Council designates Desert Lanai Phase I and the Quincy Jones-designed Robinson residence as historic

Palm Springs City Council voted unanimously to designate two midcentury properties as historic: Desert Lanai Phase I, a 1961 Polynesian/Tiki‑influenced condominium cluster, and the Robinson residence, a single‑family home designed by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons.

Sarah Yoon, the city’s historic preservation planner, presented each nomination and the Historic Site Preservation Board’s findings. HSPB concluded Desert Lanai Phase I met significance criteria for its architecture, its role as an early form of condominium-style resort living, and its association with architect Charles Du Bois; the board recommended a district focused on the first phase because that portion retains the best integrity. The nomination included the courtyard, original pool and site layout; HSPB noted some wood detailing has been replaced over time but the overall form, massing and site plan remain intact.

The Robinson residence was presented as an exceptional example of modernist domestic architecture designed by A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons. HSPB recommended class 1 landmark status for the home based on the design’s high integrity and significance to the valley’s modern architectural heritage. Councilmembers asked about Mills Act eligibility and fiscal impacts associated with contractual tax incentives; planning staff said Mills Act applications can be pursued by owners but the city has not done a comprehensive fiscal analysis of long-term tax rebate impacts.

Councilmember Jeffrey Bernstein moved to adopt staff recommendations; both nominations carried on separate motions with unanimous 5–0 votes. Staff will place both properties on the local register and proceed with administrative steps connected to designation and advisory Mills Act briefings to owners who wish to pursue property tax contracts.