Modernism Week 2026 takes place February 12-22, 2026 in Palm Springs, the epicenter of midcentury art, architecture, and culture. Activities include home and neighborhood architecture tours, bus tours, art shows, shopping, film premiers, as well as engaging talks and presentations. In addition you’ll find food, cocktails, live music, and evening entertainment. Browse all 2026 activities, purchase tickets, and plan your Modernism Week today.
PRESENTATIONS
Designing Dreams, Driving Desire: The Rise of Industrial Design in Midcentury America and GM’s Defining Influence
Discover post-war America’s Industrial Design rise—driven by GM’s influence and the cross-disciplinary creativity that powered this bold, emerging profession.
Before Industrial Design became a specialized profession, visionary creators worked across disciplines with remarkable freedom—designing everything from cars and radios to appliances, architecture and exhibits.
This presentation offers a visual feast of bold renderings, futuristic prototypes and immersive spectacles—like GM’s legendary “Futurama” and the “Kitchen of Tomorrow”—that captured the public imagination and reshaped everyday life. Discover how artistry, ingenuity and fearless cross-disciplinary thinking not only fueled innovation, but also helped define the look and spirit of post-war American modern life.
Susan Skarsgard is an internationally recognized Detroit-based designer and artist. During her 25 years at General Motors Design, she created iconic vehicle emblems and lettering; ultimately establishing the GM Design Archive & Special Collections—the corporation’s first dedicated repository for the history of design at General Motors.
Her extensive research into the architectural and cultural legacy of the General Motors Technical Center culminated in the publication of Where Today Meets Tomorrow: Eero Saarinen and the General Motors Technical Center (Princeton Architectural Press), recipient of the 2020 Michigan Notable Book Award; also featured in Architectural Digest. Following the presentation will be a book signing.
Small Towns + Great Architecture: Modernism’s Untold Stories
Discover the surprising architectural riches of 3 unlikely small American towns: Palm Springs, California; Sarasota, Florida; Columbus, Indiana.
Discover the surprising architectural riches of three unlikely American towns: Palm Springs, California; Sarasota, Florida; and Columbus, Indiana. With populations of just 50,000, each has become a world-renowned showcase of innovative design—far outpacing what their size might suggest.
What sparked these architectural renaissances? Who were the visionaries—developers, architects, builders, and clients—behind the masterpieces? How do these communities honor, celebrate, and safeguard their built legacies while shaping their futures?
In this captivating symposium, leading experts from each city will share vivid stories, rare insights, and the pivotal moments that put their towns on the design map. Discover the creative forces and community spirit that drew top architects seeking to reimagine the very landscape of American small towns with ground-breaking residential and civic projects.
Moderator: Katie Horak, Principal, Architectural Resource Group
Panelists: Richard McCoy (Executive Director Landmark Columbus Foundation, Columbus Indiana), Alan Hess (Architect, Author, Historian, Palm Springs Architectural Alliance, Palm Springs California), Morris (Marty) Hylton, III (President, Architecture Sarasota, Sarasota Florida)
Highlights include: Exclusive behind-the-scenes perspectives from experts. Exploration of shared movements, and distinct approaches to modern architecture, preservation, and the future. Wisdom and inspiration for the next generation of stewards and city-shapers
Join us to uncover the lessons, inspirations, and bold visions that continue to shape these extraordinary communities—and see how the legacy of great architecture is carried forward for generations to come. Book signings will take place after the event concludes.
Presented by Palm Springs Architectural Alliance. A portion of ticket sales supports the mission of PSAA. psarchitecturalalliance.org
Smoky Mountain Modern: The Architecture of Hubert Bebb
A nostalgic look at Modernist motels, restaurants, and attractions in the Smoky Mountain resort town of Gatlinburg, TN depicted in postcards and other ephemera as they appeared in the mid-20th century.
February 13
The Weird and Wonderful World of Industrial Musicals
An astonishing look at the secret corporate musical theater we were never meant to see—via bizarrely funny vintage film clips presented by Letterman Show and The Simpsons writer Steve Young!
February 13, 14
Designing the Desert, and Other Landscapes: The Architecture of Paul R. Williams
The first Black architect to practice in the western U.S., Paul R. Williams’ groundbreaking architecture left an indelible impact. Getty curators preview exhibitions marking his archive’s public debut.
February 14
Modeline of California: The Birth of Modern Lighting
Nick Ferrell presents materials from his new book Modeline of California: Pioneer of Modern Lighting and discusses the process of unearthing the once-lost history of the Modern lighting industry.
