Elrod House: A Mid-Century Masterpiece Designed by Arthur Elrod

If there is one thing that makes Palm Springs a unique destination beyond the great weather and stunning scenery, it is the abundance of exquisite mid-century modern architecture. And among the many iconic buildings in the city, the Elrod House is undoubtedly one of the most impressive. Designed by Arthur Elrod, a legendary interior designer of the time, the house is a masterpiece of modernist design that effortlessly blends indoor and outdoor living.

A Brief History of Arthur Elrod

Before we dive into the details of the Elrod House, let's briefly talk about Arthur Elrod, the man behind the design. Born in 1923, Elrod grew up in San Francisco and studied interior design in Los Angeles. After serving in World War II, he moved to Palm Springs in 1954 and opened his own design firm. He quickly became one of the most sought-after interior designers of the era, working with celebrities like Elvis Presley, Elizabeth Taylor, and Cher.

The Elrod House: A Mid-Century Modern Masterpiece

The Elrod House was built in 1968 for Arthur Elrod and his partner at the time, the artist and sculptor Bob Hovey. The house is a stunning example of mid-century modern architecture, characterized by its sleek lines, clean angles, and minimalist aesthetic. But what really sets it apart is the way it seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor living.

The centerpiece of the house is a massive, circular living room that features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer uninterrupted views of the surrounding desert landscape. The room is anchored by a huge sunken conversation pit that sits in the center, creating a cozy space for entertaining or relaxing with friends. The house also has four other bedrooms, all with their own unique character and charm.

But perhaps the most iconic feature of the Elrod House is the infinity pool that appears to stretch out towards the horizon, giving the impression of swimming straight into the desert. The pool is surrounded by a large terrace with plenty of space for lounging and sunbathing, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the beautiful Palm Springs weather.

The Interior Design of the Elrod House

As you might expect from a house designed by one of the most famous interior designers of all time, the Elrod House is filled with stunning design details and luxurious finishes. The interior is characterized by its use of natural materials like stone, wood, and leather, which help to create a warm and welcoming ambiance.

One of the most impressive details is the custom-made bronze wall that runs the length of the living room, which is decorated with a series of abstract shapes that shimmer in the sunlight. The furniture is a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces that perfectly complement the mid-century modern style of the house.

The legacy of Arthur Elrod

Unfortunately, Arthur Elrod passed away in 1974, just six years after the completion of the Elrod House. But his legacy lives on through his iconic designs, which continue to be celebrated and admired by design enthusiasts all over the world. The Elrod House, in particular, remains a standout example of mid-century modern architecture, and a testament to the talent and vision of one of the greatest interior designers of all time.

Conclusion

The Elrod House is a true mid-century masterpiece that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living in a way that is both elegant and functional. And while it was designed over 50 years ago, it remains just as impressive and relevant today as it did when it was first built. If you are ever in Palm Springs, be sure to take a tour of this iconic building and see for yourself why it continues to be one of the most beloved examples of mid-century modern architecture.