Palm Springs Driving Tour Presented by Volvo

When Volvo came to Palm Springs to launch their XC90 in March of 2022, they asked Mr Call to create a 45 minute driving tour of the area that highlighted Modernist architecture and a variety of terrains. This tour takes you from the hills of the Palisades into the glamorous neighborhood of Old Las Palmas, through Indian Canyons, and finally a trip into the desert above Araby Cove. The final destination is the Parker Hotel, where you should indulge in a much deserved cocktail on their patio.

Over 300 guests drove their XC90 to take this epic journey through our beautiful town during this event.

A. The Palisades

B. The "Kauffman House” by Richard Neutra/ 1946

- Site of Slim Aarons famous photo, “Poolside Gossip” 1970

- Recently sold for 21 million dollars

C The first “Swiss Miss House" by Charles DuBois/ 1958

- Charles DuBois was mostly known as a set designer for MGM Studios

- In 1958 he invented the “Swiss Miss” style home.

- This is the first of twenty-nine that were built, only six remain.

D. The "Dinah Shore House" by Donald Wexler/ 1964

- Bought by Leonardo DiCaprio in 2014 for 5.4 million

- The windowless exterior stone wall cuts a serpentine wave through the lawn creating a long, lean, and imposing silhouette - while also providing privacy for those within.

E. "Forever Marilyn” by Seward Johnson / 2011

- This artwork travels the country, and currently is in Palm Springs.

- Loaded with iconic Hollywood imagery as well as a sense of revisionism - this sculpture has sparked much debate throughout the international art community

- Your thoughts?

F. “The Del Marcos Hotel” by William Cody/ 1947

- Cody’s first architecture project. (Founding father of Mid Century Modernism )

- He was inspired by indigenous people and their architecture crafted of thick stone walls and extensive overhands that cooled interior spaces

G. "That Pink Door”

- This door has earned it’s own hashtag on Instagram #ThatPinkDoor.

- It's a right of passage in our area to take at least one picture here.

H. "Park Imperial South” by Barry Berkus/ 1960

- Rooflines inspired by the mountains silhouettes

- Mid century modernists believed that co-housing would create better, more inclusive housing for all.

I. Stop along this path to look over he dessert valley all the way through town, past the windmills and all he way to Joshua Tree. A spectacular viewpoint before you arrive at your destination.

J. The Parker Hotel

- Time for a cocktail