February 14
A Place in the Sun: Restoring the 1929 Neutra Lovell Health House
Frank Escher & Ravi Gune Wardena, restoration architects for the Lovell Health House, and architectural historian, Dr. Barbara Lamprecht, will discuss the restoration of Neutra’s 1929 masterpiece.
February 14
Steel, Structure and Ambition: The Hyperbolic Paraboloid Takes Shape in the Coachella Valley
The hyperbolic paraboloid, one iconic shape, deployed by three different architects in three different cities, illustrates the synchronicity of Coachella Valley’s Modernism.
February 14
Total Design–Miller House and Garden, Columbus, Indiana
The 1957 Miller House and Garden is one of the most iconic examples of Total Modern Design. Architecture by Eero Saarinen, interiors by Alexander Girard and gardens by Dan Kiley.
February 15
Eventually Everything Connects: Reframing Midcentury Modern Design
Join Cranbrook Art Museum curators in exploring the dynamic networks of people, ideas and objects that make midcentury Modern design so long lastingly captivating.
February 15
Desert Utopia: Oases of the Future in the Landscape of the Past
Architectural historian Luke Leuschner presents a utopian history of the Coachella Valley’s architecture and urbanism, from early 20th-century Bohemian colonies to Modernist country clubs.
February 15
The Palm Springs Look: What’s Next in Desert Decorating
The Palm Springs Look is growing up. Three top interior designers from the new book Inside Palm Springs discuss why Palm Springs has become one of the most exciting, creative design labs in the worl
February 15
Exiled in L.A.: The Untold Story of Leopold Fischer, Émigré Architect in Southern California
The story of Leopold Fischer, a student of Austrian Modernist Adolf Loos, who practiced in Los Angeles alongside Rudolf Schindler and Richard Neutra, but is unknown to architectural history.
February 16
We Live Modern–The Evolution of the Czech Modernist House
Adam Štěch on the evolution of Czech Modernism, from avant-garde Cubism to Art Deco, to Functionalist designs of the 1920s–1930s, and the impact of World War II followed by Communist dictatorship.
February 16
Material Curiosity by Design: Evelyn and Jerome Ackerman from Midcentury to Today
Laura Ackerman-Shaw explores the vibrant designs of her parents, Evelyn and Jerome Ackerman, pioneers of the California midcentury Modern aesthetic, and their impact on post-war design and décor
February 16
Montevideo Modernism
Montevideo Modernism is a multi-day event of symposia and tours of Modernist architecture in and around the capital of Uruguay, Montevideo, scheduled for April 2026.
February 16
Gio Ponti: From Milan to the World–The Rise of Italian Modernism
Explore Gio Ponti, the visionary polymath behind the rise of Italian Modernism, whose innovative and elegant designs forged a global legacy inspiring architects, designers and enthusiasts worldwide.
February 16
Film: “Unforgettable Montevideo: When Cities Forget–The Global Battle for Architectural Heritage”
Montevideo Modernism is a multi-day event of symposia and tours of Modernist architecture in and around the capital of Uruguay, Montevideo, scheduled for April 2026.
February 16
Film–”The Fifth Wall: The Edward Fields Story”
This compelling documentary depicts the life and legacy of Edward Fields, the visionary who elevated carpets from simple floor coverings to bespoke works of art, reshaping American interior design.
February 16
From St. Louis to Palm Springs. Grace Lewis Miller, Richard Neutra and the Intriguing Story of Their 1937 Miller/Mensendieck House
In July 1936, Grace Lewis Miller–recently widowed mother, socialite and Mensendieck instructor, drove to Palm Springs. Within one month she commissioned Richard Neutra to design her house/studio.
February 17
Landscapes for Leisure: Modernist Design in the Coachella Valley’s Desert Playground
Architectural historian Steven Keylon explores the rich history of the designed landscape of the Coachella Valley during the 20th century.
February 17
Learning from Linksland: Golf’s Migration from Scotland to the Coachella Valley
Golf began on the windswept coast of Scotland and migrated around the world to diverse landscapes including the Coachella Valley desert. This talk explores the changes wrought in that migration.
February 17
Let’s Go to the Fair! Futurama 1964 and the World of Tomorrow
See how designers in the past imagined the future at General Motor’s Futurama Pavillion for the 1964 World’s Fair in New York.
