HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 2A - 2455 Southridge Drive_HSPB 162
HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD
STAFF REPORT
DATE: February 4, 2025 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: APPLICATION BY WILLIAM GRIMM AND DAVID BRINKMAN FOR
HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION OF “THE DR. HARRY AND BETTY
GARBER RESIDENCE” LOCATED AT 2455 SOUTHRIDGE DRIVE, CASE
HSPB #162 (APN 510-260-024) (SY).
FROM: Department of Planning Services
SUMMARY
This request for Class 1 historic designation was submitted by the current owners of the
property. This single-family home in the Southridge Estates was designed by architect
Richard Harrison during the post-World War II period. The period of significance for this
site is 1972.
If designated as a historic resource, the property would be subject to the regulations
outlined in Section 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Close the public hearing and adopt Resolution HSPB #162, “A RESOLUTION OF
THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM
SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
DESIGNATE “THE DR. HARRY AND BETTY GARBER RESIDENCE” LOCATED
AT 2455 SOUTHRIDGE DRIVE, AS A CLASS 1 (LANDMARK) HISTORIC
RESOURCE HSPB #162, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS (APN #510-260-024).”
BACKGROUND AND SETTING:
The Southridge area was developed in two phases (Tract 2082 and Tract 2928) with the
second phase subdividing the area into twenty individual parcels in 1965. Developers
Petty, Rahn, and Anable subdivided area and established design guidelines to preserve
the character of the development.1 Residential development along the hillside became
desirable for the exceptional views and privacy these sites have to offer but would have
remained undeveloped if not for advancements in engineering.
1 City of Palm Springs Citywide Historic Context Statement “Post-World War II Palm Springs (1945-1969)”, 211.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 2 of 9
AERIAL VIEW OF THE SUBJECT PARCEL.
EAST (FRONT) ELEVATION FROM SOUTHRIDE DRIVE, 2025.
VIEW OF THE HOME FROM THE ATRIUM LOOKING NORTHWEST, 2025.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 3 of 9
Related Relevant City Actions by HSPB, Planning, Fire, Building, etc.
January, 2025 Site inspection by members of the HSPB and City Staff.
Ownership Status
December, 2023 Purchased by the current owner.
Historic Context Statement “Post-World War II (1945-1969)”
In a period of prosperity and advancements in building technology, hillside lots were no
longer off limits. The parcels within Southridge Estates not only provide maximum privacy
and security for its residence, but each site is also able to capture incredible panoramic
views of the valley.
Context: Post-World War II Palm Springs (1945-1969)
Theme: Post World War II Single-Family Residential Development (1945-1969)
Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme, a property must:
Date from the period of significance; and
Represent an excellent example of an architectural style or method of
construction; or be associated with a significant architect or designer; and
Display most of the character-defining features of the property type or
style; and
Retain the essential aspects of historic integrity.
Context: Architectural Styles & Local Practitioners
Theme: Modern Styles of the Post-World War II Era
Sub-theme: Mid-century Modern
Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme as an excellent
example of its architectural style, a property must:
Retain most – though not necessarily all – of the character-defining
features of the style, and continue to exhibit its historic appearance
If important for illustrating a particular architectural style or construction
technique, must retain most of the physical features that constitute that
style or technique.
ANALYSIS:
A historic resources report (“the report”), site visit, and city documents and forms are the
basis of this staff report. Designed by Harrison, the Garber Residence retains character-
defining features associated with the Mid-century Modern style using simple geometric
forms, post-and-beam construction, floor to ceiling fenestration, and site-specific design.
Historic Preservation activities in Palm Springs are regulated under Municipal Code
Section 8.05 (“Historic Preservation”). The purpose of the Historic Preservation
Ordinance is:
“…to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are
considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 4 of 9
value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote
the use of historic resources for the education and welfare of the citizens.”
Conditions that apply to Class 1 historic sites or resources:
1. It shall meet the definition of a historic site as outlined in Municipal Code Section
8.05.020.
2. An archival file shall be maintained on the property by the City.
3. It may be qualified as ‘historic’ at the federal, state, and/or county level.
4. A marker explaining the historic nature of the site may be installed in a location
viewable from the public way.
