‘Modernism Week 2025’ - Page 2

Mid-century modern architecture celebrates the festival’s 20th year of Palm Springs love
By Adriene Biondo
Fridays on the Homefront
Villa Roma Garden Homes: eight featured homes by architect James Schuler.

The Merito Manor home tour represents another historic destination you won't want to miss. Designed by architect Barry Alan Berkus, this ten‐unit, single‐story condo complex was built in 1961 on a secluded one‐acre lot in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood, near downtown Palm Springs.

Distinctive folded‐plate roofs, arched clerestory windows, and decorative rock walls make Merito Manor a modernist standout. Set your own pace on this self‐guided tour; homeowners and docents will be on site to answer questions.

In 'Honey, I'm Back! MORE Classic Television Residences as Never Before Seen,' presenter Marina Coates brings her architectural background and 3D graphics talents together in a unique video program, following the success of her 2024 presentation.

 

Fridays on the Homefront
Merito Manor: designed by architect Barry Alan Berkus, a ten‐unit condo complex from 1961 in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood.

This year Coates escorts guests through the homes of 'The Munsters,' 'The Andy Griffith Show,' 'Frasier,' the 'Bob Newhart Show.' It will also feature the Connecticut home of the Ricardos with the return of 'I Love Lucy,' and a world premiere tour of the home of 'Laverne & Shirley.'

One of the many delights of Modernism Week is driving through Palm Springs at night. This edition of Modernism Week marks the 13th year of illuminating architecturally significant buildings of the town.

For the evening tour, enjoy a twilight double decker bus that departs just as the sun sets behind Mt. San Jacinto to appreciate the specially designed lighting on 13 of Palm Springs' most interesting buildings. Afterwards, guests will be invited into the Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar for complimentary cocktails and appetizers.


Fridays on the Homefront
'Honey, I'm Back': video program celebrating classic television residences from the mid‐century.

As with everything else that makes Modernism Week unique, preservationists and organizers have come up with creative ways to present architecture like never before. Realized in an inviting desert setting, it's little wonder why this annual symposium continues to attract visitors internationally.

A portion of the festival's ticket proceeds benefit Modernism Week (a non‐profit organization) and other Palm Springs preservation, neighborhood, and community groups.