The newest residents of Palm Springs, who tend to be younger nowadays, have acquired an appreciation for mid-century modern architecture which is part of the sophistication and historic significance of Palm Springs.
This tradition of architecture grew out of the aesthetics of the world-renowned German Bauhaus and is reflected in the work of Albert Frey (who designed the Palm Springs city hall, tram station, Movie Colony Hoteland airport), Donald Wexler, Richard Neutra, and other world-famous architects.
A home developer, Alexander Homes, popularized this post-and-beam architectural style in the Coachella Valley.
Alexander houses and similar homes are much sought after and feature low pitched roofs, wide eaves, open-beamed ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows to create an indoor/outdoor ambiance most suitable for private, pool-side living in a desert climate.
One exponent of today's revival of the mid-century style and associated styles in furniture and textiles is Christopher "Red" Ercoli, whose own postmodern architectural style has become a staple in many downtown buildings.
Restoration projects are now being undertaken all over the city to return these homes and businesses to their original condition.
Students of mid-century architecture and design come to the city to study its heritage in this unusual style of the decorative arts. |
