Celebrating Modernism Week: Discover the Best in Desert Modern and Mid-Century Homes with The Paul Kaplan Group
Every winter, design lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and curious explorers descend on the Coachella Valley for Modernism Week — a vibrant celebration of form, function, and forward-thinking design that highlights the region’s world-renowned legacy in Desert Modernism and mid-century architecture. From iconic show homes to hidden architectural gems, this week is a tribute to clean lines, indoor-outdoor harmony, and the timeless spirit of California modern living.
And for those inspired to make this aesthetic their everyday reality, The Paul Kaplan Group is your local expert guide. With deep roots in mid-century preservation and a passion for thoughtfully curated listings, Paul and his team showcase some of the most captivating Desert Modern and mid-century homes currently on the market — each reflecting the artistry, innovation, and lifestyle that define this architectural movement.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector of modern design, a first-time buyer longing for a home infused with character, or simply curious about bringing iconic mid-century style into your life, explore how The Paul Kaplan Group can connect you to the very best that Modernism Week and the Coachella Valley have to offer.
$875,000Discover this fabulous 3 bedroom and 3 bath condo located at the iconic Twin Springs, a quaint community of 40 units designed by prominent architect Donald Wexler, A.I.A., located in South Palm Springs. This unit is the largest floor plan, measuring 2100 sq ft, and has a 1300+ sq ft meticulously landscaped private west facing yards. Step inside to discover the perfect layout, a huge living room at the center of the unit, adjoined by a generously sized dining room. The kitchen, with its Viking appliances, is perfect for the chef in you. The luxury doesn't end there as there are private ensuite bedrooms on opposite sides of the unit, each with a bathtub and shower, and walk-in closets. The well proportioned 3rd bedroom, currently used as an office, also offers large closets and can be used in many ways. The crown jewel of a yard is impeccably designed to take advantage of the glorious mountain vistas while lounging, dining, or entertaining. The list of upgrades is long, and this is a must-see, must experience property. Twin Springs is a meticulously maintained, five-acre gated community offering resort-style amenities in a tranquil setting highlighted by flowing streams and multiple fountains. Residents enjoy two large pools and spas, a clubhouse with pool and ping-pong tables, sauna, and fitness area, along with two tennis and pickleball courts. Assigned covered parking and a private storage unit add everyday convenience to this serene desert retreat. This iconic community was featured on the 2025 Modernism Week Home Tour.Listed by Alex Dethier BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
An authentic Mid-Century home invites you to embrace the lifestyle that only Palm Springs can offer. Set in the famous Indian Canyons neighborhood, this remodeled 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence sits on an oversized lot where you own the land and pay no HOA fees. Framed by breathtaking, unobstructed views of the San Jacinto Mountains, the backdrop feels straight out of a postcard. Designed for effortless desert living, the home blends iconic Mid-Century architecture with tasteful modern updates. The open-concept living and kitchen area is ideal for entertaining, where seamless indoor-outdoor living takes center stage. The newly remodeled chef's kitchen, featuring custom teak cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a central island are perfect for morning coffee or sunset cocktails. Sleek flooring flows throughout, creating a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic. Now with two primary suites that offers bright, inviting retreats, each with walk-in closets and direct access to the private yard. The vibrant renovated custom bathrooms make a statement with accent tiles, quartz vanities and backlit mirrors. Energy-efficient upgrades include paid solar panels, Fleetwood sliders, dual-pane windows, custom shades throughout, a Trane A/C , tankless water heater, and a new separate A/C system in the primary bedroom keeping comfort high and utility costs low. Step outside and let the sunshine bathe you in warmth as the sparkling pool and spa beckon. The private, serene yard is a true oasis, complete with fruit trees, multiple lounging areas, and the perfect setting for evening stargazing. Located in desirable South Palm Springs, away from the windy zone and in an active area, close distance to shops, dining, and hiking trails. This is the home you have been dreaming of.Listed by Keith Ference Nest Seekers; Assisted by Jeni Campa of the Paul Kaplan Goup
Rare opportunity to own your own piece of history. This meticulously restored 1958 iconic architectural home, designed by William Krisel, offers the perfect blend of Mid Century history coupled with modern elegance. The large open great room features a grand classic fireplace. The vibrant gourmet kitchen offers high end chef's appliances as well as large peninsula seating and a stylish work nook, all open and flowing to the dining area. This home is filled with natural light through the large windows all around. Additionally, there are two large primary suites, both en suite with full baths. The powder room off the great room is a wonderful addition for parties and get togethers. Hang out on the gorgeous patio outdoor living area, surrounded by lush landscape and citrus trees, ideal for evening outdoor dining. The front yard is privately secluded with its own hedge, landscaped with plush astro turf, perfectly inviting for hanging out with family, friends and pets. A two car garage included to house pool toys, bikes, and your dream sports car. Tamarisk Ranchos 1958 by William Krisel is a resort-style community featuring 16 homes around the central pool area, with illustrious views of the San Jacinto mountains. This architectural historical home has been prominently featured on the Palm Springs Modernism Tour, and also carries it's own historical designation, allowing the owner to benefit from the Mills Act. Nestled in Rancho Mirage, the Playground of the Presidents, on Fee land (you own the land), within close proximity to world class shopping, dining, golf, hiking and cultureListed by Stephanie Howard BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
