Modernism Week — October is back with a lineup of fascinating talks and presentations that will immerse you in the rich history and cutting-edge restoration of midcentury architecture. From October 24-27, 2024, participate in captivating discussions by renowned preservationists, historians, and architects, offering insights into the area’s iconic architectural gems.
Mark your calendars for these top talks:
Lost, Saved & Endangered: Modernist Architecture in Palm Springs
Date: October 25, 2024
Join Palm Springs Preservation Foundation president Gary Johns for an enlightening journey through Palm Springs’ architectural heritage. This engaging presentation will explore how the city’s modernist buildings have been lost, saved, or endangered over the years, featuring rare vintage photos and entertaining stories that capture the challenges of preservation. Get tickets here.
The Rebirth of Albert Frey’s Historic 1946 Bel Vista Tract
Date: October 25, 2024
Dive into the remarkable story of the restoration of Palm Springs’ first modern housing tract, designed by renowned architect Albert Frey. Todd Hays, in collaboration with architect William LaVoie, has painstakingly restored these once unrecognizable homes. Discover how innovative technology was used to recreate the entire neighborhood, giving you the chance to virtually experience what this historic tract originally looked like. Get tickets here.
Canyon Country Club: History and Design of Palm Springs’ Garden of Eden
Date: October 25, 2024
Delve into the history of the Canyon Country Club, Palm Springs’ answer to the midcentury luxury real estate boom. Presented by historian Steve Treinen, this talk will uncover how visionary architects and designers shaped this glamorous neighborhood, weaving together social and architectural history with stunning imagery from past and present. Get tickets here.
Divinely Inspired: Catherine Cody and Morris Skenderian A.I.A. Discuss William F. Cody’s St. Theresa Catholic Church
Date: October 25-26, 2024
Experience a behind-the-scenes look at the divine inspiration behind architect William F. Cody’s design of St. Theresa Catholic Church. Cody’s daughter, Catherine Cody, and architect Morris Skenderian will share personal stories, photos, and drawings that reveal the meticulous design process behind this 1960s architectural gem. Following the presentation, take a guided tour of the church’s sanctuary, and enjoy a reception where Cody’s architectural legacy will come to life. Get tickets here.
Red Tile Romance
Date: October 25, 2024
Before modernism, Palm Springs was defined by the romantic Spanish Revival style. Historian Steve Vaught will guide you through the city’s architectural past, showcasing how Spanish influences shaped the landscape of Palm Springs in the 1920s and 1930s. Explore the iconic landmarks that still stand as testaments to this early era of design, alongside stories of those that have been lost to time. Get tickets here.
Escape into the World of Tiki!
Date: October 26, 2024
Step into the exotic world of tiki culture with Martin Cate, renowned author and owner of Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating history of tiki bars, their midcentury rise to fame, and how this cultural phenomenon has made a remarkable comeback. Guests will also receive a complimentary cocktail inspired by the tiki traditions discussed in the talk, making this an immersive and refreshing experience. Get tickets here.
