Where Timeless Design Meets Desert Luxury
Palm Springs isn’t just a destination to be admired from a distance. It has a unique, lived-in allure that invites visitors to immerse themselves in its midcentury architecture. The resorts here aren’t just places to stay—they’re experiences, each with a distinct story and personality. These midcentury masterpieces offer a glimpse into the past and a comfortable, stylish way to relive it, blending innovation with hospitality in a way few other destinations can.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool of an iconic boutique resort or exploring hidden midcentury architectural gems, Palm Springs is a living canvas where design meets relaxation. Discover these architectural marvels and plan your next getaway at a place where history and modern luxury meet in perfect harmony.
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The Desert Star (1955)
A consortium of three married couples hired architectural designer Howard Lapham to design a small resort hotel. The Desert Star was built on a lot that the couple owned together. It is a remarkably intact modernist hotel and represents a particular building type important to the history of Palm Springs. The property features six rentable vacation studios, each measuring 600 square feet and including a living room and a fully equipped kitchen.
The Desert Star is in a quiet neighborhood just minutes from downtown, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the impressive mountain views.
Address: 1611 S Calle Palo Fierro
L’Horizon Hotel and Spa (1952)
Designed by William F. Cody, this property epitomizes the desert city's signature modernist style. Cody's design emphasizes simplicity, natural light, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Originally built as a private residence for Hollywood producer Jack Wrather and actress Bonita Granville, L'Horizon became a playground for Hollywood A-listers. The hotel features an intimate cluster of 25 bungalows arranged around a central swimming pool, with rugged mountain views providing a dramatic backdrop.
Steve Hermann, a renowned designer known for his high-end homes and hotels, played a pivotal role in the remodel of L'Horizon Hotel and Spa. His vision brought back the glamour of Hollywood's golden age while maintaining the mid-century modern aesthetic.
Herman Bungalows
The remodel included the creation of the Hermann Bungalows, a separate, ultra-luxury enclave within the resort. These bungalows feature private outdoor spaces, custom dark wood and tile finishes, and Venetian terrazzo floors. The bungalows are designed to feel like luxurious private residences, offering a unique and decadent desert escape.
Named the #1 Resort in the world by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler Magazine.
Learn More: Steve Hermann Luxury Hotels of Palm Springs
Address: 1050 E Palm Canyon Drive
The Hideaway (1947)
Designed by the renowned architect Herbert W. Burns, the hotel opened as the Town & Desert Apartments. It was described as the "apartments of tomorrow" and received national attention when featured in the May 1948 issue of Architectural Record.
The Hideaway is a prime example of midcentury modern architecture, featuring sleek lines, bold colors, and minimalist décor that evoke the glamour and sophistication of the 1950s and 60s. Herbert Burns' design focused on livability and humility, blending strong composition and clear lines.
The Hideaway is a Class 1 Historic Site, recognizing its architectural significance and Burns' contribution to Palm Springs' modernist movement.
Today, The Hideaway offers a luxurious and modern experience, with 10 beautifully appointed rooms and suites that blend vintage charm with contemporary comforts. The hotel's stunning outdoor pool area, surrounded by lush palm trees, is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
Address: 370 W Arenas Road
Orbit In (1955)
A short stroll down Arenas Road from The Hideaway, you’ll find its sister seductress, Orbit In. This 9-room property was designed by Herbert Burns. He believed a house should not be built to impress or show off success, but to be a haven and a place to completely relax. The openness of his designs allows people to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.
The current owners have lovingly maintained the hotel's retro atmosphere while making thoughtful improvements. The Orbit In features a Boomerang Bar, a gated hot tub with a fire pit, private rear patios, and cruiser bikes for guests to explore the neighborhood.
Address: 562 W Arenas Road
The Weekend
The Weekend is a small midcentury modern luxury boutique resort in the center of the celebrity-studded Old Las Palmas neighborhood. Originally built in the 1960s, it has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation by Steve Hermann, also known for his work on the L'Horizon Hotel.
The remodel has transformed The Weekend into a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends midcentury style with modern amenities. The resort features 10 spacious suites with private patios, rain showers, and multiple Smart TVs. The design emphasizes a timeless and chic atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway.
Address: 111 S Via Las Palmas
Del Marcos (1947)
Del Marcos is a historic gem designed by architect William F. Cody. Originally built for owners Samuel and Adele Marcus, the hotel was Cody's first independent commission in Palm Springs and played a significant role in launching his career in the desert.
The Del Marcos Hotel is renowned for its midcentury-modern architecture, featuring native stone and redwood materials. The design includes 17 luxurious suites with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The hotel's U-shaped plan centers around a courtyard.
Palm Springs City Council designated the Del Marcos Hotel as a Class 1 Historic Site, recognizing its architectural significance.
