Palm Springs is home to one of the largest concentrations of Mid Century Modern architecture in the United States thanks to visionary early architects like Wexler, Frey, and Alexander. Starting as early as the 1920s these architects, plus many others, used the unique geography of Palm Springs as their inspiration to build homes with clean lines, indoor/outdoor space, and plenty of glass. Each year in February the city of Palm Springs welcomes thousands of Modernists (those who celebrate and foster the preservation of Mid Century Modern architecture) for ten days of lectures, events, tours, and of course, parties. If you have never attended Modernism Week and don’t quite know what to expect, keep reading!
The Tours
To fully experience the beautiful architecture around the Palm Springs area, I suggest booking one of the tours on open-air double-decker buses like the Premier Double Decker Bus Tour which takes you on a 2.5-hour tour of notable buildings around Palm Springs or The Illuminated Sunset Tour. If you prefer to have a more intimate experience and take your time at each stop, be sure to join the Palm Springs Style “Door Tour” bike ride through the Indian Canyons neighborhood.
The Parties
Between the Opening Night Party, The Party at Frank Sinatra’s House, and the Affair at the Koerner House you can also have Martinis on the Mountain, experience Disney’s magic at Smoke Tree Ranch, and toast the second anniversary of the Arrive Hotel. Be sure to grab tickets early as events do sell out!
Free Events
If you are looking to experience some of Modernism Week without breaking the bank, there are plenty of free events each day including Architectural Bike Rides, a tour of the West Elm House, and the Arrive 2nd Anniversary Party.
For more information on Modernism Week and Modernism Fall Preview, please check out their website: modernismweek.com
Written by Nicole Bowen of The Darling Niki
Photo in header of post from Dre Naylor for The Darling Niki