PRESERVATION EFFORTS

It is often difficult to appreciate how a historic building can be restored to its original beauty when it has been as neglected as the
Town & Country Center, especially its former restaurant.

When viewed from the Indian Canyon side, the building’s neglected landscaping, bland paint job, and abandoned storefront is an unflattering turn off. Yet, the harmful alterations to the Town & Country Restaurant can be reversed. In fact, there are many instances of buildings in far worse condition that have been successfully adapted to contemporary uses. One of the most recent examples is the Albert Frey-designed North Shore Yacht Club at the Salton Sea that was considered a hopeless teardown and yet was fully restored and adapted for use as a community center.

There are a number of approaches that could be considered for revitalizing the Town & Country Center and its future is uncertain pending decisions by the City and the owner. The Palm Springs Modern Committee suggests that an open discussion between the property owner, downtown stakeholders, City officials, tourism experts, and the community can find a way to meet our shared goals of creating a vibrant downtown that incorporates retail, housing, open spaces, and views while celebrating Palm Springs’ rich architectural heritage.