Author
Randy Garner

From Sacred Space to Center Stage

Transforming Frey’s Desert Gem into Dezart Performs Playhouse First Church of Christ, Scientist stands as a serene yet striking testament to Albert Frey’s architectural legacy. Built in 1957, the structure embodies Frey’s signature desert modernist style—simple, elegant lines; industrial materials…

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The Plaza Theatre: A Star Returns to the Spotlight

Built in the striking early Spanish-style architecture, The Plaza Theatre was designed for people who loved the desert. Its high, gently curving ceiling was a dusky blue, like the sky, with tiny stars that twinkled on and off. Along either side of the simulated garden walls were little Spanish…

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La Plaza: The Heart of Historic Palm Springs

The Vision of Julia Carnell Julia Carnell, a philanthropist and part-owner of the National Cash Register Company, began visiting Palm Springs in the early 1930s, often staying at the Desert Inn operated by her close friend Nellie Coffman. In 1934, encouraged by local realtor Robert Ransom, Carnell…

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A Peek At The Iconic Bob Hope House

Perched high in the exclusive Southridge neighborhood of Palm Springs, the legendary Bob Hope House is one of Southern California's most recognized and architecturally significant homes. Located at 2466 Southridge Drive, this 24,000-square-foot residence is an architectural marvel and a lasting…

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Hollywood and Palm Springs: A Star-Studded History

Palm Springs’ glamorous connection to Hollywood goes back over a century, beginning in 1915 when the silent film Peer Gynt was partially shot amid the area’s dramatic desert landscape. Soon after, the stark beauty of the Coachella Valley attracted producers of Zane Grey Westerns and exotic…

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Mid-Century Modern Meets Palm Springs: A Desert Adventure

Hulu's Mid-Century Modern, filmed in LA but set against the backdrop of Palm Springs, seems to channel the same sleek, glamorous vibe that makes Palm Springs a top spot for relaxation and adventure. If the main characters of Mid-Century Modern were to visit Palm Springs, they would find themselves…

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