The more I write about Modernism Week and the homes I saw and visited, the more I realise just how much of an impact it has had on me. Albert Frey (1903 - 1998) is one of the most prolific modern architects who lived and worked in Palm Springs. Amongst many other buildings, he designed two private residences for himself one of which is Frey House II built in 1964. Neither are usually open to the public however Frey House II was opened for tours during Modernism Week and I was fortunate to see the house in person. Read on to see more...
There were two things that surprised me initially about the property, one of which is how high up in the desert mountain it is located with breathtaking views of Coachella Valley. The other is the way in which Frey has integrated the house into the surroundings, and quite literally - there is a large boulder embedded within the design of the home that becomes a divider between the bedroom and living space. A light switch has been installed within the rock to make it functional too.
The house is humble with a small footprint at approx. 75 square meters. It is seated in perfect solitude in the hillside and is so simple in its design. It almost feels as though Frey didn't want to touch the landscape at all by building a structure on it and when the glass sliding doors are open the home feels as though it is seamlessly part of its environment. Very beautiful to experience.
How often do we think about needing more space in our homes, more rooms, more storage? And here is a home designed to have less and yet it has so much to offer (including an amazing and not-very-child-friendly pool!). I hope you enjoy these photos.
Is there something that appeals to you most about the home?
This post is dedicated to my friend Emily Sephton.
