Bobby Berk Returns to Modernism Week with Casa Tierra

Introducing the 2022 Modernism Week Showcase Home: An Idyllic Desert Modern Escape

Design expert and Emmy-nominated host of Netflix’s Queer Eye Bobby Berk is no stranger to Modernism Week. From being among Modernism Week’s first Mod Squad dignitaries to designing Modernism Week’s Social House, he has always had a special place in his heart for desert modernism and life out here among the palms and dunes. This year, Bobby Berk returns with aplomb, unveiling a completely renovated and re-imagined private estate hidden in the hills of Palm Desert.

From May 12-15, 2022, this hidden gem of an estate will be open to the public for tours during Modernism Week — May. Working with local designer and Hotelement founder Paula Oblen to reimagine the more than 5,000 square feet of living space with an eye toward hospitality, Berk and Oblen transformed this unique Spanish-style property into a world-class destination, with modern touches and an emphasis of Berk’s unique design style throughout. 

This project has been a labor of love. The novelty of reimagining a property is a dream come true and alongside Modernism Week is a match made in heaven. To share this hidden gem in Palm Desert and create Casa Tierra to be an escape for anyone to explore and stay, is a designer and guest haven.

– Bobby Berk –

Casa Tierra offers breathtaking panoramic views from its two and a half-acre hillside setting. The property’s buildings feature charming balconies, a spacious pool and hot tub, and many private, covered seating areas. Indoors, Bobby’s aspirational yet attainable style is on display throughout the five bedroom/five and a half bathroom main house as well as the two casitas that include their own kitchens and bathrooms.

The original buildings are Spanish-Mediterranean style, which I have approached with a functional and minimalist perspective, blending textures and patterns inspired by the desert into the overall setting. Casa Tierra is a special project for me and I look forward to sharing the magic I see in it with those who attend Modernism Week.

– Bobby Berk –
Photo: Jonny Marlow/Courtesy Palm Springs Life

“We are so excited to partner with Bobby on this exciting design project,” said Lisa Vossler Smith, Modernism Week Executive Director. “Modernism Week is known for offering exclusive tours of stunning properties not generally open to the public. We know that participants will be thrilled to tour this magnificent compound and see first-hand Bobby’s unique design style.”

Modernism Week sponsors BrizoDunn-Edwards Paints, Ferguson Bath, Kitchen and LightingJennAir, Outer, and Willis generously contributed to this project.

Don’t miss the big reveal at Modernism Week — May!


Modernism Week Showcase Home: Casa Tierra
May 12-15, 2022
Tours available from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM
Tickets: $55, must be purchased in advance

Purchase tickets here