Modernism Week in Palm Springs 2024

For eleven days, February 15-25, 2024, Palm Springs California, comes alive with the sights and sounds of Modernism Week. This annual event, which began in 2006, celebrates the mid-century design and architecture that made the desert oasis a popular destination for Hollywood stars in the 1950s and 60s. From tours of iconic homes to lectures by experts in the field, Modernism Week offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and innovation of mid-century modern design.

Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, CAMP will include talks and films, an information desk, the Modernism Week store by Destination PSP, all day food, drinks, and specialty cocktails by Cheeky’s, book signings, and Professional Color Consultations by Dunn-Edwards. On the two Thursday nights of Modernism Week there will be free live bands playing outside of CAMP in the Hyatt’s Hoodoo Lounge. In addition, there will be many interactive sponsor displays including Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and Lighting Gallery, Brizo, JennAir, Dunn-Edwards, Verizon, and FLOR.

“CAMP is the central meeting place for all things modernism,” said David Dixon, CAMP Manager. “Our attendees may discover activities to attend, shop at our Destination PSP outpost, explore design elements for their homes, and relax and commune with fellow modernists. If Palm Springs is the epicenter of modernism, CAMP is the epicenter of Modernism Week.”
Here are a few of the activities available this year at CAMP:

Sponsor Activations

Ferguson will have a major presence again this year at CAMP. At their display space, Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery will showcase mod-inspired curated product displays by JennAir, Brizo, and Minka. JennAir continues to break the industry mold through unparalleled design, breakthrough technology, and the quietest industry offerings. At CAMP attendees will be able to explore two distinct design expressions that redefine the high-end kitchen: They will discover the duality of JennAir two full-suite designs, with the traditional yet unconventional RISE™ Design and the sleek, minimalist NOIR™ Design. Brizo will showcase a variety of elevated faucet collections including Frank Lloyd Wright, Levoir, Litze, and many others. Observe an assortment of modern lighting fixtures from Minka Lavery, George Kovacs, and Millennium Lighting. In the space there will also be a photo wall for anyone who wants to take a selfie or group photo as well as a well-appointed lounge area for anyone at CAMP who wants to sit down and relax. Custom Trends and Influences books will be available for customers to take home.

Area rugs in CAMP are provided by FLOR and will feature a new pattern called “Here Comes the Sun,” designed by Trina Turk. Dunn-Edwards Paints will provide professional color advisors to assist attendees in choosing the best color of paint for their projects and Ferguson representatives will be able to discuss products with attendees. Their display will include a digital 3-D element, featuring an LED hologram that will appear to float on air.

On-Site Store
The Modernism Week Shop, a special pop-up store by Destination PSP, will offer a wide range of newly created merchandise that captures the retro vibe of Modernism Week. New products to be showcased include the official 2024 Modernism Week poster designed by celebrated artist SHAG, commemorative 2024 Modernism Week t-shirts, and a line of vintage barware and entertainment accessories. New merchandise to be offered includes a new Tiki-inspired line of apparel and home goods, a selection of vintage airline-inspired merchandise, a new line of retro-inspired wall clocks, and a range of Albert Frey-related merchandise (including apparel, prints, stationery, and a guide to all Palm Springs Frey-designed structures). In addition, Destination PSP will offer a wide range of books including the 25^th anniversary edition of Palm Springs Modern, Slim Aarons Essentials, and a book about Trina Turk. The store will also host several book signings, and some signed copies will be available at the pop-up store throughout the festival.

