels
For those who love a deep dive into design, architecture, and cultural history, Modernism Week’s lectures and panels bring together some of the brightest minds in the field. These thought-provoking discussions explore everything from the evolution of mid-century design to the architects and designers who shaped the movement. Whether you’re an industry professional, an aspiring preservationist, or just someone who loves a good design story, these sessions offer rare insights, archival discoveries, and expert perspectives on what makes mid-century modernism so timeless.
Past Topics:
"The Legacy of Neutra: Form Meets Function in Modernism." – A deep dive into how Richard Neutra’s designs still influence contemporary architecture today.
"Women of Mid-Century Modernism: The Architects, Designers, and Pioneers Who Shaped the Movement." – An eye-opening panel showcasing the often-overlooked women who left an indelible mark on modernist design.
"Then & Now: How Mid-Century Design Still Shapes Contemporary Architecture." – Exploring how the principles of mid-century design—open floor plans, minimalist aesthetics, and indoor-outdoor living—continue to inspire architects today.
"Palm Springs Preservation: Saving the Desert’s Architectural Icons." – A behind-the-scenes look at efforts to restore and protect some of the city’s most beloved mid-century landmarks.
"The Mid-Century Marketplace: How Collectors and Designers Keep the Era Alive." – A fascinating discussion with curators and collectors about the ongoing love affair with mid-century furniture and decor.
From exclusive interviews with legendary architects to panels on the future of modernist preservation, these sessions bring the movement to life—one conversation at a time.
Exhibitions and Installations
If you live and breathe mid-century design (or just want to surround yourself with iconic aesthetics), Modernism Week’s exhibitions and installations are an absolute must. From rare architectural photography to immersive art installations, each exhibit showcases the craftsmanship, innovation, and enduring appeal of the mid-century movement. Whether you’re here to admire vintage treasures, hunt for the perfect Eames chair, or get lost in the sleek lines of a retro-futuristic installation, this is where past meets present in the most stylish way possible.
Past highlights include:
A Restored 1960s Airstream Exhibit – A stunning collection of restored vintage Airstream trailers, complete with atomic-age interiors that highlight the golden era of retro travel design. Step inside and experience the magic of teak cabinetry, avocado-green upholstery, and space-age curves that made these trailers an American icon.
The Mid-Century Marketplace – A dream for design lovers, this curated market brings together collectors, artisans, and dealers selling everything from rare ceramics and fiberglass shell chairs to original starburst chandeliers and Danish teak credenzas. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or just a funky addition to your collection, this is the place to find it.
Immersive Art Installations – Past years have featured life-size neon sculptures, interactive digital projections, and Bauhaus-inspired installations, all designed to reinterpret and celebrate the bold, experimental nature of mid-century modernism.
Rare Architectural Photography – Featuring legendary photographers like Julius Shulman and Ezra Stoller, these exhibitions capture the movement’s most famous structures, from Palm Springs’ sun-drenched desert homes to Case Study masterpieces in Los Angeles.
The Modernist Furniture Showcase – A curated collection of original and contemporary mid-century furniture designs, letting visitors get up close with the iconic shapes and materials that define the era—think sleek walnut credenzas, Barcelona chairs, and low-profile sectionals.
From meticulously restored classics to innovative reimaginings, these exhibitions bring the spirit of mid-century modernism to life in a way that’s immersive, interactive, and absolutely unforgettable.
Known as the "Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway," the House of Tomorrow is one of Modernism Week’s most iconic tour stops. Designed by William Krisel in 1960, its futuristic, four-pod layout and sunken living room capture the exuberance of mid-century innovation, while its connection to Elvis and Priscilla Presley adds a layer of cultural legend to this architectural time capsule.
Why Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is a living museum of mid-century modern design. With its unparalleled concentration of modernist homes, iconic commercial buildings, and visionary public spaces, it has rightfully earned its reputation as the epicenter of mid-century modern architecture.
So, why did this desert oasis become a mecca for modernism? The answer lies in its perfect storm of climate, culture, and creativity.
