Las Vegas
Seldom Seen Homes on Tour at Modernism Week 2025
By Ken MacIntyre
November 20, 2024 (Palm Springs) – Celebrating 20 years in Palm Springs, Modernism Week 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event offering an unprecedented look inside some of the area’s most iconic and rarely seen homes. In three short months, from February 13 – 23, several legendary properties seldom (if ever) seen during Modernism Week will open their doors to the public, allowing visitors to step into history and experience the unique architecture and glamorous legacies that defined Palm Springs’ midcentury modern era.
The ‘tennis units’ at CoCo Cabana in Araby Cove
Among the standouts coming this February is a former resort hotel that’s been hiding in plain sight for decades; CoCo Cabana, a vibrant homage to Palm Springs’ resort culture. Built in 1955, and designed by Coachella Valley architect Charles W. Doty, the CoCo is a unique example of midcentury garden apartment design that boasts architectural integrity as well as spectacular views of the local mountains. Eight former 1, 2 and 3 bedroom hotel apartments – converted to condos in the late ‘70s – will be on view to showcase the desert leisure lifestyle. CoCo Cabana’s tropical aesthetic paired with modernist principles makes it a must-see addition to this year’s Modernism Week lineup. (February 17, $65)
The Steve McQueen House is a quintessential example of desert modernism and minimalist elegance that perfectly embodied the style and charisma of its original owner, the “King of Cool.” Tucked away in Southridge, this 1964 Hugh Kaptur-designed home has long been hidden from public view, adding to its mystique. For the first time, visitors will have the chance to mingle during the PS ModCom King of Cool Soiree to see how McQueen lived. Guests will be mesmerized by a treasure trove of unique McQueen-era artifacts as they sip cocktails poolside and dance under the desert stars. (February 15, $275) SOLD OUT
King of Cool; the Steve McQueen House, in Southridge
Equally impressive (if not more-so!) is the Kaufmann Residence, making its sophomore appearance at Modernism Week. Often regarded as one of the most important pieces of mid-century architecture in the world, this masterpiece – designed by Richard Neutra in 1946 – has been meticulously restored. The Garden Tour offered is an extraordinary opportunity to experience this timeless architecture and landscape design firsthand. Guests will be able to view inside the iconic home through open glass sliding doors, which seamlessly integrate into the surrounding landscape, offering unparalleled views of the San Jacinto mountains. (February 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, $75) SOLD OUT
The Howard Hughes House is yet another rare gem that first debuted during last year’s Modernism Week. This secluded property, where the legendary aviation tycoon and film producer once sought refuge from the public eye, has a uniquely modernist design with a touch of mystery. The house has been preserved to maintain the original 1950s elements, and while it may seem modest from street side, inside it beams with clean lines, warm woods, sleek finishes and floor-to-ceiling windows which immerses guests in the surrounding desert landscape while still providing privacy and seclusion. (February 17, $50 tour and $125 Reception)
William Krisel’s model home, on tour for the first time during the Little Beverly Hills neighborhood tour
Little Beverly Hills is a pocket midcentury neighborhood developed by the Alexander Construction Company in 1957-1958, under its original moniker “Enchanted Village.” Although not its first time on Modernism Week, five of the six homes featured are making their Modernism Weeks debuts, including one designed by Steve Chase, a protégé of Arthur Elrod, and a second home designed by William Krisel that served as the furnished model for the development. The Shag House, which debuted last year, is also returning as part of the Little Beverly Hills neighborhood tour. (February 15, $90)
Finally, Canyon Springs, a community that embodies the ethos of desert modernism with its sleek design and seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. Completed in 1979 by developer Richard McCarthy and renowned architect Laszlo E. Sandor, Canyon Springs features eighteen duplexes sharing a common wall and one free-standing structure, seven of which will be on tour. As a first-time offering during Modernism Week, Canyon Springs exudes the timeless elegance and innovative design that defines Palm Springs’ living. (February 21, $75)
Modernism Week 2025 will offer a rare opportunity to peek inside more than just these iconic properties. For a full schedule of events please visit ModernismWeek.com
Endless mountain views at the Canyon Springs community