• Bar Keeps: A Collection of California’s Best Vintage Cocktail Napkins (2/16, $15) Join author Patrick Quinn for a lively road trip across the Golden State. He’ll share stories, vintage photos, and cocktail napkins from diners to dive bars both famous and forgotten.
• ESSENTIAL CITY: A Futuristic Exploration of Desert Cities (2/16, $15) Desert cities are the frontline of climate change. Welcome to ESSENTIAL CITY, a hypothetical desert city conceived by SOUND SPACE DESIGN Architects and Desert Developments.
• More Than Desert Modern: William F. Cody’s Visions of Postwar Architecture and Leisure Living (2/17, $15) In the Coachella Valley, William F. Cody created new visions of modernism, desert architecture, and postwar living. The authors of Master of the Midcentury illustrate Cody’s indelible imprint.
• The Rebirth of Albert Frey’s Historic 1946 Bel Vista Tract in Palm Springs (2/17, $15) Todd Hays and William LaVoie tell the restoration story of Frey’s 1946 Bel Vista Tract, including a not-to-miss computer recreation drive-through of Bel Vista as it appeared 78 years ago.
• MOD With a TWIST (2/17 – 20, and 2/22 and 2/23, $45) After a few years hiatus, the ever-popular Mod With a TWIST is back. Spend an hour taking in rollicking, irreverent, witty and surprising presentations about unexpected topics from the midcentury.
• Trails and Treasures: Igniting Excitement about Architecture with FORT: LA’s Urban Adventures (2/18, $15) FORT: LA offers an innovative approach to exploring cities. Our maps of architectural treasures, collaborations with artists and academic fellowships are expanding the community of urban adventurers.
• California Cool: Explore Palm Springs and Beyond Through the Modern Paintings of Danny Heller (2/18, $15) Fill your eyes with swaying palm trees, shimmering swimming pools, atomic architecture, and colorful classic cars as artist Danny Heller takes you on a road trip through his retro-focused paintings.
• Bakelite, Bone & Bamboo: The Mystical Chinese Game of Mahjong (2/18, $15) “Click clack” go the tiles. What is this mysterious Chinese game of mahjong? Learn how it’s played, why it’s so popular and explore the thrill of collecting exotic vintage sets.
• Architect Mark W. Daniels, AIA: “Talking to Strangers Only Leads to Good Things” (2/19, $15) Architect Mark W. Daniels, AIA presents an entertaining and informative talk delving into the intricate world of design and the creative process to generate truly unique architectural buildings.
• Meet Modern Pittsburgh: Intersections of Art, Architecture & Design (2/19, $15) A dynamic exploration of mid-20th century Pittsburgh, PA through the lens of the built environment, public art and cultural spaces, presented by Brittany Reilly of the Pittsburgh Modern Committee.
• Material Landscapes: Authenticity, Innovation and Collaboration (2/20, $15) Surfacedesign, Inc. presents a selection of their landscape architecture work that celebrate horticultural exuberance, material authenticity and cultural and ecological narratives that emerge from each site.
• The Unique and Beautiful Sonoran Desert Gardens of Steve Martino, FASLA (2/20, $15) For the past 40 years, the landscape architectural firm of Steve Martino & Associates has been committed to the development and advancement of Landscape Architecture in the Southwest.
• Meet the Architects Who Saved the 1931 Aluminaire House (2/21, $15) Michael Schwarting and Frances Campani saved the 1931 Aluminaire House from the scrap heap, cared decades for its existence, and gifted the architectural world with an icon of modernist design.
• Preserving Modernism: An Immigrant’s Journey of Repair in Havana, Miami, and Los Angeles (2/21, $15) Is your family like a broken artifact? Rosa Lowinger’s new memoir, Dwell Time, explores the parallels between art conservation and the resurrection of family history.
• The Economic Impact of Nonprofit Arts and Culture Organizations in the Coachella Valley (2/22, FREE) California Desert Arts Council reveals the economic impact of spending by Coachella Valley nonprofit arts organizations and their audiences — and how the data can propel investment in the sector.
• Midcentury Modern Style: An Approachable Guide to Inspired Rooms (2/22, $15) Interior designer Karen Nepacena shows how to bring the spirit of MCM style to any home. Photographer Christopher Dibble shares inspirational yet relatable images capturing the essence.
• Modernism Rules the Waves: The Edgy Elegance of Midcentury Liners and Cruise Ships (2/23, $15) Join midcentury design aficionado and maritime historian Peter Knego as he takes you across the seven seas via a rarefied world of floating Midcentury Modern masterpieces.
• Neutra, Wright and Modernism in Bakersfield (2/23, $15) Bakersfield, best known for its music legends, was also a hotbed of modern architecture. Experience one of the most unexpected concentrations of modern architecture just 100 miles from Los Angeles.
• The Wood Expressionism of John Marsh Davis, 1961–1979 (2/24, $15) Author-architect Hans Baldauf, FAIA, LEED AP, presents John Marsh Davis’ design legacy of wood expressionism, spanning dramatic coastal residences and magisterial timber-framed Napa winery complexes.
• Wasteland to Wonderland: Palm Desert Corporation and the Making of a Modern Desert City (2/24, $15) Although mostly forgotten, Palm Desert is a desert city with deep roots in modern architecture. Historian Luke Leuschner presents an overview of the creation of the city with new and unseen material.
• Paradise Lost: Googie & Modernism in The Catskills (2/24, $15) The resorts of the Catskill Mountains or ‘Borscht Belt’ offered a glamorous summer haven during the 20th century. Explore this hidden midcentury modern wonderland with photographer Isaac Jeffreys.
• Pacific Northwest Modern: Blending East and West (2/24, $15) When modern architecture reached the Pacific Northwest, it merged with existing traditions of Native American and Japanese building. Dale Kutzera explores this unique variant of Midcentury Modern.

