Palm Springs Architects

 

The first African-American to live in Palm Springs, Lawrence Crossley, bought a tract of land bordered by 34th Avenue and Martha Street, west of the city's center. These homes were built on 77 parcels, most of which were modest Minimal Traditional-style residences. Crossley later bought more land to continue developing his estate, and many of these homes were designed by other architects, including some local favorites. Today, you can still find these homes.

Modernist architecture was born in Palm Springs. Early on, architects like E. Stewart Williams followed in his father's footsteps. His father, Harry Williams, designed the La Plaza in downtown Palm Springs for Julia Carnell, an Ohio-based client. But Williams never wanted to lead a large firm, and he watched his father's business collapse during the Depression. Instead, he sold ice cream on the streetside. His clients were rich, but his buildings were affordable for the average person.

In 1952, Wexler and Harrison formed a partnership. They met while working at William Cody's office. Harrison had studied architecture at UCLA and worked for Richard Neutra before returning to Palm Springs. They combined their passions for architecture with an engineering background, resulting in simple, elegant designs. They also designed the House of Tomorrow, which belonged to prominent developer Robert Alexander. This residence hosted extravagant design parties. Elvis Presley and Priscilla became famous there.

Neutra, who had immigrated from Germany in 1923, became one of the most famous architects in Palm Springs. The Kaufmann House, one of the most beautiful homes in the city, is one of Neutra's best-known structures. In the mid-1950s, Neutra began to develop his modernist style and became a leading figure in Modern architecture. A few other notable Palm Springs architects were John Porter Clark and Albert Frey. They began working together in 1946, but split up a year later due to health problems. In 1956, E. Stewart Williams joined his father, Harry, and brother Roger.

Despite the influence of postmodern and neo-eclectic architecture, the styles of contemporary homes remain strong in Palm Springs. Towering windows and unique forms have helped to distinguish contemporary homes. These designs are based on traditional styles but have an experimental edge that will inspire you. This architectural style has become a trend in Palm Springs. In addition to modern styles, Palm Springs architecture also has an interesting influence on desert living. In this style, many architects have incorporated the principles of contemporary design into their work.

Howard Lapham is another notable Palm Springs architect. The son of a Polish immigrant, Sackley grew up in New York and later migrated to California to study architecture. He graduated from USC in 1961, where he also studied at Taliesin. While he didn't have a license, he still managed to design a few high-end residences in the area. One of his homes, the Hyatt von Dehn Residence, was featured in the Architectural Digest magazine in 1960. In 1969, Steve McQueen purchased it.