$639,000Fresh artistic take on a classic Mid Century gem. Palmer and Krisel, 1963, Canyon View Estates. This is the coveted jewell location of South Palm Springs, a community dedicated to the restoration and preservation of a long gone low density MCM lifestyle. With modern mechanical upgrades in place, this unit is ready for its next act, the tough stuff is done, newer HVAC/replaced sewer line and more. Expanded walled & gated view terrace that overlooks the peaceful greenbelt with mountain views....perfect for pets and entertaining! Polished concrete flooring and strategic mirror placement add to the Boho vibe of this well cared for light & bright end unit. Clean lines with many original architectural aspects intact. Wide open views, great location in the community nestled near the mountains and protected from most seasonal winds on a quiet, iconic street of neighboring restored properties.Listed by Mike Johnson Gary Johns BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Step into this fully renovated midcentury gem nestled in the heart of Palm Springs' coveted Sunmor neighborhood. Located on a quiet street believed to be partly developed by Julian Sifflegendary owner of the Chi Chi Lounge and the Starlite Roomthis architectural treasure features one of only two homes on the block with a striking folded-plate roofline. With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home seamlessly blends classic midcentury style with modern updates. The expansive open-concept living room is anchored by a stunning stone fireplace and flows effortlessly into the backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling blue pool and sweeping mountain views. Culinary enthusiasts will fall in love with the reimagined kitchen, featuring sleek quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a rare indoor gas grillperfect for entertaining year-round. The spacious primary suite is your private retreat, offering a large walk-in shower with an outdoor shower and a generous walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms provide flexible space for guests, a home office, media room, or creative studio. A newly epoxied two-car garage adds a polished touch and offers plenty of room for your prized vehicle. The oversized, professionally landscaped yard invites you to relax, entertain, or simply take in the breathtaking desert vistas. Don't miss the opportunity to own this iconic piece of Palm Springs history. Contact the agent today for more information or to schedule your private tour.Listed by Alex Dethier BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Here is the desert modern home you've been looking for! With a fully permitted, detached ADU/casita. This charming home was originally built in 1956, with great MCM design and style, yet updated and upgraded for the way you live today without losing any of its mid-mod lustre.Ideally located in the Magnesia Falls Cove neighborhood of Rancho Mirage, just minutes from shops and restaurants and a short drive to both downtown Palm Springs and El Paseo shopping district in Palm Desert. The main home has a guest bedroom on one side of the home and graciously sized primary bedroom with large walk-in closet on the other side. The large living and dining space can be configured in myriad ways. And the open plan kitchen is great for the host who loves to entertain while cooking or cocktailing. The detached casita in back is a fully permitted addition, self-contained with its own kitchenette, bathroom and laundry. Both the main house and the casita open up to the spectacular pool and spa! Lounge in the pool, soak in the hot tub. Enjoy the desert the way it's meant to be enjoyed. Live the lifestyle you've been dreaming of.Listed by Greg and Kiki Tormo BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Step into classic Palm Springs style at this Donald Wexler designed mid-century condo in Sagewood, a beautifully spread-out community of just 108 homes across nearly 19 acres. This spacious end unit delivers extra privacy, wide open living space, and jaw-dropping, straight-on west-facing mountain views that never get old. Inside, you'll find three bedrooms (one currently used as a den), two baths, a large open living room / dining room and a well appointed kitchen for the chef in you. This property is offered turnkey furnished. Outside your door, Sagewood's lush greenbelts, desert landscaping, and colorful gardens feel more like a private resort than a condo complex. Spend your days floating in one of three pools, playing tennis or pickleball, and hosting sunset cocktails against the dramatic mountain backdrop. HVAC and water heater were replaced in 2023. HOA fees include water, sewer, cable and high-speed internet. Contact agent for private showing. Per seller, Listed by Alex Dethier BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Discover 271 N Easmor Circle, located in the iconic Sunmor Estates of Palm Springs. Built in 1958 by the celebrated Alexander Construction Company, this classic mid-century modern residence showcases the clean lines, open planning, and indoor-outdoor connection that define Palm Springs' architectural legacy. Signature features include post-and-beam construction, tongue and groove