Remembering William Krisel: Architect of Palm Springs’ Midcentury Modern Identity

William Krisel, the celebrated architect who helped define the iconic midcentury modern aesthetic of Palm Springs and brought thoughtful Modernist design to thousands of homes across Southern California, passed away on June 5, 2017, at the age of 92. Known for his butterfly roofs, patterned concrete block walls, and signature post-and-beam construction, Krisel made Modernism accessible to the masses while preserving its sophistication, spatial harmony, and joy. His passing marked the end of a visionary era in American architecture, but his influence continues to reverberate through restored neighborhoods, design revivals, and enduring architectural language.

The Rise of Palm Springs Modernism Graduating from USC in 1949, Krisel joined forces with Dan Saxon Palmer, forming the architectural firm Palmer & Krisel. While not as publicly celebrated at the time as some of their contemporaries, the pair made an indelible mark by succeeding where many failed—bringing high-quality modern design to mass-produced suburban homes.

Their breakthrough came when developers George and Robert Alexander retained them to design affordable vacation homes in the Coachella Valley. With simple, modular post-and-beam structures, open floor plans, breezeways, floor-to-ceiling windows, and angular rooflines, Krisel’s homes offered stylish, livable design for everyday families. Between the mid-1950s and 1965, Krisel designed over 2,500 homes in Palm Springs alone, fundamentally transforming its visual identity.

The House of Tomorrow and the Legacy of Innovation Among his many iconic creations, none captured the imagination quite like the “House of Tomorrow” (1962), a futuristic home featured in Look magazine and famously known as the honeymoon hideaway for Elvis and Priscilla Presley. Located in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood, the home blended modern luxury with space-age optimism. Its multiple levels, innovative use of glass and stone, and distinctive circular layout made it an instant classic of Desert Modernism.

Krisel’s designs in neighborhoods like Twin Palms, Racquet Club Road Estates, and Kings Point demonstrate his eye for rhythmic rooflines and climatic responsiveness. These homes were modest in size (around 1,600 square feet), yet felt expansive through their connection to the outdoors and integration with desert landscapes. Unique elements like patterned concrete block walls, carports, large overhangs, and exposed wood beams were thoughtfully incorporated not only for aesthetic appeal but for functional climate control and privacy.

A Democratization of Modernism What made Krisel truly revolutionary was his belief that Modernist design could—and should—be enjoyed by everyone. Rather than reserve architectural beauty for custom homes and elite clients, he introduced bold forms and human-centered layouts into tract developments, proving that good design and mass production could coexist.

Krisel famously noted that the homes that came before his were "tacky, low-ceiling cracker boxes with holes poked out for windows." His designs replaced those with light-filled rooms, indoor-outdoor flow, and uplifting geometry—while maintaining affordability and reproducibility through smart materials and replicable plans.

Later Work and Enduring Influence Although his partnership with Palmer dissolved in the mid-1960s, Krisel continued designing homes, condominiums, and commercial buildings into the 2000s. He consulted with homeowners seeking to restore original details, advised developers building retro-inspired homes with modern upgrades, and participated in preservation efforts across Palm Springs.

His architectural legacy was formally celebrated with books like William Krisel’s Palm Springs: The Language of Modernism, and exhibitions at the Getty Research Institute and Palm Springs Art Museum. Krisel’s career proved that Modernism is more than a trend—it’s a language of living.

The Boyenga Team and the Legacy of Midcentury Modernism As renewed interest in midcentury modern design flourishes, experts like the Boyenga Team at Compass play a key role in preserving and promoting the architectural principles pioneered by visionaries like Krisel. Based in Silicon Valley and known as Midcentury Modern Real Estate Experts, Eric and Janelle Boyenga specialize in representing architecturally significant homes with deep historical value from California Eichlers to retro-chic properties across the West.

Their deep respect for design integrity and architectural preservation makes them trusted advisors for clients who seek more than a home—they seek artful living. The Boyenga Team educates clients on original features, coordinates sensitive restorations, and ensures that legacy homes are passed on with care.

Palm Springs Legacy William Krisel helped shape the landscape of modern California living. His elegant, functional designs brought beauty, simplicity, and optimism to suburban neighborhoods and established Palm Springs as a global design destination. More than 60 years after they were built, Krisel’s homes continue to inspire a new generation of homeowners, designers, and preservationists.

As Krisel once said, “Midcentury Modernism is not a style, it’s a language.” Through the careful stewardship of experts like the Boyenga Team, that language continues to speak—clearly, creatively, and enduringly.