5. Compliance with all rules and regulations for Historic Resources and Historic
Districts under Chapter 8.05 of the Municipal Code.
6. If designated, the findings in support of designation shall be stated in a resolution
of the City Council that shall be recorded with the County Recorders’ office within
90 days of the effective date of the Council’s resolution.
Evaluation of the Application. Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.070 (C,1,a), the
HSPB shall evaluate the application and make findings in conformance with the following
criteria:
Criteria for the Designation of Class 1 Historic Resources. A site, structure, building or
object may be designated as a Class 1 historic resource, provided both of the following
findings (“a” and “b”) are met:
a. The site, structure, building or object exhibits exceptional historic
significance and meets one or more of the criteria listed below:
2455 Southridge Drive is a single-family home constructed in the spirit of the Modern
Movement. The interiors of privately owned properties are not subject to historic review;
however, the application highlights the original interior layout and details which are
extremely well-maintained and intended to be preserved. The following is an analysis of
the criterion and integrity findings for historic designation.
(Criterion i) The resource is associated with events that have made a
meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community;
No meaningful event is associated with this site, thus does not qualify under Criterion i.
(Criterion ii) The resource is associated with the lives of persons who
made a meaningful contribution to national, state or local history;
The home was built for Dr. Harry and Betty Garber and the current owners purchased the
property from the family. Based on the information provided in the historic resources
report, the site is not associated with individuals that meet this criterion.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 5 of 9
(Criterion iii) The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of
national, state or local history;
The post-World War II in Palms Springs is described as a period of substantial growth
and wealth. A tourist town that focused on part-time residents was now building for full-
time residents like the Garbers. As large tracts of developable land quickly transform into
residential development, the desire for more privacy and security created a market to
develop hillside areas. The architectural movement during this time focused on Modernist
principles that utilized simple materials like stucco and post-and-beam construction to
create privacy and frame views. This custom-built residence demonstrates a refined use
of simple forms and materials to create a home nestled within the dramatic landscape.
The architecture responds to the surrounding site context by orienting the building
towards the mountain vistas but screening harsh conditions like the desert sun using deep
overhangs and canopies. Not only does this home reflect the residential development
patterns of this period, but it is also an exceptional representation of the Mid-century
Modern style of architecture that embraces the desert landscape. Criterion iii is met.
(Criterion iv) The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a
type, period or method of construction;
Unlike the National Register criterion concerning construction, the Palm Springs
evaluation of construction addresses the type (of construction), the period (of
construction) and the method (of construction). The home was constructed using
conventional methods and no new building materials or technology was specifically
identified. Criterion iv is not met.
(Criterion v) The resource presents the work of a master builder, designer,
artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age, or that
possesses high artistic value;
Architect Richard Harrison is a notable figure that has influenced the field of design and
architecture at the local level and at the international level through his contribution to the
Palm Springs School of Architecture. With many noteworthy projects throughout the
Coachella Valley, Harrison was best known for his residential commissions. His formal
architecture training at the University of Southern California introduced him to the trends
exemplified through the Case Study Houses. He also worked for influential architects and
designers like William Cody, E. Steward Williams and John Porter Clark. The design of
the Garber Residence reflects the individual genius that Harrison possessed when it
came to site design, and the home itself possesses high artistic value as an excellent
representation of post-and-beam construction. Based on the association of Harrison and
high artistic value of the home, Criterion v for historic significance is met.
(Criterion vi) The resource represents a significant and distinguishable
entity whose components may lack individual distinction, as used in
evaluating applications for designation of historic districts, for parcels on
which more than one entity exists; or
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 6 of 9
The resource is not within a historic district and does not qualify under Criterion vi.
(Criterion vii) The resource has yielded or may be likely to yield information
important to national, state or local history or prehistory.
No information is available on any pre-historic significance of the site.
Analysis of Integrity. (PSMC 8.05.070 (C,1,b). The site, structure, building
or object retains one or more of the following aspects of integrity, as
established in the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards: integrity of design,
materials, workmanship, location, setting, feeling, or association.
The Harry and Betty Garber Residence is evaluated based on the following topics of
integrity based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards:
Location.