February 17
Honey, Let’s Go to the Movies! Classic Film Residences as Never Before Seen
After two sell-out architectural tours of TV homes, Marina Coates now escorts us through film homes—and interior design will share the focus. This seven-home program includes three in Palm Springs!
February 17
Designing at the Intersection of Architecture, Landscape and Culture
From dense urban centers to remote coastal landscapes, Susan T Rodriguez will discuss creating architecture that is fused with its surroundings and the natural world.
February 17
Home Movie Jukebox with Deserted Films
Back by audience demand! Join Palm Springs’ own Deserted Films, your local home movie nerds, for a new, informative and hilarious supercut of clips from their vast collection of 8mm, Super 8, and 16.
February 17, 21
Before and After: A Designer’s Own Modernist Renovation from a Purist Perspective
A 1972 Modernist home renovation, shared from a purist’s perspective with insights into philosophy, process and interior selections uniting MCM authenticity, 70s glamour and contemporary living.
February 18
Contested Memory, Contested Ground: BBPR “Monument for the Fallen in Germany’s Nazi Concentration Camps” 1946
The 1945 BBPR memorial’s abstract geometric form commemorating victims of fascism simultaneously proposed “continuity” with the formal aspects of Modern architecture designed under Italian fascism.
February 18
Saving Fallingwater: The Preservation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1935 Organic Masterpiece
This year marks not only Fallingwater’s 90th anniversary but the completion of a 3-year comprehensive project that will ensure the house’s preservation for years to come.
February 18
Revealing a Modern Masterpiece: The Story of the Undiscovered Frank House
Gropius and Breuer built their most important residence as a total work of art integrating architecture, furnishings and landscape. The owner offers a look at this stunning, undiscovered masterpiece.
February 18
California Cool: Explore Palm Springs and Beyond Through the Modern Paintings of Danny Heller
Marvel at swaying palm trees, shimmering swimming pools, atomic architecture, and colorful classic cars as artist Danny Heller takes you on a road trip through his retro-focused paintings.
February 18
Special Event: 2026 World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize Ceremony
For the first time outside of New York City, World Monuments Fund and Modernism Week are partnering to present the prestigious 2026 World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize ceremony.
February 18
Endangered Modernism: 35 Years of Protecting Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architecture
Highlighting the Modern architecture protected by the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy including the Price Tower (Bartlesville, OK) and the Grace and Joseph Jacob Walser, Jr. House (Chicago).
February 19
Aqua Modern: Indoor & Outdoor Pools of the Catskills
Join photographer Isaac Jeffreys as he illuminates historic Catskills resort pools at night, bridging past and present in a visual journey of midcentury Modern glamour and American leisure.
February 19
Modernism in Brazil: Connections Among Niemeyer, Bo Bardi, Burle Marx and Rodrigues
Discover the drama and brilliance of Brazilian Modernism woven through the lives and works of Oscar Niemeyer, Lina Bo Bardi, Roberto Burle Marx and Sergio Rodrigues, presented by Jonathan Durling.
February 19
New Modernism Narratives: Conserving Modernist Architecture in Africa
World Monuments Fund’s recent Modernism projects in Africa address the relationship between the narratives associated with these sites and their need for documentation and conservation. 1–2 PM
February 19
Rooted in Time, Racing Against It: Living Collections at Historic Sites–A Case Study of Sunnylands
Historic landscapes are more than just beautiful settings. They’re expressions of cultural and personal history, but what happens when their living elements begin to age or become unsustainable?
February 21
Richard Neutra’s Quest for a ‘Planetary Platform’ and the Lovell Health House as Global Media Project
Historian Edward Dimendberg, editor of the book, Richard Neutra and the Making of the Lovell Health House, 1925-35, explores the architect’s mastery of journalism, photography and global media.
February 21
From Inspiration to Innovation: Four Contemporary Masters Shaping the Future of Desert Modern Architecture
Join contemporary master architects Barbara Bestor, Sean Lockyer, Leo Marmol and Lance O’Donnell discussing how desert Modern architecture influenced their work and where it’s headed.
February 21
Hollywood Meets the Palm Springs Plaza Theatre: A Multimedia Journey
An Enchanting Multimedia Experience Celebrating the Historic Plaza Theater, Palm Springs History and the Silver Screen.
February 20
Charles Phoenix: Grand Tour of Europe in the 50s & 60s–A Midcentury Dream Vacation Slide Show Travelogue
“Fasten Your seatbelts and prepare for takeoff!” says Retro Pop Culture expert, Charles Phoenix, as he launches the classic European vacation into a fun, festive extravaganza!
