Acclaimed midcentury modern architect Albert Frey shaped the architectural landscape of the desert with his vision of simplistic living.⁠ ⁠ Here, architecture and design specialist Brad Dunning provides a tour of the hillside home he built for himself. Known as Frey House II, it features numerous design feats — perhaps most notably the giant boulder jutting through the back wall.⁠ ⁠ See it in person this month! We’re hosting daily tours of this iconic residence during @modernism_week in conjunct

Albert Frey, one of the most important modern architects of our time, lived and worked in Palm Springs since 1934. Frey House II, his longtime residence, was his second home in Palm Springs and completed in 1964. This hillside landmark looks across the expanse of the Coachella Valley and was designed to have as little impact on the surrounding environment, remaining compact in form but very functional. The home showcases innovation in design and incorporation of natural elements, including a lar

Swiss architect Albert Frey was patient. The midcentury master took five years to find the perfect site to build his second desert residence. He then waited another year, as he painstakingly measured the movement of the sun using a 10-foot pole.⁠ ⁠ At the time Frey House II was built, it claimed the highest perch of in the city. Palm Springs City Hall called the design “crazy,” but they eventually gave him their approval.⁠ ⁠ Since then, Frey House II has become a hillside landmark. Perched partw

Iconic views from an iconic home. Frey House II, built in 1964, is one of modernist architect Albert Frey's most notable works and his personal residence. Perched part way up the San Jacinto mountain and overlooking the expanse of the Coachella Valley, the house is renowned for its seamless integration with the desert landscape. A striking pool appears to merge with the rugged terrain, capturing Frey’s vision of blending architecture with nature. As one of the few remaining homes designed by Fre