Looking for interesting midcentury public building interiors

Question

We are doing a self guided mid century homes tour (which appears to be driving or biking around on our own). I would love to see the interiors of homes but the only tour I found is sold out (my understanding is the annual homes tour is really the best time to see them and we won't be there then). And I would have liked to see the Elvis house tour but that seems to be gone.

So while we are driving/biking around to see exteriors are there any interiors of public buildings that are particularly interesting and worth going in to? Thanks

Answer

Palm Springs is a treasure trove of mid-century modern architecture, and while many of the iconic homes are private, there are several public buildings and spaces where you can admire interiors that reflect the mid-century aesthetic. Even outside of the annual home tours, you can experience notable design elements in a few accessible locations.

Public buildings and interiors worth visiting:

Palm Springs City Hall: This mid-century modern civic building features clean lines, open spaces, and period lighting. The lobby and main meeting areas retain original design elements.
Palm Springs Art Museum: The main museum has undergone renovations but still showcases mid-century architectural influences in its design and galleries. The sculpture garden is also a highlight.
Sunmor Estates (if open for public events): Some corporate or civic mid-century office buildings occasionally allow visitors during open houses or events. Check local schedules.
Palm Springs Public Library: The library’s architecture includes mid-century lines and interior features like wood paneling and geometric lighting.
Classic Hotels and Lounges: Many public areas of mid-century hotels such as the Ace Hotel, Parker Palm Springs, and Kimpton Rowan showcase original or restored interiors, including lobbies, bars, and restaurants that reflect the era’s design style.

Tips for a self-guided tour:

Call ahead or check online to confirm which public buildings are open to visitors and have notable mid-century interiors.
Plan your route to combine outdoor exterior views of famous homes with public interior visits to get a broader sense of the style.
Consider stopping at mid-century inspired cafes or hotels, as even the interior design of restaurants and lounges often captures the period aesthetic.

Even without access to private homes, Palm Springs offers many opportunities to experience mid-century modern interiors in public spaces, hotels, and civic buildings. Combining these visits with your driving or biking tour of exteriors will give a comprehensive sense of the city’s iconic design heritage.

Looking for interesting midcentury public building interiors

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