• FILM: “Brown vs. Brown”–The Tension of Midcentury Modernism in New Zealand (2/16, $15) A film on the late modernist architect, Peter Mark-Brown, his legacy, Neutra’s influence and New Zealand’s iconic midcentury homes, viewed through the lens of his filmmaker son, with Alan Hess in Q+A.
• Palm Springs Plays Itself: A Vintage Home Movie Cocktail Hour with Deserted Films (2/21, $25) Local home movie film archive, Deserted Films, will screen and provide entertaining context for a selection of amateur vintage 16mm, 8mm and Super 8 films shot in and around Palm Springs.
• FILM: “Albert Frey: The Architectural Envoy – Part I” (2/25, $15) Swiss-born architect Albert Frey introduced Corbusian-influenced modernism to the United States and developed an extraordinary design style, blending industrial techniques and a love of nature.
• FILM: “Albert Frey: The Architectural Interpreter – Part II” (2/25, $15) In 1939, Swiss-born architect Albert Frey embarked on a decades-long journey of discovery. His world travels and love of nature would lead him to a new style of modernism in Palm Springs, California.

Professional Color Consultation at CAMP 

Information Desk
A special Information Desk will assist customers with event or ticket questions, directions and purchase information. The free Official Modernism Week Program Guide and printed schedule brochures may be picked up here at CAMP.

Modernism Week top sponsors include Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, Brizo, Dunn-Edwards Paints, JennAir, Flor, Natural Retreats, and Willis. The City of Palm Springs is the Civic Presenting Sponsor. To receive Modernism Week updates, visit modernismweek.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).

History of Modernism in Palm Springs

Palm Springs has a long history as a popular vacation destination. In the 1920s and 30s, it was known for its hot springs and spas, which attracted a wealthy clientele looking for rest and relaxation. After World War II, however, Palm Springs underwent a transformation. With the rise of the automobile and the expansion of the highway system, the city became more accessible to middle-class Americans. At the same time, the Hollywood film industry was booming, and many movie stars began to build vacation homes in Palm Springs.

These factors combined to create a unique cultural moment in Palm Springs. The city became a hub of mid-century modern design, as architects and designers worked to create homes and public spaces that reflected the optimism and innovation of the postwar era. With its warm climate and stunning natural surroundings, Palm Springs provided the perfect backdrop for this new style of architecture and design.

One of the most famous architects of this era was Richard Neutra, whose work helped define the modernist style. Neutra’s designs were characterized by clean lines, flat roofs, and large expanses of glass that blurred the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. His designs were also highly functional, with an emphasis on simplicity and efficiency.

Other architects who made a mark on Palm Springs during this time included William Krisel, Albert Frey, and Donald Wexler. Together, they created a unique architectural landscape that still defines the city today.

What to Expect at Modernism Week

The event features a wide range of activities and events, including home tours, lectures, film screenings, and parties. Many of these events are centered around mid-century modern design and architecture, and offer visitors a chance to experience the beauty and innovation of this era up close.

One of the highlights of Modernism Week is the home tours. Visitors can take guided tours of iconic mid-century modern homes, many of which have been restored to their original condition. These tours offer a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of the Hollywood elite who made Palm Springs their second home.

In addition to the home tours, Modernism Week also offers a variety of lectures and panel discussions. Experts in the field of mid-century modern design and architecture share their knowledge and insights with visitors, offering a deeper understanding of this fascinating period in American history.

