11 Celebrity Homes That Showcase Desert Modernism in Rancho Mirage
Until 1951 when the Thunderbird Country Club opened its doors in Rancho Mirage, California, the sleepy desert town a few miles east of Palm Springs had been pretty much barren desert. However, the arrival of the first 18-hole golf course in the desert would bring major changes—and herald in an era of new, luxurious living for the town.
Soon, Rancho Mirage was forever changed, with properties selling to stars such as Bing Crosby, Lucille Ball, and Desi Arnaz—and even Frank Sinatra, who relocated to Rancho Mirage from Palm Springs in 1954. The legendary Marx Brothers cofounded Tamarisk Country Club, and the midcentury modern vacation homes that lined the fairways became a glimpse into the "good life"—and a sumptuous slice of American resort style.
Simultaneously, midcentury modernism was reaching the height of its popularity, and since most of these desert homes were second or seasonal, it was only natural that the architecture leaned towards the more decadent. Leading modernist architects such as A. Quincy Jones, Wexler & Harrison, E. Stewart William, William Pereira, William F. Cody, and Wallace Neff all designed lavish homes for clients with deep pockets—many of them celebrities—and the resulting residences were some of the desert's finest.
Mod Mirage, a new book by Melissa Riche, lovingly details the rich history of Rancho Mirage, and takes a look at its fabulous architecture. Here we have chosen some of our favorite homes with an all-star pedigree.
Sunnylands, the Annenberg Estate by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons
Sunnylands, the Annenberg estate, was designed by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons for Walter and Leonore Annenberg—who were major influencers in their time. Friends with presidents, royalty, and more, Annenberg was heir to his father's publishing business, served as U.S. Ambassador to the UK, and later became famous along with his wife for their philanthropy.
The Maranz Residence by Val Powelson
The Charney Residence by Wexler & Harrison Architects
The Firestone Residence by William Pereira
In the early 1950s, the work of architect William Pereira was all over Los Angeles. When Pereira was given the chance to design a home for Leonard Firestone, the head of the Firestone company, and former U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, the architect selected high-quality, commercial-grade materials and finishes which have subsequently withstood the test of time. According to Riche, if the home were built today to the same standards, it would cost $15 million.
The Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz Residence by Paul R. Williams
Jeff Chandler Residence, Architect Unknown
Harry Tugend Residence by William Krisel
Bing Crosby's Home, Architect Unknown
Bing Crosby was an original investor in Thunderbird Country Club. Instead of choosing a lot on the golf course, he was one of the first to purchase at Thunderbird Ranch Estates (now Thunderbird Heights) on the hill overlooking the greens. The house was a modest ranch home with board-and-batten wood siding and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the valley. Rancho Mirage wasn't incorporated until 1973, so the entire area was referred to as "Palm Springs."
Frank Sinatra's Home by William F. Cody
In 1954, shortly after Sinatra and Ava Gardner divorced, he bought an existing home located at Tamarisk Country Club. The modest, long-gable home was designed by William F. Cody and featured a rough stone entrance and clapboard siding. Sinatra added to the home over time—notoriously in the 1960s for Kennedy’s secret service men.
The Dillman Residence by Charles Barlund
Blue Skies Trailer Village by William F. Cody
Shop
Published
Get the Dwell Newsletter
Be the first to see our latest home tours, design news, and more.