Palm Springs Modern: Houses in the California Desert

by Adele Cygelman, Joseph Rosa (Introduction), David Glomb (Photographer)

This classic volume, now available at a lower price, showcases jet-set homes designed by the likes of Neutra, Frey, Lautner, and others. Palm Springs is famous as a mecca for the international jet set. But the city has also attracted its share of eccentrics and mavericks who have left an architectural legacy that remains unsurpassed for its originality and international influence. This book examines the impact that architects and designers have had on the desert oasis, primarily from the 1940s to the 1960s. Palm Springs Modern features examples of midcentury modernism at its most glamorous, some of them the residences of prominent figures who commissioned weekend getaways in the desert, including Frank Sinatra, Walter Annenberg, and Raymond Loewy. Adéle Cygelman’s insightful text, a foreword by architectural historian Joseph Rosa, contemporary color photography by David Glomb, and the celebrated archival black-and-white work of Julius Shulman all capture the distinctly modern allure of America’s famed desert playground.

Genres: Architecture

192 pages, Hardcover

First published September 18, 1999

Reviews

[Izzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

really interesting read about what is essentially the capital of mid-century modern architecture. formed some essential reading while planning my USA road trip and has made me even more excited to see some of the buildings with my own eyes

it was great to learn more about some of the most beautiful architecture in the world (in my opinion anyway), and the photography throughout is genuinely stunning. Can’t wait to visit Palm Springs myself and see it all first hand !!!

[Jeremy S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stunning photographs of spectacular homes in the epicenter for mid century modern architecture. While modernism is very en vogue at the moment, it wasn't really embraced during the initial movement. Palm Springs was one of the few areas where people truly lived it and it comes through when you're out there. I always like to revisit this before before I leave for a desert vacation!

[Laurie]

UCD Library book Bill picked up before we went to Morongo Valley. It has a short informative history of Modern architecture (and the architects) in Palm Springs.
We came across the Edris house when we were driving around Palm Springs. There is a good view of it from the street. Also had a glimpse of the Loewy house in the same neighborhood.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just spent a week in Palm Springs and fell in love with the vibe. This book captures the feel of the architectural legacy left by some pretty kick-ass architects from the 1940s-1960s. Beautiful photos.