West of Old Las Palmas is a neighborhood best known for its collection of modernist desert homes that represent the best of indoor and outdoor living in Palm Springs.
Welcome to Vistas Las Palmas. One of the most desirable places to live in the city, the community is widely regarded as one of the most preferred hideaways in the Coachella Valley. Many Hollywood A-lister homes grace mid-century modern aesthetic, with most of the residences in the neighborhood built in the same period. Walking in the streets of Vista Las Palmas will feel like you’ve been transported back to the 1950s.
Vista Las Palmas’ unique homes, pleasant desert climate, and stunning locale has also made the community a popular feature on numerous TV shows, magazines, and documentaries. Most of these productions highlight the mid-century architecture prevalent throughout the neighborhood. Despite all of these, Vista Las Palmas’ has retained its family-friendly appeal, attracting a variety of real estate investors to the area.
History of Vista Las Palmas
Vista Las Palmas and the role it played on Palm Springs’ mid-century modern movement can be traced back to the late 1950s. Father-and-son duo George and Robert Alexander of the Alexander Construction Company began to develop the area as Las Palmas Estates.
George and Robert Alexander hired William Krisel and Charles Dubois, two of the most prominent mid-century modern architects of the time, to design over 300 homes that will make the most out of Vista Las Palmas’ location at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains.
Soon after, Vista Las Palmas became one of the Rat Pack’s favorite haunts, with famous personalities such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Elvis and Priscilla Presley often seen in the neighborhood. Other celebrities, like Marilyn Monroe, Dinah Shore, and Dean Martin followed suit.
Real estate and property types in Vista Las Palmas
Mid-century modern homes that beautifully incorporate Palm Springs’ desert environment abound in Vista Las Palmas. There are approximately 370 of these residences in the neighborhood, most of which were developed by the Alexanders and designed by Charles Dubois or William Krisel.
Homes designed by Krisel in particular feature delicate and simple modern lines, open floor plans, and breezeways that connect the outdoors to the indoors. Although plans (which come in either L or V shapes) were predominantly uniform, Krisel added variety by using a plethora of materials for the facades, from wooden or concrete block screens to brick walls.
Mid-century modern might be the quintessential architectural style in Vista Las Palmas, but there are more options in the neighborhood. Traditional ranch homes and Swiss Miss-style residences with their steep gables (designed by Dubois and J.C. Dunas) can also be found throughout the community.
Vista Los Palmas has been the subject of renewed interest over the years, with many investors falling in love with what the community is originally known for. As a result, plenty of homes in the neighborhood have been restored and updated with modern amenities and features.
Living in Vista Las Palmas
- Minutes away from downtown Palm Springs – One of Vista Las Palmas’ primary draws is its convenient location, with the downtown district being roughly a 2-3 minute drive away.
- Immersive modern experience – The Rat Pack’s favored playground is the perfect place for getting away from fast-paced lifestyles. Vista Las Palmas’s streets are quiet and ideal for long walks, while residents have formed a tight-knit community.
- Outstanding restaurants – Wining and dining is easy, with plenty of choices located near Vista Las Palmas. Local favorites include Joey, Rooster and the Pig, Kiyosaku, 55 3 Viet-Fusion, The Real Italian Deli, and Johannes.
Luxury homes for sale in Vista Las Palmas, Palm Springs
Explore Vista Las Palmas’ best mid-century modern residences and celebrity properties with us. Browse our website or contact us today at (760) 904-5234 or [email protected].