As we look forward to Modernism Week this February 13-23, 2025, we’re thrilled to host a new Mod Squad for our 20th year! They’ll be taking us behind the scenes of the ultimate celebration of midcentury architecture, design, culture, and more.
Get to know these creatives, and follow along as they each share more about what “modernism” means to them on our Instagram from February 1-4, 2025.
@black.in.palmsprings
Lori Saunders-Rodgers and Kenny Rodgers
Lori is a “Georgia Peach” who moved to the Greater Palm Springs area in 2012, as a traveling Speech Therapist. Lori has always enjoyed learning about different cultures, exploring different areas, as well as finding similarities and differences in everything around her. Lori grew up in an area with Victorian and Antebellum homes, often decorated with heavy drapes, large and heavy wooden furniture, accented with florals and occasional lace. Lori has been intrigued with the Midcentury Modern lifestyle that is synonymous with Palm Springs. The bright colors match Lori’s personality (and wardrobe). The melding of indoor and outdoor living complements Lori’s love for solitude and her grounded spirit. It also feeds her love for the beauty and simplicity of nature. Lori is thrilled to be a part of Mod Squad as it is the ultimate way to learn and explore the Midcentury Modern culture. You will want to keep your eye on what this Georgia/California Peach discovers because her attention to detail and perspective is truly one-of-a-kind.
Kenny is a dedicated advocate for architecture and design who has made a significant impact on the Greater Palm Springs area by helping to finance and develop over $410 million in housing projects. Kenny seamlessly blends a passion for modernist design with a commitment to community development. As a lover of architecture, Kenny finds inspiration in the timeless beauty of mid-century homes and the fascinating stories behind historic structures. Whether exploring the iconic landmarks of Modernism Week or supporting the preservation of Palm Springs’ architectural treasures, Kenny believes every building has a story worth telling. Kenny is also closely connected to Black In Springs (BiPS), a dynamic social media platform promoting all things Greater Palm Springs. Operated by Lori Saunders Rodgers, whose work has been celebrated in local and regional magazines, advertisements, and Greater Palm Springs publications, BiPS highlights the vibrant culture, history, and lifestyle of the area. Through this partnership, Kenny helps amplify the stories of modernism, fostering connections between architecture, community, and heritage in the Coachella Valley.
@aprettycoolhoteltour
Margaret and Corey Bienert
Margaret and Corey are the photographers and couple behind A Pretty Cool Hotel Tour, a travel series exploring themed rooms and adults-only hotels in the United States and abroad. They started the project in 2018 and released Hotel Kitsch in 2023 with Artisan Books. When they’re not on the road, Margaret and Corey split their time between Los Angeles, California, and southwest Michigan.
@modernismweekmexicocity
Roberto Diaz Gonzalez
Roberto is a Mexico City native and a skilled social media expert with a proven track record of building and managing successful online communities. With over 20 years of art direction experience, he combines creativity with strategic thinking to deliver visually stunning content. A talented photographer and videographer, Roberto captures compelling stories through the lens, and his work shines on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where he’s built thriving and engaged audiences. An expert in mid-century modern architects and architecture, Roberto’s passion is rooted in his family’s legacy, as his grandfather, Thomas S. Gore, built the iconic Hotel Geneve and the Condesa apartments in Mexico City. He currently directs Modernism Week in Mexico City, showcasing his leadership in the creative and cultural space.
@katrinadippner
Katrina Dippner
Katrina is a designer based in Palm Springs, California. She specializes in creating beautiful interiors, pop-up installations, and art-focused spaces. Inspired by the vibrant culture, landscape, and architecture of her hometown, Katrina combines creativity and functionality to design unique environments that inspire and engage. Fun fact: Katrina was a recipient of the Modernism Week Scholarship Program!
