Living The Best Life, Poolside in Palm Springs

When A-listers and rising stars first began retreating to Palm Springs in the 1920s, they realized this sunny corner of paradise was missing just one thing, somewhere to cool off. Cue the introduction of the swimming pool, the perfect complement to the dry desert heat and palm tree framed mountain views. The concept spread fast and by the late 1950’s this hidden town had the highest count of pools per capita, reaching 1 pool for every 6 residents. Lounging around the pool was no longer just a pastime, it became the Palm Springs lifestyle.

As the pool scene became a central draw, many of the architecturally significant homes that have given Palm Springs its acclaim, were designed around the pool. Our portfolio was thoughtfully selected to have the best pools in Palm Springs — many designed by some of the most influential and gifted architects of the mid-century modern movement. Each pool is unique and in harmony with the surrounding geography, with personalities as individual as the architects who imagined them and the icons that frequented them. Come experience the Palm Springs lifestyle as it was intended, poolside from one of these 7 remarkable custom homes.

Skyfall

One could argue the expression “feeling on top of the world” was derived after a visit to Skyfall, the 2,800 sq. ft. structural masterpiece elegantly constructed to fit the rocky contours of the Cahuilla Hills Mountainside. The large circular pool and spa with circular roof opening, offering jetliner views of the valley below and the stars above, was the focal point of architect, R. Denzil Lee’s 1963 design. He used curved-glass walls along the perimeter of the pool to seamlessly blend the outdoor living space with the indoors. A paragon of mid-century modern architecture and design, Skyfall preserves the authenticity of the decade with thoughtfully selected furnishings and art, such as the Yellow Submarine mural found in the living room.

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Villa Sierra

A mid-century home with modern appeal, Villa Sierra has seen its share of Instagram-era fame with features in HGTV, Desert Sun and Conde Nast Traveler. The sprawling 5,300 square-foot ranch pays homage to the iconic desert architecture for which Palm Spring is known, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the surrounding mountains and manicured grounds lined with towering palm trees. Relax in the shaded cabana by the 75 ft. pool, surrounded by a lush, green wall for privacy, or take in the views from the connected hot tub and tanning shelf. A built-in BBQ area, poolside bar and chic outdoor seating create the perfect setting for an entertaining night with friends.

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On the Rocks

A defining example of modern hillside architecture, On the Rocks was originally designed in 1959 by famed architect Hugh Kaptur and expanded and renovated by modern architect James Schmidt. While its original composition was kept intact, modern features, clean designs, and custom-made accents were incorporated to complement the distinct desert geography and color palette. Its position high in the hillside of the Mesa Neighborhood provides unsurpassed 200-degree views of three mountain ranges and the Palm Springs' cityscape from glass walls and enlarged outdoor patio. Meticulously designed to perfection, the outdoor living space boasts luxury amenities, including an outdoor bar, fire-pit, and movie projector, all centered around the striking infinity-edged saline pool and built-in spa.

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Frank Sinatra's Twin Palms Estate

Two palm trees, the largest in the valley, stand tall above Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate —the leading example of mid-century modernism among the 200 famed homes that comprise the ‘Movie Colony.’ While simplistically designed by E. Stewart Williams in 1947, the walls hold lavish stories of celebrity gatherings, romance and despair, and the highly-celebrated cocktail hour. Some elements of this 4,500 sq. ft estate have been restored with vintage designer furnishings, but many of Sinatra’s signature details have been preserved, including the original sound and recording system and one-of-a-kind piano shaped pool. Whether or not it was intentional in its design, some guests say that when the suns hits the walkway canopy just right, the shadows create the illusion of piano keys over the pool.

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Kir Royale

Stretching over 4,200 sq ft into the ridgeside of the San Jacinto Mountains, Kir Royale may seem like the home that has it all, and we can assure you it does. Every luxury amenity in this modified mid-century oasis has been considered -- from the layout of the outdoor/indoor living spaces and private yoga and meditation room to the custom-made furnishings and upscale appliances. In the center of the expansive outdoor living area is the crystal-clear salt water pool, with private access offered from each bedroom of the house, including the self-contained casita. A misting system provides an instant cool down and a tanning shelf ensures you return home with that coveted California sun kissed glow.

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Villa Moda

Evocative of the Palm Springs historic Viceroy Hotel, Villa Moda combines the charm of the classic Hollywood Regency aesthetic with the boldness and opulence of modern technology and interior design. Originally built in 1957, this mid-century modern home has been reimagined for ultimate relaxation. Spend summer days stretched out in designer chaise lounge chairs around the pool, or partake in a leisurely game of shuffleboard on the private court. Conclude your evenings with a barbecue under the stars or a soak in the spa.

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