The home is in its original location on the lot and the building footprint remains intact;
therefore, the integrity of location is met.
Design.
This is a custom-designed home by Richard Harrison that places a strong emphasis on
living in the natural landscape. The form and materials are harmonious with the site and
have a minimal presence from the street. In fact, the only element seen from Southridge
Drive is the low-slung design of the carport and masonry walls. The descent into the
sunken garden atrium reveals the simple building shape but the mountain vista through
the home reads as the building’s elevation, and the sunken placement of the home allows
for maximum privacy. The design focuses on spatial experiences and ornamentation is
limited to the door hardware, light fixtures, and paving material. From the garden atrium
to the edge of the pool patio there is a clear and unobstructed view of the city and
surrounding natural landscape. The carport overhang extends over the sunken atrium on
wooden beams which also provides a layering of roof forms that adds articulation to the
site. The gable roof with red clay tiles departs from the overall aesthetic that consist of
rectilinear forms; however, the heavy texture of the stucco walls and glazed floor tiles
reflect design queues representative of the Spanish Colonial Revival style of architecture.
The post-and-beam architecture and the stone fireplace are strong visual markers that
connect the interior of the home to the exterior spaces in a seamless transition. Little to
no change has been made to the original design of the home; therefore, the design
integrity remains intact.
Setting.
The layout and design of the residential tract in Southridge is maintained by adhering to
design guidelines that protect the surrounding setting and views. The home remains in a
setting that is consistent with when it was first built, thus the integrity of site remains intact.
Materials.
The home was built with building materials that were commonly used during this period
but of higher quality. The large expansive floor to ceiling glazing in bronze-tinted
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 7 of 9
aluminum framing defines the general form of the home and the hand-troweled stucco
walls and large aggregate terrazzo give the home texture. The roof is mostly flat with a
pitched gabled roof over the living room area covered in red clay tile. The specified
building materials appear consistent with the original design and appear in excellent
condition; thus the integrity of material is met.
Workmanship.
The Garber residence was constructed using conventional construction methods and
materials such as stucco, stone veneer and glass; however, the execution of the design
highlights the cohesion of the different materials and the architect’s attention to detail.
Consistent hand-troweled patterns of the stucco and the seamless integration of
architectural features like the stone fireplace and the extruded beams transcend the
barriers between interior and exterior space. A high level of workmanship is detected on
this site. Staff finds the integrity of workmanship is intact.
Feeling.
The feeling associated with the Modern Movement of the post-World War II period is
conveyed through the simple design of the home. The level of workmanship and
preserved setting contributes to the feeling remaining intact.
Association.
The property is associated with architect Richard Harrison and his design aesthetics are
prominently displayed with this home. The pattern and layout of the neighborhood also
remains intact. The integrity of association with an influential figure and a significant
period is apparent.
DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS:
In considering a recommendation for historic resource designation it is important to
distinguish those physical elements that are original or from the period of significance
that, contribute to the resource’s historic significance from alterations, additions or
features that were added at a later time that may be sympathetic to the original character,
but which may create a false sense of historicity. Distinguishing original character-
defining features from non-original elements aids the HSPB when it is tasked with
evaluating future alterations to the historic resource.
Character-defining features on page 20 of the historic resources report and the staff
analysis of important features are listed as follows:
• Site design of the property and building footprint of the home angled within the
mountain landscape.
• Sunken garden atrium with direct access from the carport using the exterior
staircase attached to the southeast section of the retaining wall.
• Extended carport overhang across the sunken atrium supported by wooden
beams.
• Unobstructed views from the living area looking north.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 8 of 9
• Continuous extension of the rafter beams from the interior to the exterior of the
space and deeper overhangs on the west side of the home.
• Floor to ceiling glazing with vertical separations between panes.
• Triangular clerestory windows on the gable ends of the roof.
• Location and design of the masonry fireplace.
• Simple grey concrete hardscape and single concrete landing at the base of the
sliding glass doors on the north elevation.
• Contemporary post-and-beam flat-roofed residence with a pitched roof volume
over the living/dining room. This volume is covered in terra-cotta barrel tile.
• Off-white split-face concrete brick.