February 14
This Is Your Life, Nelda Linsk!
Nelda Linsk, First Lady of Modernism Week, will be honored with this special Annenberg presentation, This is Your Life, Nelda Linsk!
February 19
Charles Phoenix: The Great American Retro Road Trip. A Midcentury Travelogue Tour Across the USA
“Buckle up, sit back and enjoy the scenery!” Retro Pop Culture expert, Charles Phoenix, takes his audience on a colorful classic slide show road trip extravaganza across Midcentury America!
February 21
Keynote Presentation: Elizabeth Diller, Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R)
Modernism Week is honored to welcome architect Elizabeth Diller, a founding partner of Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS+R), as the keynote presenter for 2026.
February 14
Modernism and the Future of Housing: A Symposium
Experts revisit the architectural innovations that defined early Modern housing as a springboard for reflections on contemporary projects and the future of Modern housing, with optional home tour.Multiple Ticket types available (3-6 hrs)
February 21, 21
All Access: Annenberg Presentation Series, Films and Event Pass
Enjoy general admission access without the hassle of booking individual tickets to all 31 MW Annenberg Presentations, Films and Events for 8 days. Limited number of passes available.
February 13
Sold out
Desert Modernism 101: From Bauhaus to Our House
Enjoy an informative and entertaining look at the principles of design that rocked the world of architecture in post-war America. Sold out two years in a row—secure your tickets today!
February 13
Sold out
Discovering Our Modern Modernists
Modernism Week invites you as our guests to a special pre-tour preview presentation on Palm Springs’ five vibrant Art Districts—each one a living archive of color, clarity and curated rebellion.
February 15
Sold out
100 Years of Route 66: California’s Midcentury Icons
Take a look at the Mother Road’s beloved midcentury landmarks as we celebrate 100 years of Route 66. Join Barkev Msrlyan from Merch Motel for a ride through California’s roadside relics.
February 15, 18
Sold out
The Elrod House: A Deep Dive
The Elrod House, a masterly collaboration between architect John Lautner and interior designer Arthur Elrod, is emerging from a restoration that has re-energized this beacon of Palm Springs Modernism.
February 15
Sold out
Architects of Illusion: The Curious Marriage of Modernism and Magic
Prepare to be amazed, inspired, and delighted as the boundaries between design and illusion dissolve. An audience immersive event led by acclaimed magician and storyteller Andy Cohen.
February 15, 19
Sold out
Stories Untold–Rebuilding Futures: Japanese American Designers in the Wake of Internment
Despite facing forced internment in the midcentury period, many Japanese Americans excelled in the fields of architecture and design, greatly shaping the legacy of Modernism as we know it.
February 16
Sold out
Canyon Country Club: History and Design of Palm Springs’ Garden of Eden
Palm Springs Preservation Foundation board member Steve Treinen presents Canyon Country Club’s social and architectural history through vintage and contemporary imagery.
February 18
Sold out
The Restoration and Rebirth of Albert Frey’s Bel Vista: The Earliest Modern Tract in Palm Springs
Todd Hays and William LaVoie tell the restoration story of Frey’s 1946 Bel Vista Tract, including a not-to-miss computer recreation drive-through of Bel Vista as it appeared 78 years ago.
February 18
Sold out
Birth of the Cool
Join Tracy Conrad as she traces the evolution of cool in Palm Springs through pictures of the nightclubs, music, architecture and celebrities that defined the town in the 1940s and 50s.
February 18
Sold out
Quirks Kitsch Curiosities: 100 Years of Palm Springs Eccentricity
Palm Springs has a rich history of nurturing the quirky and the curious. This program celebrates hidden, overlooked, obscure, and often, better-off forgotten moments from this city’s eccentric past.
February 18
Sold out
Midcoast Modern: Renegade Architects on the Big Sur Coast in the 1950s–70s
In the land of Steinbeck, maverick architects of the 1950s–70s pioneered a hands-on Modernism rooted in nature and adapted to the wild landscape of the Big Sur Coast.
February 19
Sold out
Film: Special Screening of “Poolside Gossip, More Than a Photograph”
This rarely screened film captures in Nelda Linsk’s own words the amusing details of Slim Aaron’s 1970 photograph, Poolside Gossip. Q&A and a meet & greet follows the film.
February 21
Sold out