Celebrating a Decade of Palm Springs Modern Living by James Schnepf: A Special Home Tour

Join us for an extraordinary Modernism Week home tour that celebrates the artistry and vision of midcentury Modern architects, as captured in James Schnepf's acclaimed book Palm Springs Modern Living. In honor of the 10th anniversary of Schnepf’s iconic work, this exclusive tour offers a rare opportunity to explore properties designed by legendary midcentury architects, all within the City of Palm Springs. Each home on the tour exemplifies the groundbreaking work of renowned architects featured in the book, including Donald Wexler, William Krisel, E. Stewart Williams, Charles Du Bois, Herbert Burns, and Howard Lapham.

Enhance your tour experience with innovative features that bring Schnepf’s work to life. At each property, access QR codes to hear James Schnepf share personal insights from the original photo shoots and recount memorable conversations with homeowners, designers, and architects who shaped his renowned book.

Explore these architectural masterpieces with the aid of an online brochure, showcasing high-resolution photos of the homes as they appeared in Palm Springs Modern Living. As you navigate each location, encounter life-size stand-up cutouts of the architects Schnepf photographed and interviewed for his book. Dive deeper into the history and stories behind each property with audio-recorded information narrated by James Schnepf himself, accessible via QR codes at each site. These recordings include details about the history of the property, anecdotes from the photo shoots, and highlights of conversations with former homeowners, designers, and architects.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Palm Springs’ midcentury Modern heritage through the lens of James Schnepf’s photography and storytelling. Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or new to Modernism, this event promises to be a highlight of Modernism Week. Join us in celebrating the enduring legacy of midcentury Modern architecture and the vibrant community that cherishes it. 

Our apologies, Palm Springs Modern Living is no longer in print and is not available for purchase.

$160

Things To KnowAges 13 and older
Private homes are not wheelchair accessible
Pets and animals not permitted
Photography permitted at discretion of host
No food or drinks permitted in homes
Free neighborhood street parking
Walking activity with exterior and/or interior steps
Restrooms not available
Interior/exterior tour
Large purses, bags, and backpacks not permitted
No smoking or e-cigarettes

Important InformationCheck-in time is from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
Tickets & wristbands must be picked up between 8:30 AM–11:00 AM.
Check-in Closes @ 11:00 AM, Tickets & wristbands cannot be picked up after 11:00 AM.
You must come to check in to receive your tickets, wristbands, and home addresses.
There are 6 homes on this tour.
Tickets are per individual.
This is a self-driving tour and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.
Some homes may have limited parking and may require some walking from available parking spaces.
Comfortable, slip-on style shoes suggested.
Tour takes place rain or shine.
The organizer of this event is Modernism Week.

Check-in LocationTemple Isaiah
332 W Alejo Rd
Palm Springs, CA 92262View Map

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