• Open carport.
• Heavily trowelled off-white stucco.
• Kool Deck patio with swimming pool.
• Anodized bronze aluminum sliding glass doors and windows.
• Dolomite stone veneer.
• Off-white large aggregate terrazzo tile.
• Decorative tiles with circular patterns of marble chips in gold with white.
Non-contributing elements:
• Metal and cable perimeter fence.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The proposed historic resource designation is not subject to the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct
or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3)
(the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines,
California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for
resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly.
NOTIFICATION:
Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, all residents within
five hundred (500) feet of the subject property have been notified and notice was
published in a newspaper of general circulation.
CONCLUSION:
The Harry and Betty Garber Residence meets the definition of a historic resource based
on Criterion 3 and 5 of the Palm Springs Historic Preservation Ordinance and meets the
necessary integrity findings to support its historic significance; therefore, staff
recommends Class 1 Designation as a historic landmark property.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 4, 2025
HSPB-162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
Page 9 of 9
PREPARED BY: Sarah Yoon, Associate Planner/Historic Preservation Officer
REVIEWED BY: Christopher Hadwin, Director of Planning Services
Attachments:
A. Vicinity Map
B. Draft Resolution
C. Application, related background materials, photos.
ATTACHMENT A
Department of Planning Services
Vicinity Map
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
HSPB #162 – Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence
2455 Southridge Drive
ATTACHMENT B
RESOLUTION NO. HSPB #162
A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION
BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE
THE DR. HARRY AND BETTY RESIDENCE LOCATED AT
2455 SOUTHRIDGE DRIVE, A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE
(HSPB #162), APN #510-260-024.
THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD (“HSPB”) FINDS AND DETERMINES
AS FOLLOWS:
A. WHEREAS, Chapter 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code allows for the
designation of historic sites and districts; and
B. WHEREAS, The City of Palm Springs filed an application pursuant to Article III,
Section 8.05.070 (Procedure and Criteria for Designation of Historic Resources) of the
Palm Springs Municipal Code requesting historic resources designation for “The Dr. Harry
and Betty Garber” located at 2455 Southridge Drive. The application included a historic
resources report (“the report”).
C. WHEREAS, on January 22 and 23, 2024, members of the Historic Site
Preservation Board (HSPB) conducted site inspections of the proposed historic resource,
accompanied by City staff; and
D. WHEREAS, on February 4, 2025, a noticed public hearing of the Palm Springs
Historic Site Preservation Board (“HSPB”) to consider Case HSPB #162 was held in
accordance with applicable law; and
E. WHEREAS, the HSPB carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence
presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the
staff report and all written and oral testimony presented.
THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
RESOLVES:
SECTION 1: FINDINGS – PART “1”, CRITERIA FOR HISTORIC RESOURCES.
Evaluation of the Application. Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.070 (C,1,a), the
HSPB shall evaluate the application and make findings in conformance with the following
criteria:
1. Criteria for the Designation of Class 1 Historic Resources. A site, structure,
building or object may be designated as a Class 1 historic resource,
provided both of the following findings (“a” and “b”) are met:
Resolution No. HSPB #162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Residence
Page 2 of 6
February 4, 2024
a. The site, structure, building, or object exhibits exceptional historic
significance and meets one or more of the criteria listed below:
2455 Southridge Drive is a single-family home constructed in the spirit of the Modern
Movement. The interiors of privately owned properties are not subject to historic review;
however, the application highlights the original interior layout and details which are
extremely well-maintained and intended to be preserved. The following is an analysis of
the criterion and integrity findings for historic designation.
(Criterion i) The resource is associated with events that have made a
meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community;
No meaningful event is associated with this site, thus does not qualify under Criterion i.
(Criterion ii) The resource is associated with the lives of persons who
made a meaningful contribution to national, state or local history;
The home was built for Dr. Harry and Betty Garber and the current owners purchased the
property from the family. Based on the information provided in the historic resources
report, the site is not associated with individuals that meet this criterion.