ceilings, and expansive walls of glass that flood the interiors with natural light while framing the west-facing outdoor living spaces. The three-bedroom, two-bath layout centers around a spacious living room with a gas fireplace, flowing effortlessly into an adjoining denboth sharing a dramatic glass wall that opens to the pool and yard beyond. The renovated open kitchen, with its Smeg and Zline appliances, respects the home's modernist roots while offering updated functionality for today's lifestyle making it ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Outside, the oversized 11,000+ sq ft lot delivers the quintessential desert experience, with a private pool, outdoor shower, built-in shade structure, modern fire pit, and BBQ area designed for relaxed outdoor living and sunset gatherings. Set at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, the property enjoys exceptional privacy while remaining moments from downtown Palm Springs. A true example of timeless mid-century design, thoughtfully maintained and ready to enjoy. Private showings by appointment.Listed by Alex Dethier BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Located in the prestigious Indian Canyons neighborhood of Palm Springs, this re-imagined 1965 mid-century residence blends timeless architecture with thoughtful, design-forward updates. The home was substantially redecorated in 2019 by Palm Springs firm Anthony Cochran Design with restraint and discernment, avoiding many all-too-familiar clichs. A design work that pairs East Coast and European sophistication with a breezy California sensibility and a desert-inspired color palette. The home's street presence was dramatically enhanced with the addition of brick facing over the original stucco and a heightened perimeter wall, increasing both visual impact and privacy.Behind the gates, a west-facing, front-loaded pool anchors the expansive front courtyardan iconic mid-century welcome that immediately sets the tone. The grounds were extensively redesigned and professionally landscaped in 2019, resulting in a mature, sculptural cactus garden in the rear and a well-balanced combination of boulders and plants in the front yard that perfectly complements the desert setting.Inside, 2,675 square feet of living space offers four bedrooms (2 bedrooms currently set up as a den and an office) and three bathrooms in a well-balanced, open layout. A prior remodel introduced custom walnut cabinetry, quartz countertops, and a curated use of Heath tile, while floor-to-ceiling glass, sliding doors, and a dramatic rock fireplace create seamless indoor-outdoor living throughout. The primary suite enjoys serene eastern mountain and cactus garden views and features a spacious bathroom with soaking tub, large shower, dual vanities, and a generous walk-in closet.Beyond aesthetics, the home has been comprehensively updated with major system improvements, including interior copper plumbing, a sewer line lateral connection, an upgraded electrical panel, dual-pane windows and sliders, a whole-house water filtration system, a fully owned solar system with Tesla battery, and a newer water heaterensuring modern comfort and peace of mind.This is a refined mid-century home where architectural integrity, designer vision, and infrastructure upgrades come together in one of South Palm Springs' most coveted neighborhoods.Listed by Alex Dethier BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
The Desert Star, Howard Lapham, 1956. A rare offering in this very special and architecturally significant condominium complex. A designated class 1 Historic Site, unit #4 benefits from Mills Act tax credits. 572 square feet of efficiency provides living, dining, kitchen and bath in finely detailed architecture. The well equipped kitchen includes high end appliances and plentifull storage. The generously sized bath has a walk-in shower and multi-purpose spa style shower settings. The sleeping chamber is separated, when desired, from the living area, by an original folding screen; creating privacy when needed. Custom window treatments, a mini-split heating and air-conditioning provides year-round comfort. The large private patio affords out door space adjacent to the unit giving the unit an indoor-outdoor flow. Fruit trees, mature plantings, BBQ/fire pit plus stylish seating areas contribute to the lifestyle enhancements.Listed by Mike Johnson & Gary Johns - BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Discover this wonderful 4 bedroom and 2 bath home in the Movie Colony East neighborhood located in central Palm Springs. Gated like a mini compound and offered turnkey furnished, this home is ready for you to start enjoying Palm Springs like a movie star. Step through the front door to discover a large open floor plan centered around a fabulous fireplace, perfect for those cold winter evenings. The large kitchen is perfect for entertaining and overlooks the pool, patio, and opens to the generously sized dining area. Step into your private primary ensuite and enjoy the privacy from the other guest bedrooms. This home can be configured to accommodate your lifestyle; Although it is currently set up as a 3 bedroom plus den, but could be set up as a 4 bedroom home, or even a 2 ensuite bedrooms, an office, and a den home. Step outside to enjoy the magnificent pool and spa or go under the large patio cover for a large family and friends festive lunch. This home has it all! So, don't be shy and call agent for a private showing!Listed by Alex Dethier BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
