Modernism Week - Palm Springs
Last month I made my annual trek to Palm Springs for Modernism Week. What is Modernism Week? It’s a celebration of midcentury art, design, and architecture and has been held annually for almost the last 20 years. One of my favorite things to do during Modernism Week is to tour the many homes open to the public. Each year, there are “Featured Homes” that have been restored or reimagined. Often, the designers team up with sponsors to showcase products throughout the homes. Think of it as influencer marketing: brands gain visibility, designers get exposure, and homeowners benefit from sponsored upgrades. It’s a win/win.
THE WEST HOUSE
The West House, named after its previous owner, Adam West, was originally built in 1954 and later remodeled by famed architect Albert Frey. This year, Michelle Boudreau Design took the reins and gave the home a fresh transformation for Modernism Week 2025. Showcased as one of the year’s “Featured Homes,” the residence honors its architectural roots while pushing the design forward. Textured curves, natural stone, and bold forms nod to Frey’s aesthetic. Inside, the palette of warm white oak adds comfort and richness throughout the space.
The West House is located in Old Las Palmas—one of Palm Springs’ most iconic neighborhoods—and served as a getaway for Adam West, best known as the original “Batman.” It’s only fitting that this stunning renovation carries his name.
THE WEST HOUSE - living spaces
From the street, the home presents a clean, modest facade. But as you make your way up the walk, the drama begins to unfold. The front entrance is tucked mid-lot on the side of the home, creating a sense of discovery. A peaceful water feature welcomes visitors before arriving at the full-glass front door, where a black Batman insignia sits front and center—a subtle tribute to Adam West.
Inside, layered textures and architectural detailing define the living spaces. Fluted and reeded surfaces in various scales create visual rhythm. Warm white oak meets cool gray-veined marble for a mix of earthy and elegant. The showpiece? A custom built-in entertainment wall that feels as functional as it is stylish, with perforated doors, slanted shelving, and a dedicated spot for the record player.
THE WEST HOUSE - guest quarters
In the guest spaces, a strong geometric theme runs through the artwork, tile, wallcoverings, and upholstery. The repetition of shape and line brings consistency and a unifying force to each room.
The bedrooms are wrapped in textured grasscloth, bordered with half-round trim that creates an elegant paneled wall. It’s a refined detail that adds both depth and texture to the guest suites.
THE WEST HOUSE PRIMARY SUITE
The palette and finishes from the main living areas continue into the primary suite, ensuring a seamless visual transition. Fluted plaster, white oak, and natural textures carry through, but with a twist. Soft sage is added to the color story, adding a calm, refreshing, spa-like feel to the space.
Just like in the living room, the custom built-ins feature large-scale perforated door fronts. It’s a smart design callback that ties the home together.
The West House Kitchen
The kitchen is defined by beautifully crafted rift-sawn white oak cabinetry. Overscale perforated cabinet fronts add an unexpected design twist. The light stone countertops and full backsplash keep the space airy and open.
Above the Monogram professional range, a fluted plaster range hood makes a bold impact. Below, terrazzo flooring with large aggregate gives the space texture and depth. Mixed-metal finishes—from brass hardware to matte black fixtures—bring it all home with a modern, elevated touch.
Dining Room
The matte black elements from the kitchen carry over into the dining room, helping to ground the space. Together, the black accents create contrast and continuity.
The West House - Back Yard
We visited The West House on a picture-perfect February day. The skies were clear, the sun was shining, and the palm trees swayed gently over the pristine backyard. A sparkling pool and spa created the ultimate Palm Springs escape. But our favorite detail? The putting green—a playful yet practical touch that every spacious desert yard should have.
The West House was thoughtfully redesigned that honored the past but with today's modern amenities. I really enjoyed exploring the house and soaking in all the details. There were so many details - something that every interior design like myself find endless amounts of inspiration.
If you've never been to Modernism Week before, there is a smaller version in the fall and then it will return for the full edition in February 2026.
