Palm Springs Sandcliff Community Listed In National Register Of Historic Places

PALM SPRINGS, CA — A storied mid-century community in Palm Springs now has a permanent spot in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Sandcliff historic district was officially listed in the register on April 1, the first listing for a multi-family district in the city of Palm Springs.

Sandcliff is a remarkably intact example of a 1960s Palm Springs modern-style garden apartment condominium. Built in two phases between 1960 and 1964 near Smoke Tree Ranch in what is now Araby Commons, on the city's south side, the property represents a pivotal period in Palm Springs' midcentury community planning, when residential development began moving away from primarily single-family homes.

The garden apartment condominium offered freedom from the responsibilities of single-family homeownership and access to more leisure.

A 1960 preview opening advertisement for Sandcliff in Palm Springs Life touted, "Sandcliff means more than just desert living, or a home away from home — it is actually a way of life."

The multi-family building type catered to a growing population of potential middle-class residents by offering a more affordable option for retirement, vacation, or a second home.

One-story, low-slung building profiles, geometric massing, unadorned stucco wall surfaces, expanses of glass in full-height windows and doors, and private patios designed to take advantage of mountain views all contributed to the new aesthetic.

Sandcliff is also distinctive for its abundant use of decorative screen block walls used as both functional and design elements.

"This is an extraordinary moment for our community. Being listed in the National Register is not only a profound honor but also a testament to the rich history and unique character that defines our neighborhood," said Sandcliff HOA President Fred Sousek. "Our residents are thrilled to see our shared heritage recognized on such a prestigious platform. It’s a source of immense pride and inspiration for us all as we continue to foster and preserve the legacy of this remarkable place for generations to come."

The Sandcliff Homeowners Association, with the full support of property owners, submitted the National Register nomination to the registration unit staff of the State Office of Historic Preservation in Sacramento in June 2024.

The nomination was reviewed by the State Historical Resources Commission at its quarterly
meeting on February 7. At the meeting, the commission unanimously recommended to the Keeper of the National Register that the property be listed in the National Register.

In 2016, the Sandcliff community was designated a Palm Springs Historic District.