Join us for a fascinating discussion led by author and historian Steven M. Price about Desert Regency Architecture and all its grandeur.

Hollywood Regency architecture emerged from the glamour of the silver screen in the 1940s, blending French, English Regency and Greco-Roman influences into a style of theatrical elegance. Connoting culture, sophistication and affluence, it became hugely popular in residences, hotels and fashionable businesses before declining in the 1970s with the rise of Postmodernism.

The Palm Springs area frequently looked to Hollywood for design inspiration, embracing Hollywood Regency alongside Midcentury Modernism and the Ranch style. in the 1950s and '60s houses, country clubs and condominium colonies adopted and adapted its distinctive vocabulary to desert environs. Surprisingly resilient, Hollywood Regency roared back into fashion in the early 2000s—and many of its treasures remain hidden in plain sight. Here, we reveal where you'll find them.

Photo Credits: D Toltzmann, Steven M. Price

Location & Attendee Information

  • What are the appropriate ages for this activity?Person All ages
  • Are pets, animals, or service animals permitted?Dog on a leash No pets, service animals permitted
  • What type of parking is available?Car Free neighborhood street parking
  • Is photography permitted?Camera Photography permitted
  • Are restrooms available?Restroom sign Restrooms available
  • Is this an indoor or outdoor activity?Sun Indoor activity
  • What is the policy regarding smoking?Cigarette with smoke No smoking or e-cigarettes
  • What type of ADA accessibility is available?Wheelchair Wheelchair accommodations available
The organizer of this event is: Historical Society of Palm Desert

View more Presentations, Live Talks and Films

Even More To Do At Modernism Week

Presentations, Live Talks and FilmsEvent Category Presentations, Live Talks and Films

Big Sur Modern and Bruce Goff's Influence: The Oklahoma Tradition of Organic Architecture on the California Coast

Big Sur's coveted architect, Mickey Muennig, blended his background in aeronautical engineering with lessons from Organic Architect Bruce Goff to reshape the rugged California coast in the 1970s–90s.

Browse Activities By Category