South Palm Canyond Drive in Palm Springs, CA with palm trees and Modernism Week banner

The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation will host a tour of the stunning James Logan Abernathy Residence, designed by Modernist architect William F. Cody in 1962.

Usually only seen on small and exclusive architectural tours, the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation is proud to make the Abernathy Residence available to a broader audience. Designed by midcentury architect William F. Cody for millionaire socialite James Logan Abernathy in 1962, the 4,680 square foot pavilion-style house has been featured in numerous shelter magazines and is prominently featured in Master of the Midcentury: The Architecture of William F. Cody. Through the efforts of the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation the residence was designated a Class 1 Historic Site by the city of Palm Springs in February of 2013. Tourgoers will receive an eight-page color collectible handout.

Abernathy Residence “Vernissage”: In the tradition of 19th century European Art Salons, at 10AM a very limited number of guests will get an exclusive, and unhurried, first look at the historic Abernathy Residence. This special access will include a tour of the home, narrated by a knowledgeable PSPF board member, which discusses the home’s architecture and incredibly varied midcentury decorative arts. The in-depth tour will end at the pool pavillion (designed by local architect Lance O’Donnell) where guests will be treated to a non-alcoholic refreshment.

The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is “to educate and promote public awareness of the importance of preserving the historical resources and architecture of the city of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley area.” PSPF offers free membership as a public benefit. To learn more about the work of the foundation see www.pspreservationfoundation.org.

Photo Credits: John Lewis Marshall, Palm Springs Preservation Foundation, Mood Creative

Location & Attendee Information

  • What are the appropriate ages for this activity?Person No children
  • Are pets, animals, or service animals permitted?Dog on a leash Pets and animals not permitted
  • Are food and drinks permitted?Food and drink No food or drinks permitted in homes
  • What are the mobility considerations for this activity?Person walking Walking activity with exterior and/or interior steps
  • What type of parking is available?Car Free neighborhood street parking
  • What is the policy for personal effects?Bag or purse Large purses, bags, backpacks discouraged
  • Is photography permitted?Camera Photography not permitted
  • Are restrooms available?Restroom sign Restrooms not available
  • Is this an indoor or outdoor activity?Sun Indoor and outdoor activity
  • What is the policy regarding smoking?Cigarette with smoke No smoking or e-cigarettes
  • What type of tour is this?Group of people Interior/exterior tour
The organizer of this event is: Palm Springs Preservation Foundation

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