Started in 2006 to parallel an annual design expo exploring mid-century architecture and design, Modernism Week in Palm Springs has grown into a landmark bi-annual event that provides a unique glimpse into the postwar architectural glamour and innovation epitomized by the cinematic California city. Its eagerly anticipated poolside parties and talks by notable historians and preservationists draw vintage design and architecture enthusiasts from all fifty states and around the world. And while rare opportunities to party like the Rat Pack inside homes, including Frank Sinatra's legendary Twin Palms estate, are hot ticket items (the PS ModCom "King of Cool" soiree at the Steve McQueen Residence sold out in six minutes) many insiders consider the house tours as one of the most exciting reasons to attend.
Modernism Week Celebrates 20 Years
"Founded 20 years ago to honor midcentury and modern design and financially support local preservation organizations and historic neighborhoods, it has evolved into a globally recognized festival; in February it attracted over 130,000 visitors and generated more than $68 million for the local economy," shares Chairman William Kopelk via an official release. In celebration of its 20th anniversary, an impressive selection of tours, talks and experiences has been curated for 2025. 'As always, we're introducing new, exciting programs to be enjoyed for the first time while bringing back some of our most popular home tours from past years,' adds Modernism Week CEO Lisa Vossler Smith. 'We're especially grateful to the many homeowners who are generously participating by donating their homes for tours and can't wait to share them with our Modernism Week community.'
With over 400 experiences taking place across 11 days - from educational talks, book signings and the chance to shop vintage treasures, to the 20th Anniversary Opening Night Extravaganza at the Palm Springs Air Museum and special dinner theater shows by PS UNDERGROUND – these are some suggested highlights.
Notable and New
Desert Modernist architects, including Richard Neutra, William Krisel, and Albert Frey, helped establish Palm Springs as a world-recognized center for modern design – in fact, this year's keynote speaker is Dr. Raymond Neutra, the Austrian-American architect's youngest son – and for an informative dive into their now worldwide famous legacy, led by respected local guide Trevor O'Donnell, Ten Architects Who Made Palm Springs Modern (various dates, $130) takes an in-depth look at the works of these visionary Modernists and their midcentury heyday. New for 2025, Celebrating a Decade of Palm Springs Modern Living by James Schnepf: A Special Home Tour (February 18, $160) promises a rare opportunity to explore seven homes in five neighborhoods designed by legendary midcentury architects as captured in Schnepf's book, Palm Springs Modern Living.
The Parties
The spotlight doesn't just shine on Palm Springs during Modernism Week but other locations around the Coachella Valley, too, including The Lautner Compound in Desert Hot Springs. Sip cocktails and enjoy light nibbles with owners Tracy Beckmann and Ryan Trowbridge on a once-a-year tour of the four simple concrete, redwood, glass and steel units here designed by innovative architect Lautner (February 14, $100). For its one and only Retro Martini Party, The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation will present its annual shindig at the Butler Residence, aka the now Instagram-famous 'Pink Door House' in what was then the Canyon Country Club (today the Indian Canyons neighborhood). Dress in vintage attire for a photo in front of the Hollywood Regency-style home's famed front door, poolside or elsewhere across the manicured resort-style grounds – martini in hand of course.
The Home Tours
At the west end of Tahquitz Canyon, the long-time residence of Albert Frey, Frey House II, represents an innovative adaptation of classical modernist principles and celebrates nature at every turn. Another property whispered about in reverential tones, also rarely seen up close, is The Kaufman House by Richard Neutra famously immortalized in Slim Aarons' Poolside Gossip photogrph. Although the interior won't be open to the public (peeking through the open glass sliding doors is possible), a Garden Tour of the Kaufmann Residence (various dates, $75) provides an extraordinary opportunity to experience the iconic architecture and landscape design that made this residence a global landmark.
And originally designed by William Krisel and built in 1960 as a custom home for successful developer Robert Alexander and his wife Helene, the futuristic House of Tomorrow is where Elvis and Priscilla Presley famously honeymooned in 1967. Quintessential Palm Springs, it's considered a Modernism Week 'fan favorite,' the iconic residence was recently reimagined by local interior designer Michelle Boudreau but still features futuristic architectural elements including a pentagon-shaped pool and open spaces that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
The Neighborhood Tours
Architectural tours span more than 28 neighborhoods across Palm Springs, including some of its most historic districts, like The Movie Colony. Once a private refuge of Hollywood Royalty (Cary Grant, Gloria Tony Curtis, Marilyn Monroe) Stars of The Movie Colony: Romantic Palm Springs (February 13, $50) is a delicious nose around the posh Movie Colony Neighborhood, which originated in the 1930s with the luxe El Mirador Hotel as its center. Fans of architect William Krisel – or movie buffs who want to see the street where Jack and Alice lived in 'Don't Worry Darling' – should head to the Canyon View Estates neighborhood in South Palm Springs. Designed in 1962 as California's first vacation home community, the final phase (HOA7) is open for a special tour (February 15, $75)
And Don't Miss
Often referred to as 'Sunnylands,' the 200-acre Annenberg Estate in Rancho Mirage was built in the 1960s by philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg and has hosted numerous heads of state, U.S. presidents, and influential world figures. A fascinating historical site filled with art and political history, it's worth adding to the must-see list. House tour tickets go on sale on the 15th of each month, but during Modernism Week, opportunities are more plentiful. And to experience midcentury architectural treasures of Palm Springs with a retro pop culture humorist, then book seats on the Charles Phoenix Super Duper Double Decker Bus Tour (select dates, $160), who leads a well-narrated adventure around town. Modernism Week runs February 13-23; and a 'fall preview' week will run in October. modernismweek.com