The hotel has been meticulously restored to preserve its midcentury charm while offering modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor saltwater pool, poolside fire pits, and a retro-inspired lobby. Note this is an age 21+ hotel.
Address: 225 W Baristo Road
Holiday House (1951)
Holiday House Palm Springs was a project of midcentury architectural designer Herbert W. Burns. Burns was one of the most significant figures in shaping Palm Springs' modernist style, which has since become known as midcentury modern. 2025 Michelin Key Awarded.
The property features midcentury-inspired elements, a communal atmosphere, and a whimsical edge. The design centers on Gio Ponti-inspired tile work in the bar and artwork throughout the property, including pieces by David Hockney, Roy Lichtenstein, Herb Ritts, Alex Katz, and Mr. Brainwash, as well as a garden sculpture by Donald Sultan.
To create a communal environment, Holiday House does not have televisions in its rooms. Guests must be 21 and over.
Address: 200 W Arenas Road
Azure Sky Hotel (1959)
Azure Sky Hotel exudes a simple yet sophisticated style, featuring unmistakable midcentury modern elements. Its tranquil setting, breathtaking mountain views, and prime location make it the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Adults-only boutique hotel with classic breeze block walls, private patios, and fire features. It maintains an authentic architectural structure while offering contemporary finishes.
Address: 1661 S Calle Palo Fierro
Triangle Inn (1958)
Triangle Inn is a charming gay men's resort with a rich history. Originally built as the Impala Lodge, it was designed by architect Hugh Kaptur for his first commercial contract. The hotel is a prime example of mid-century modern architecture, featuring steel, glass, and stone designs from that era.
New owners purchased the property and transformed it into a gay men's clothing-optional resort. Over the years, they have made numerous renovations and upgrades to enhance the property while maintaining its mid-century charm. The Triangle Inn offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, making it a popular destination for guests from around the world.
Address: 555 E San Lorenzo Road
Skylark Hotel (1955)
Skylark Hotel was designed to be a stylish hideaway for Hollywood stars and desert-loving vacationers. The hotel's streamlined architecture, colorful doors, and inviting pool are hallmarks of the California-cool aesthetic.
The Skylark Hotel has undergone several renovations to maintain its vintage charm while incorporating modern amenities. The current owner meticulously restored the property, preserving its original architecture and adding contemporary touches. It features 28 thoughtfully restored rooms.
The hotel also boasts Lost Property Restaurant & Bar, helmed by Chef Brandon Kida, which offers a creative spin on American Coastal cuisine.
Address: 1466 N Palm Canyon Drive
Learn more: Experience the Charm of The Skylark Hotel in Palm Springs
Limón (1956)
This luxurious midcentury modern boutique hotel has a fascinating history. Originally constructed as an all-steel apartment building called Stuart Manor, it was designed to be "fireproof" and operated as individual residential apartments.
The property was built by Malcolm Clarke Sr., who was also involved in the now-defunct Town and Country Restaurant in downtown Palm Springs. Clarke had connections with notable figures like Frank Sinatra and was mentioned in an FBI profile of Sinatra as one of his business associates. Note that all guests must be age 21 and older.
Address: 560 S Grenfall Road
Why Palm Springs Is the Midcentury Capital of the World
In the mid-20th century, architects including William F. Cody, Herbert Burns, Hugh Kaptur, Albert Frey, and Donald Wexler used Palm Springs as a laboratory for modern living.
Flat planes. Breeze block. Clerestory windows. Indoor-outdoor flow. Pool-centric layouts.
Today, visitors don’t just tour these design movements — they live inside them.
Planning your trip during Modernism Week? Book early. These historic properties fill quickly.
FAQs: Midcentury Modern Hotels in Palm Springs
What is a midcentury modern hotel?
A midcentury modern hotel typically refers to a property built between the 1940s and 1960s that reflects modernist architectural principles — flat planes, post-and-beam construction, clerestory windows, indoor-outdoor living, breeze block walls, and minimalist ornamentation. In Palm Springs, many of these properties were designed by notable architects like William F. Cody and Herbert Burns.
Why is Palm Springs famous for midcentury modern architecture?
Palm Springs became a design playground in the mid-20th century due to its climate, open land, and Hollywood clientele. Architects used new materials such as steel and glass to design homes and resorts that embraced desert living. Today, the city has one of the most intact collections of midcentury architecture in the world.
What is the best time to book a midcentury modern hotel in Palm Springs?
October through May offers the most comfortable weather. If visiting during Modernism Week (February and October), book several months in advance — historic boutique properties sell out quickly. Summer offers the best rates, especially Sunday through Thursday.
Are midcentury hotels in Palm Springs adults-only?
Many boutique properties are 21+, including Del Marcos, Azure Sky, and Limón. Always confirm age policies before booking, especially for group trips.
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