Celebrating 20 Years of Modernism Week with Mattel and Barbie
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Modernism Week, we partnered with Mattel, Inc. and Barbie to commission a large-scale public artwork by renowned designer Nina Tolstrup of Studiomama for the London Design Festival (September 14-22, 2024). As part of her design process, Nina fully immersed herself in Greater Palm Springs, drawing architectural inspiration from the area’s iconic midcentury modern landmarks.
Midcentury Modern Tours
Butterfly rooflines, colorful front doors, and A-frame facades galore: Few places in the world showcase such a rich collection of midcentury modern architecture as Greater Palm Springs. Travel back in time and explore these architectural gems by embarking on one of the many midcentury modern tours offered year-round. Visitors can tour (and even vacation in) Sinatra’s iconic “Twin Palms” residence and other celebrity homes.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
For a panoramic view of Greater Palm Springs, hop aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The world’s largest rotating tramcar transports visitors on a 10-minute ride, ascending more than 8,500 feet from the base of Chino Canyon to the summit of Mount San Jacinto. At the top, you'll arrive at the Mountain Station, a three-story modernist chalet designed by architect E. Stewart Williams that offers breathtaking views of the valley below and pristine alpine wilderness.
Sunnylands
Sunnylands in Rancho Mirage has welcomed presidents, celebrities, and even royalty through its doors. U.S. Ambassador Walter Annenberg and his wife, Leonore, commissioned modernist architect A. Quincy Jones to build the 29,000-square-foot estate as their desert home in 1966, and the couple has hosted icons like Frank Sinatra, Nancy and Ronald Reagan, and Queen Elizabeth II. Today, Sunnylands continues to serve as a neutral meeting place for diplomats and world leaders.
Superbloom
Located in the Uptown Design District, SUPERBLOOM is a creative hub, art gallery, boutique, and design lab all in one. This vibrant space offers a stylish selection of unisex apparel, home décor, accessories, and original artwork. Be sure to ask about their Full Bloom Paint Splatter Program, where you can upcycle your clothing, shoes, or furniture to give them a new, artistic life.
The Shag House
Adding to the midcentury modern movement is the newest gem, The Shag House, a fully immersive home designed by the artist Shag, unveiled earlier this year. This addition continues to solidify Greater Palm Springs' position as a hub of design innovation and cultural significance.
