Modernism Week Home Tour Offers Fresh Design Ideas

PALM SPRINGS – Hundreds of people from around the country got a peek into some of the valley’s hidden gems; it’s mid-century architecture.

“Palm Springs was put on the map by modernism,” says Nat Gozzano, Racquet Club Estates Neighborhood Organization.

As part of Modernism Week seven homes throughout the Racquet Club Estates opened up to the public, so the homeowners could show off the vintage designs and details.

“It’s a box form, it’s what we like,” says Dana Benoit, homeowner.

The retro homes first drew people to the valley in the 1950’s and 60’s and their once again attracting a lot of attention. Jeannine and Frank Clark drove in from Pasadena to get a look.

“They’re all beautiful,” says Jeannine Clark.

“It’s a total departure from the rest of architecture,” says Frank Clark.

Although all the homes are very unique, they do have a few things in common. They all display clean, sleek line and simplicity. Each home is the epitome of modernism.

“It’s mid-century architecture that is minimalist, clean lines, human proportions,” says Anne Breux, a home designer.

Hundreds of people took the self-guided home tour to learn more about the designs and to borrow some ideas.

“I brought my camera,” says Jeannine Clark.

Clark is keeping track of everything she likes so she can take a piece of Palm Springs and modernism back home.

“I love getting new designs,” she says.

Through Sunday’s tours, the “Racquet Club Estates Neighborhood Organization” raised about $13,000. All the proceeds will go toward revitalization projects in the area.