Modernism Week: A Weeklong Celebration of Design, Architecture, and Innovation
Modernism Week is made up of events, tours and workshops all over the Coachella Valley (Palm Springs & beyond). It’s a celebration of design, innovation, and midcentury glamour. Nestled against the backdrop of the arid desert landscape, this annual event unfolds as a vibrant tapestry, weaving together the rich history of midcentury modern architecture, the allure of Hollywood's golden era, and the timeless elegance of Palm Springs.
Info
Check the Modernism Week website for dates
Some events are free, but for many of the more popular events you’ll need to purchase tickets on the site
Palm Springs, with its iconic palm-lined streets and breathtaking mountain views, serves as the perfect canvas for Modernism Week. The city's architectural gems, characterized by sleek lines and innovative designs, come alive during this celebration. From the iconic Kaufmann House to the futuristic House of Tomorrow, each structure tells a story of midcentury modernism that continues to captivate enthusiasts and design aficionados.
The House of Tomorrow facade 2023
The House of Tomorrow front door 2023
The Hollywood Connection
In the 1950s, Palm Springs became the playground for Hollywood's elite, and Modernism Week pays homage to this glamorous era. Explore the homes that once hosted legendary stars like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley. Sinatra's Twin Palms Estate opens its doors, allowing visitors to step back in time and relive the Rat Pack era, where every party was a spectacle and every corner echoed with the tunes of the iconic crooner.
Architectural Marvels on Display
Modernism Week is a feast for architecture enthusiasts, showcasing historic homes and also the evolution of design through curated tours and exhibitions. Wander through neighborhoods where Desert Modernism has left an indelible mark, witness the restoration of forgotten gems, and gain insights into the innovative minds behind midcentury masterpieces.
Neighborhood: Little Beverly Hills
Psychedelic Springs in Little Beverly Hills 2023
Owner of Psychedelic Springs in Little Beverly Hills 2022
Psychedelic Springs in Little Beverly Hills 2022
Neighborhood: Canyon View Estates
This neighborhood was featured in the film “Don’t Worry Darling" with of it’s gorgeous mid-century single-story tract houses.
Neighborhood: Vista Las Palmas
The House of Tomorrow backyard 2023
Neighborhood: Ocotillo Lodge
The Ocotillo Lodge was conceived in 1956 through a collaboration between the Alexander Co. and architects William Krisel and Dan Saxon Palmer. It still stands as a mid-century masterpiece in Southern California. With 124 rooms and private bungalows, the lodge features classic mid-century architectural elements including concrete block walls, beamed ceilings, and walls of glass. Situated on seven acres of prime Twin Palms real estate in Palm Springs, the property was originally designed to attract Hollywood celebrities and continues to enchant guests with its stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains and unique keyhole-shaped swimming pool.
The property has become an enclave for all types of creatives who have created their own unique experiences inside each bungalow.
Educational Seminars and Workshops
For those eager to delve deeper into the world of modernism, Modernism Week offers a variety of educational seminars and workshops. Engage with architects, designers, and historians as they share their expertise on topics ranging from preservation efforts to the influence of midcentury design on contemporary aesthetics. It's a unique opportunity to expand your knowledge and connect with like-minded individuals.
Poolside Soirees and Socializing
Palm Springs is synonymous with the poolside lifestyle, and Modernism Week embraces this tradition with a series of glamorous poolside soirees and social events. Mingle with fellow enthusiasts, share stories, and celebrate the spirit of an era where leisure and sophistication converged beneath the sunlit desert skies.
2024 Trina Turk Fashion Show at Frank Sinatra’s Estate
2024 Trina Turk Fashion Show at Frank Sinatra’s Estate
Modernism Week invites you to immerse yourself in the elegance and innovation that define this iconic desert oasis. Join us as we uncover the magic of Palm Springs through the lens of modernism, where each structure tells a story, and every moment echoes with the allure of a bygone era.
