- Palm Springs Modern Living, by James Schnepf, Gibbs Smith, 224 pages, $54.
In this tribute to Palm Springs and the many stunning mid-century modern houses built there, photographer James Schnepf simultaneously celebrates the architecture and the residents.
His images are collaborative portraits where both people and buildings share the limelight.
The subjects are noteworthy for their commitment to the preservation of these beautiful homes and each have a wonderful story to tell about how they came to live there.
Many of the houses featured were built by William Krisel, Albert Frey, Donald Wexler and William F. Cody, all leading architects of mid-century modern. Schnepf captures the unique and quirky character of his subjects brilliantly. Whether it be Joe and Kim Zakowski standing in their pool with martinis in hand, or the perfect composition of David Zippel seen relaxing from across the rock and patio stone walkway, each image oozes personality.
The broad glass walls and open design that expresses the functionality of this style shines through in every home. The connection to the outdoors and the space surrounding each building mark all of them as important examples of an architectural style that is perfectly linked with this desert community.