A Playground for Modernist Architects
In the post-war era, architects like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, Donald Wexler, and William Krisel found themselves drawn to Palm Springs. With vast open spaces, a stunning mountain backdrop, and year-round sunshine, the desert provided the ultimate blank canvas for experimentation. Here, modernist principles—clean lines, open floor plans, and seamless indoor-outdoor living—weren’t just an aesthetic choice; they were a practical response to the landscape.
Hollywood’s Desert Escape
By the 1950s and ‘60s, Palm Springs had become the ultimate getaway for Hollywood’s elite. Stars like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley flocked to the desert, commissioning architects to design sleek, stylish retreats where they could relax in privacy. The result? A city filled with celebrity homes, stylish hotels, and luxurious country clubs, all showcasing the best of mid-century modern design.
A Commitment to Preservation
Modernism Week isn’t just about celebrating Palm Springs’ architectural heritage—it’s about protecting it. Many of these mid-century gems fell into disrepair over the decades, but thanks to the efforts of preservation groups, passionate homeowners, and organizations like the Palm Springs Modern Committee, these architectural treasures are being restored and reimagined for future generations.
A Living Legacy
Today, Palm Springs is more than just a place to admire mid-century modernism—it’s a place to experience it. Whether you’re strolling through neighborhoods lined with butterfly-roof homes, staying in a restored 1950s hotel, or sipping a martini by a kidney-shaped pool, you’re stepping into a world where modernist design is alive and thriving.
That’s why Palm Springs remains the heart and soul of Modernism Week—a city where the past and present blend effortlessly, proving that great design never goes out of style.
The Broader Impact
Modernism Week has evolved from a regional celebration into a global cultural force that’s actively shaping how we think about design, preservation, and the built environment. What began as a tribute to Palm Springs’ unparalleled architectural legacy has grown into a movement that fuels scholarship, tourism, civic pride, and the broader reappraisal of mid-century modernism’s place in design history. Its influence is visible far beyond the Coachella Valley, sparking renewed interest in mid-century aesthetics from Los Angeles to London, Tokyo to Tucson.
Architects, designers, and developers increasingly cite mid-century principles—clarity of form, honest materials, efficient use of space, and indoor-outdoor harmony—as foundational to contemporary projects. Sustainability conversations, once centered on futuristic tech, now regularly loop back to ideas pioneered in the 1940s through 1960s: passive solar design, minimal site disturbance, and adaptive reuse. Through lectures, workshops, and real-world examples, Modernism Week highlights how the philosophies of past visionaries like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and A. Quincy Jones are not only relevant today—they’re essential.
Economically, the event has become a major driver of tourism and preservation funding in Palm Springs. Historic neighborhoods like Sunmor, Deepwell, and Canyon View Estates have seen revitalization efforts thanks to the increased attention and advocacy inspired by Modernism Week. Local organizations and preservationists have been able to protect vulnerable properties and promote sensitive restoration over demolition, ensuring that this unique architectural heritage continues to thrive for future generations.
In essence, Modernism Week reinforces why design matters. It’s a call to preserve the past not as a static museum piece, but as a living, evolving influence on how we build, live, and connect with our environments today.
How to Get Involved
Modernism Week may feel like an insider’s affair, but it’s open to anyone with curiosity and a passion for design. Planning ahead is key—many of the most anticipated events, especially exclusive home tours and limited-seating lectures, sell out months in advance. The full event schedule is typically released in the fall, with tickets becoming available shortly thereafter.
Whether you’re an architect looking to deepen your knowledge, a collector searching for original Eames pieces, or a casual admirer with a soft spot for breeze blocks and butterfly roofs, there’s something here for you. Volunteer opportunities, sponsorships, and donor programs are also available for those looking to support the preservation and educational mission of the event in a more active way.
To explore programming, sign up for announcements, or purchase tickets, visit modernismweek.com. From your first neighborhood tour to your tenth rooftop cocktail party, Modernism Week is a gateway into a world where history, innovation, and style collide.
Typos? Not on our watch. This article has been fact-checked and finessed by the eagle-eyed editors at For The Writers. Have more to contribute or see something worth calling out? Let us know.
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