What to See and Do During Modernism Week in Palm Springs

Nestled in the desert two hours east of Los Angeles, Palm Springs used to be the haunt of Hollywood stars seeking sun and seclusion. Now this desert oasis is an epicenter for midcentury modern architecture and design, and the home of Modernism Week. Founded nine years ago, Modernism Week attracts fans of midcentury design from around the world for 11 days each February. The 2014 edition runs February 13 to 23.

With so many things to do in Palm Springs during Modernism Week, how does one choose?

Well, sometimes you can’t choose, because a few events sell out immediately. But there are still some gems out there waiting to be mined. As a Palm Springs resident, Modernism Week participant (double-decker bus tour guide), and devotee of all things PS, I have found several events that capture the spirit of my fair city. Some are classic must-sees, while others are new to the Mod Week lineup and will surely become mainstays.

“Modern With a Twist.” The Palm Springs Center for Creativity has partnered with Salon for the Parched to present five rollicking and thought-provoking presentations that put a twist on what it means to be modern. The event takes place February 20 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Attendance is free, but seating is limited, so grab a beverage and be sure to RSVP.


Frey House II. This iconic architectural bijou nestled among the boulders high above Palm Springs is rarely open to visitors. It’s a must-see if you are visiting Palm Springs during Modernism Week. For Frey II tours, click here. These tickets are hot. There is also a lecture about architect Albert Frey on February 19 from 2 to 3 p.m.


Hugh Kaptur exhibition. As one of the youngest of the Palm Springs midcentury modern architects, Hugh Kaptur was known not only for his celebrity homes (William Holden’s and Steve McQueen’s, to name two), but also for neighborhood fire stations, country clubs and hotels. This exhibition is free.


Uptown brunch and art walk. Sixteen businesses are participating in this art walk benefiting the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center. Explore the upper reaches of Palm Canyon. Look for the red balloons outside participating businesses on February 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.


“Mod Eats.” A food first for Modernism Week, hosted by yours truly. Come experience this hands-on cooking demonstration in Iron Chef Jose Garces’ test kitchen. Learn how to create an authentic midcentury cocktail party.


“Lost, Saved & Endangered.” This compelling presentation by Gary Johns is a must for any preservationist. He chronicles the losses, the successes and the ongoing process of saving the historical architectural fabric of Palm Springs. The lecture is free, but reservations are required.


Top-secret show house! This is the first designer show house ever for Modernism Week. The unveiling has been kept under wraps, and photographs are not allowed until the big reveal during Mod Week. But the roster of designers is promising, with high-profile names like Thomas Lavin, Celerie Kemble and Jaime Rummerfield decorating rooms in this architecturally significant John Caranci home. Tickets are still available.


“Jet Set Style” fashion show. A highly stylized runway fashion show, Jet Set Style features outstanding examples of midcentury resort and evening wear.


Hotel Lautner. Nestled into the desert floor just outside of Palm Springs, this 1947 hotel by Frank Lloyd Wright protégé John Lautner has recently been restored and has reopened for business. It is available for tours during Mod Week.




A view of the intimate pool at Hotel Lautner.

Get more info about the hotel

More: Why We Love Midcentury Modern Design

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