(Criterion iii) The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of
national, state or local history;
The post-World War II in Palms Springs is described as a period of substantial
growth and wealth. A tourist town that focused on part-time residents was now
building for full-time residents like the Garbers. As large tracts of developable land
quickly transform into residential development, the desire for more privacy and
security created a market to develop hillside areas. The architectural movement
during this time focused on Modernist principles that utilized simple materials like
stucco and post-and-beam construction to create privacy and frame views. This
custom-built residence demonstrates a refined use of simple forms and materials
to create a home nestled within the dramatic landscape. The architecture responds
to the surrounding site context by orienting the building towards the mountain
vistas but screening harsh conditions like the desert sun using deep overhangs
and canopies. Not only does this home reflect the residential development patterns
of this period, but it is also an exceptional representation of the Mid-century
Modern style of architecture that embraces the desert landscape. Criterion iii is
met.
(Criterion iv) The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a
type, period or method of construction;
Unlike the National Register criterion concerning construction, the Palm Springs
evaluation of construction addresses the type (of construction), the period (of
construction) and the method (of construction). The home was constructed using
conventional methods and no new building materials or technology was specifically
Resolution No. HSPB #162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Residence
Page 3 of 6
February 4, 2024
identified. Criterion iv is not met.
(Criterion v) The resource presents the work of a master builder, designer,
artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age, or that
possesses high artistic value;
Architect Richard Harrison is a notable figure that has influenced the field of design
and architecture at the local level and at the international level through his
contribution to the Palm Springs School of Architecture. With many noteworthy
projects throughout the Coachella Valley, Harrison was best known for his
residential commissions. His formal architecture training at the University of
Southern California introduced him to the trends exemplified through the Case
Study Houses. He also worked for influential architects and designers like William
Cody, E. Steward Williams and John Porter Clark. The design of the Garber
Residence reflects the individual genius that Harrison possessed when it came to
site design, and the home itself possesses high artistic value as an excellent
representation of post-and-beam construction. Based on the association of
Harrison and high artistic value of the home, Criterion v for historic significance is
met.
(Criterion vi) The resource represents a significant and distinguishable
entity whose components may lack individual distinction, as used in
evaluating applications for designation of historic districts, for parcels on
which more than one entity exists; or
The resource is not within a historic district and does not qualify under Criterion vi.
(Criterion vii) The resource has yielded or may be likely to yield information
important to national, state or local history or prehistory.
No information is available on any pre-historic significance of the site.
SECTION 2: PART “B” ANALYSIS OF HISTORIC INTEGRITY.
Analysis of Integrity. (PSMC 8.05.070 (C,1,b). The site, structure, building or
object retains one or more of the following aspects of integrity, as established in
the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards: integrity of design, materials,
workmanship, location, setting, feeling, or association.
The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence is evaluated based on the following topics of
integrity based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards:
Location.
The home is in its original location on the lot and the building footprint remains intact;
therefore, the integrity of location is met.
Resolution No. HSPB #162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Residence
Page 4 of 6
February 4, 2024
Design.
This is a custom-designed home by Richard Harrison that places a strong emphasis on
living in the natural landscape. The form and materials are harmonious with the site and
have a minimal presence from the street. In fact, the only element seen from Southridge
Drive is the low-slung design of the carport and masonry walls. The descent into the
sunken garden atrium reveals the simple building shape but the mountain vista through
the home reads as the building’s elevation, and the sunken placement of the home allows
for maximum privacy. The design focuses on spatial experiences and ornamentation is
limited to the door hardware, light fixtures, and paving material. From the garden atrium
to the edge of the pool patio there is a clear and unobstructed view of the city and
surrounding natural landscape. The carport overhang extends over the sunken atrium on
wooden beams which also provides a layering of roof forms that adds articulation to the
site. The gable roof with red clay tiles departs from the overall aesthetic that consist of
rectilinear forms; however, the heavy texture of the stucco walls and glazed floor tiles
reflect design queues representative of the Spanish Colonial Revival style of architecture.
The post-and-beam architecture and the stone fireplace are strong visual markers that
connect the interior of the home to the exterior spaces in a seamless transition. Little to
no change has been made to the original design of the home; therefore, the design
integrity remains intact.
Setting.
