Palm Springs is known as one of the most historically significant cities in California. Famous for its beautiful mid-century modern architecture, it’s a go-to destination not only for the warm weather and fabulous hotels, but also for some of the most interesting and unique sightseeing the state has to offer. A true design lover’s dream, there is no better time to visit than during Modernism Week 2022. This eleven-day festival will take place from February 17th-27th. These festivities aren’t only a celebration of architecture, but Modernism Week also honors the art, fashion, culture, and people of the area.

“We are thrilled to be able to present Modernism Week in February with all of the fanfare and celebration typically associated with our events,” says Modernism Week Executive Director, Lisa Vossler Smith.“We have exciting new tours and events planned and of course we will be bringing back traditional favorites. We invite the public to join us for eleven amazing days of festivities.” 

Modernism Week began in 2006 as an adjunct to the Palm Springs Modernism Show And Sale and the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture And Design Council Symposium. It’s been a major draw to the area ever since. From 2012 to 2020, attendance increased significantly from 12000 to 162000 visitors. 

As expected, attendance in 2021 was significantly lower due to Covid— with just 14000 people. There were only 30 events. 

However, with many people feeling safer and excited to experience everything Palm Springs has to offer again, 2022 will surely be a banner year. From home tours to architectural tours, talks and so much more, there are over 350 events currently planned. Here are just a few highlights of what will be taking place during Modernism Week 2022. 

Tour Of Bobby Berk’s House Casa Tierra

Fans of the designer and Queer Eye star can get tickets for an exclusive tour of his Palm Springs home. “It is an honor to participate in Modernism Week in a very different capacity year,” Berk says “I have had a love for Modernism Week since 2017 when I first had a design project featured during the event. Now that I am venturing into my own property for Modernism Week, it was only fitting to take on an oasis tucked away in a pocket of Palm Desert.”

The unique Spanish-style property was transformed by the designer and features many modern touches. Located in Palm Desert, Casa Tiera has more than 5000 interior square feet. 

With a design scheme that reflects the colors and textures of the desert landscape and views of the breathtaking desert hillside, it embodies the indoor/outdoor lifestyle that Southern California is known for. 

“I knew I wanted to transform this special compound into a chic desert modern getaway. It’s the perfect kind of project to share with Modernism Week because of its scale and design opportunities. 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,” says Berk. 

A Celebration Of Black History Month

One fact that many people are unaware of is that for more than a century, black designers, developers, and builders have been major contributors to the Palm Springs area. In 2022, these trailblazers will be honored and celebrated with a three-part symposium.

In the first part, “Black History of Palm Springs,” panel participants Tyrone Beason who is a reporter for the Los Angeles Times, along with Jarvis Crawford and Dieter Crawford, who are leaders of the Palm Springs Black History Committee, will share stories of historic area landmarks. 

For part two, “Circle of Paul R. Williams,” Gail Kennard who is the daughter of renowned designer Robert Kennard will discuss the role Paul R. Williams played in inspiring other Black designers including her father, James Garrott, Ralph Vaughn, and Arthur Silvers, to launch careers their careers in Los Angeles. 

In part three, “Destination Modernism Week”, architect Drake Dillard of the firm Perkins And Will will present a proposed open-air art gallery and park that will run alongside the light rail line in Los Angeles’ Crenshaw District. 

Returning Favorites

While many people are excited about the new events, many programs from previous years will also be returning. Some of these events include a Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tours, which includes a Twilight Architectural Bus Tour along with special tours led by Charles Phoenix. 

Another fun event will be the Vintage Travel Trailer Show, which will take place during the second weekend of Modernism Week. 

There are also tours scheduled for iconic homes in the Coachella Valley area including properties formerly owned by Frank Sinatra, Kirk Douglas, Magda Gabor, and William Holden.

The Palm Springs Historical Society will also offer walking tours of various neighborhoods, the exclusive Lautner Compound, and historic Temple Isaiah among many other events, parties, and programs.