LOCATION. LOCATION. LOCATION! Mere steps to shops and restaurants! This is a prime location in downtown Palm Springs! Highly updated and upgraded, with 2 en-suite bedrooms, generous living space and large private patio. Polished concrete floors are sleek and modern. And a built-in sound system lets you set the mood at any time.Enjoy mountain views from your living room, bedroom and patio. The bedrooms are separated for privacy, with the front bedroom configured with a work-from-home office nook if you need it. Closets have custom built-ins for maximum storage and efficiency. Recessed lighting throughout home, and full-size stacked laundry is in the kitchen.The kitchen is open to the living room - perfect for entertaining - and the layout flows gracefully to the spacious patio.Villa Alejo is classic Mid-Century Modern architecture with distinctive breeze block and great curb appeal! The HOA covers ALL of your electricity usage including A/C and heat, water, sewer, trash, secure underground garage parking, separate storage unit, all grounds maintenance and on-site gym/fitness center. This condo is a great desert retreat, investment property, or a full-time residence. Furniture and furnishings are available! Come see it today!Listed by Greg and Kiki Tormo BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Add a splash of color to your life with this charming 2 bedroom and 2 bath fully turnkey furnished condo in the highly desirable Canyon View Estates community. Upon entering, you'll find a bright and airy open-concept living area, featuring a spacious combined dining and living room, all bathed in natural light. The inviting kitchen is perfect for culinary exploration, offering a thoughtful layout with ample storage space. Step outside onto the large private patio, ideal for relaxing, outdoor dining, or grilling, all while enjoying stunning views and complete privacy. After a long day, retreat to the generous primary bedroom, which provides both comfort and space, along with a beautifully updated, spa-like ensuite bath. Guests will appreciate their own private quarters, which also feature an updated bathroom. This unit is part of Phase One of the development, consisting of 28 homes, designed by the renowned architects Dan Palmer and William Krisel in the early 1960s. The community offers beautiful grounds, a pool and spa, and breathtaking mountain views, all with an atmosphere of peaceful tranquility. Contact agent today to schedule a private showing or for more information.Listed by Alex Dethier BD Homes-The Paul Kaplan Group
Modernism Week’s signature February festival will take place February 12 - 22, 2026, highlighting midcentury modern architecture, art, interior design, landscape design, and vintage culture in the Palm Springs area of Southern California. The annual 11-day festival will feature more than 500 tours, programs and events. And we're ready to show off our town here at The Paul Kaplan Group. This is your yearly chance to immerse yourself in the history, architecture, fashion, and culture of this iconic era, with so many events covering everything from home tours and vintage car shows to film screenings and educational talks.
The history of Modernism Week stretches back decades, born from a desire to preserve and celebrate the unique architectural heritage of Palm Springs. This desert city was a magnet for renowned mid-century modern architects like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and William Krisel, who left their indelible mark on the landscape with their innovative and stylish designs. Today, Modernism Week is a global phenomenon, attracting design enthusiasts and architecture aficionados from around the world.
.png)
Highlights to Get Your Groove On:
- Home Tours: Experience the pinnacle of mid-century living with exclusive tours of privately owned architectural gems. Peek inside iconic houses, marvel at the innovative design features, and imagine yourself living like a true Mad Men character. 
- Films and Lectures: Join historians and experts revealing the stories behind the art and architecture of modernism through live talks, presentations, and movies.
- Architectural Double Decker Bus Tour: Modernism Week's Most Popular AttractionExperience the Palm Springs' architectural masterpieces firsthand as presented by expert guides that provide insights into their history, development, and masters behind their designs. Architectural bus tours are one of Modernism Week's most popular and celebrated annual attractions attended by thousands of visitors from around the world from all walks of life and levels of expertise.
- Entertaining Music, Classic Cocktails, and Exclusive PartiesHave dinner and drinks at the Sinatra estate, mix and mingle with architects and designers, or if you're looking for the hot-ticket item, attend the Modernism Week 20th Anniversary Opening Night Extravaganza and see Sinatra,The Beatles and Elvis all in one night!
- Unique Experiences For Every Taste Try something new or find a favorite activity at Modernism Week. See an art show and print release party hosted by Shag, attend a fashion show by Trina Turk, try your hand at pasta making with cooking and lunch at Trio Palm Springs, or head over to the the "King of Cool" Soiree at the Steve McQueen Residence or check out the Modernism Week Trailer Show- always a favorite event. The immensely popular Palm Springs Modernism Show offers collections from 125 international dealers that have something for everyone. Shake things up and take a hands-on mixology class where you'll learn how to make a few cocktails you can serve up to friends and family.
- More Than Just a Look Back:
So, whether you're a die-hard mid-century enthusiast or simply curious about a bygone era, Modernism Week has something for you. Come explore the vibrant desert landscape, soak in the unique atmosphere, and step into a world where form meets function and style knows no bounds. See you there!
For more information visit www.ModernismWeek.com
.png)
House hunting for your own piece of Modernist history? Drop us a line at PaulKaplanHomes.com
*Some photos featured are courtesy of Modernism Week
Selling Your Home?
Get your home's value - our custom reports include accurate and up to date information.
