There’s something about the doors in Palm Springs that always makes my heart pitter-patter!
Maybe it’s the bold colors…turquoise, pink, sunshine yellow, set against clean stucco lines and desert skies. Or maybe it’s the way the doors feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Either way, whenever I’m here, photographing doors has become one of my favorite rituals.
Many of these homes are tucked into neighborhoods like Indian Canyons and Movie Colony, areas shaped by Palm Springs’ deep roots in midcentury modern design. In the 1950s and ’60s, architects embraced indoor-outdoor living, simple geometric forms, and playful colors, design choices that still define the city’s character today. These doors aren’t just decorative; they’re part of a larger story about optimism, creativity, and desert living done beautifully.
For me, these doors are little moments of joy. These unexpected pops of color, design details that make a walk in the neighborhood feel like a treasure hunt. The breeze blocks, that let the light and air filter through, adding even more mid century mod charm.
When I photograph them, I’m always mindful that these are private homes. Just a reminder to keep a distance, stay on public sidewalks. There’s a fine line between appreciating design and intruding on someone’s space, and respecting homeowners is part of honoring what makes this place so special.
You can check out these beautiful doors via architecture and neighborhood tours. During Palm Springs Modernism Week, these tours are especially popular, offering a closer look at the history of these mid-century modern homes and neighborhoods.
