Palm Springs is a living museum of midcentury modern architecture, and no one brings that story to life quite like Kurt Cyr, founder and guide of Palm Springs Mod Squad Tours. With a background in design and a passion for storytelling, Cyr offers visitors an unforgettable journey through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and homes — one minivan tour at a time.
A Personal Journey into Desert Modernism
“For as long as humans have lived indoors, architecture has fascinated us,” says Kurt, who found his own inspiration after moving into one of Palm Springs’ iconic Alexander-built homes in 1999. “We just wanted a sexy house with glass walls that opened to the pool — and that’s what we got.”
That first home sparked a lifelong appreciation for the work of Desert Modernist architects like William Krisel, Donald Wexler, and E. Stewart Williams. “Living here, these architects become your celebrities,” Kurt says.
From Modernism Week Volunteer to Mod Squad
By 2010, Kurt and his husband had moved to Palm Springs full-time. The economy had slowed, but his curiosity had not. “I started volunteering for Modernism Week. It was a way to see amazing homes and be part of the mid-century modern community,” he explains.
His enthusiasm soon earned him a spot on the Modernism Week double-decker buses, narrating architecture tours to sold-out crowds. Encouraged by the response, Kurt eventually launched Palm Springs Mod Squad Tours — a more intimate experience for design lovers who wanted to dive deeper.
What Makes Mod Squad Tours Stand Out?
Mod Squad Tours are designed for small groups — just five guests per tour — allowing for a conversational, custom-tailored experience. Touring in a sleek, air-conditioned minivan, guests explore key neighborhoods such as:
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Twin Palms
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Vista Las Palmas
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The Racquet Club Estates
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Deepwell Estates
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And architectural landmarks like the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway or the Kaufmann House
Rather than offering a scripted overview, Kurt brings the history of Palm Springs to life with personal stories, insider insights, and thoughtful commentary. “It’s not just about the architecture — it’s about the people who lived here, the designers who shaped it, and how the city evolved,” he says.
Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway
Why Palm Springs Is a Modernism Treasure
What makes Palm Springs architecture so special? According to Kurt, it’s the city’s preservation. “In other parts of Southern California, mid-century homes were remodeled or torn down. But in Palm Springs, homes were only used seasonally. People didn’t change them much.”
As a result, the city now boasts one of the most intact collections of midcentury modern homes in the world. “Palm Springs was like a deep freezer of modernist design,” Kurt explains. “And it started to thaw in the 1990s.”
A Global Audience, One Tour at a Time
Architecture fans from around the world — from Australia to Germany to Brooklyn — join Mod Squad’s tours. “It’s a great mix of people who come specifically to see Palm Springs architecture,” Kurt says. “We often have a real cross-section of the world all in one van.”
His warm, engaging style makes guests feel right at home — whether they're design professionals or simply curious travelers.
Looking Ahead: Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future
While Kurt is committed to honoring the legacy of Desert Modernism, he’s also focused on the future. “It’s important to preserve and maintain our architecture — but also to bring in younger generations,” he says. “I’d love to see an architectural school in Palm Springs one day.”
For Kurt, architecture isn’t just about buildings — it’s about community, creativity, and the ongoing story of a city that continues to inspire.
👉 Book your Mod Squad Tour now
📍 Tour Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
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