Modernism Week Opening Night Party: Disco in the Desert
Feb 15, 2024 from 7:00 to 10:00 PM

The most anticipated bash of the year returns with an Opening Night Fever dance party to blow your platforms off! Live band, lavish libations and all-night party bites to fuel your disco inferno!

Modernism Week Opening Night Party: Disco in the Desert
Feb 15, 2024 from 7:00 to 10:00 PM

The most anticipated bash of the year returns with an Opening Night Fever dance party to blow your platforms off! Live band, lavish libations and all-night party bites to fuel your disco inferno!

Preview Party for Palm Springs Modernism Show
Feb 16, 2024 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM

Join us for the best modernist design event of the season! Beat the crowds and enjoy a festive cocktail reception and early-buying opportunity at the Modernism Show.

Annenberg Theater All Access Pass
For the first time Modernism Week is offering an Annenberg Theater General Admission All Access Pass for 8 full days of exciting presentations, films, and performances. Only a limited number of passes will be issued and once sold out, will no longer be available.

$495 per person — A 50% discount off full ticket price.
(Value of $1045 incl. fees)

Film screenings are also a popular feature of Modernism Week. The event includes screenings of classic mid-century films, as well as documentaries about the architects and designers who shaped Palm Springs during this era.

For those who want to get in on the action themselves, Modernism Week offers a variety of hands-on workshops and classes. Visitors can learn how to create their own mid-century modern artwork, or take a class on modernist landscaping.

Finally, no visit to Modernism Week would be complete without attending one of the many parties and social events that take place throughout the week. From pool parties to cocktail receptions, these events offer visitors a chance to mingle with fellow mid-century modern enthusiasts and celebrate the unique culture of Palm Springs.

Why Modernism Week Matters

Modernism Week is more than just a fun event for fans of mid-century modern design and architecture. It is also an important cultural event that celebrates the history and heritage of Palm Springs. The mid-century modern architecture and design that define the city are a testament to the creativity and innovation of the postwar era, and represent an important chapter in American history.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in mid-century modern design and architecture, and events like Modernism Week have played a key role in this resurgence. By showcasing the beauty and functionality of mid-century modern design, Modernism Week has helped to inspire a new generation of architects, designers, and homeowners to embrace this aesthetic.

But beyond its impact on the world of design and architecture, Modernism Week also has a significant economic impact on Palm Springs and the surrounding area. The event brings in thousands of visitors each year, who spend money on hotels, restaurants, and other local businesses. This economic activity supports jobs and helps to drive the local economy.

Furthermore, Modernism Week has helped to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the city’s mid-century modern architecture and design. Many of the homes and buildings from this era are now recognized as historic landmarks, and efforts are underway to preserve and restore these structures for future generations.

In this sense, Modernism Week is not just a celebration of the past, but a commitment to the future. By celebrating the beauty and innovation of mid-century modern design and architecture, the event helps to ensure that these important cultural artifacts will be preserved and celebrated for years to come.

Tips for Visitors

If you’re planning to attend Modernism Week, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your experience:

1. Plan ahead: Modernism Week is a popular event, and many of the tours and events sell out quickly. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
2. Dress appropriately: Palm Springs can be warm in February, so dress accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours, and bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
3. Pace yourself: With so many events and activities taking place throughout the week, it can be tempting to try to do everything. However, be sure to pace yourself and take breaks when needed to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
4. Meet new people: Modernism Week is a great opportunity to meet fellow mid-century modern enthusiasts from around the world. Be sure to attend some of the social events and strike up a conversation with someone new.
5. Explore the city: While Modernism Week is focused on mid-century modern design and architecture, there is much more to see and do in Palm Springs. Take some time to explore the city’s shops, restaurants, and natural attractions to get a deeper sense of what makes this desert oasis so special.

Modernism Week in Palm Springs is a unique and exciting event that celebrates the beauty and innovation of mid-century modern design and architecture. From home tours to lectures and parties, the event offers visitors a chance to experience the culture and history of Palm Springs up close. But beyond its entertainment value, Modernism Week also has a significant cultural and economic impact, helping to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the city’s mid-century modern heritage.

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a fun and unique vacation experience, Modernism Week is not to be missed. So mark your calendar for next February and start planning your trip to Palm Springs today!

MODERNISM WEEK TICKETS
https://ModernismWeek.com

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