The layout and design of the residential tract in Southridge is maintained by adhering to
design guidelines that protect the surrounding setting and views. The home remains in a
setting that is consistent with when it was first built, thus the integrity of site remains intact.
Materials.
The home was built with building materials that were commonly used during this period
but of higher quality. The large expansive floor to ceiling glazing in bronze-tinted
aluminum framing defines the general form of the home and the hand-troweled stucco
walls and large aggregate terrazzo give the home texture. The roof is mostly flat with a
pitched gabled roof over the living room area covered in red clay tile. The specified
building materials appear consistent with the original design and appear in excellent
condition; thus the integrity of material is met.
Workmanship.
The Garber residence was constructed using conventional construction methods and
materials such as stucco, stone veneer and glass; however, the execution of the design
highlights the cohesion of the different materials and the architect’s attention to detail.
Consistent hand-troweled patterns of the stucco and the seamless integration of
architectural features like the stone fireplace and the extruded beams transcend the
barriers between interior and exterior space. A high level of workmanship is detected on
this site. Staff finds the integrity of workmanship is intact.
Feeling.
The feeling associated with the Modern Movement of the post-World War II period is
conveyed through the simple design of the home. The level of workmanship and
preserved setting contributes to the feeling remaining intact.
Resolution No. HSPB #162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Residence
Page 5 of 6
February 4, 2024
Association.
The property is associated with architect Richard Harrison and his design aesthetics are
prominently displayed with this home. The pattern and layout of the neighborhood also
remains intact. The integrity of association with an influential figure and a significant
period is apparent.
SECTION 3: DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS
In considering a recommendation for historic resource designation it is important to
distinguish those physical elements that are original or from the period of significance that
contribute to the resource’s historic significance from alterations, additions or features
that were added at a later time that may be sympathetic to the original character, but
which may create a false sense of historicity. Distinguishing original character-defining
features from non-original elements aids the HSPB when it is tasked with evaluating
future alterations to the historic resource.
Character-defining features of the resource are as follows:
• Site design of the property and building footprint of the home angled within the
mountain landscape.
• Sunken garden atrium with direct access from the carport using the exterior
staircase attached to the southeast section of the retaining wall.
• Extended carport overhang across the sunken atrium supported by wooden
beams.
• Unobstructed views from the living area looking north.
• Continuous extension of the rafter beams from the interior to the exterior of the
space and deeper overhangs on the west side of the home.
• Floor to ceiling glazing with vertical separations between panes.
• Triangular clerestory windows on the gable ends of the roof.
• Location and design of the masonry fireplace.
• Simple grey concrete hardscape and single concrete landing at the base of the
sliding glass doors on the north elevation.
• Contemporary post-and-beam flat-roofed residence with a pitched roof volume
over the living/dining room. This volume is covered in terra-cotta barrel tile.
• Off-white split-face concrete brick.
• Open carport.
• Heavily trowelled off-white stucco.
• Kool Deck patio with swimming pool.
• Anodized bronze aluminum sliding glass doors and windows.
• Dolomite stone veneer.
• Off-white large aggregate terrazzo tile.
• Decorative tiles with circular patterns of marble chips in gold with white.
Non-contributing elements:
• Metal and cable perimeter fence.
Resolution No. HSPB #162 – The Dr. Harry and Betty Residence
Page 6 of 6
February 4, 2024
SECTION 4: ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
The proposed historic resource designation is not subject to the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct
or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3)
(the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines,
California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for
resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly.
SECTION 5: CONDITIONS THAT APPLY TO CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITES.
According to Section 8.05 of the Municipal Code, the following shall apply to a Class 1
Historic Resource:
1. It shall meet the definition of a Class 1 historic site as outlined in Municipal Code
Section 8.05.020.
2. An archival file on the property shall be maintained by the City.
3. It may be qualified as ‘historic’ at the federal, state, and/or county level.
4. The structure/site may not be modified nor objects removed without following the
procedures outlined in Municipal Code Section 8.05.110 “Demolition or Alteration
of Class 1 and Class 2 Historic Resources – Certificate of Appropriateness”.
5. A marker explaining the historic nature of the site may be installed at the site in a
location viewable from the public way.
6. Compliance with all rules and regulations for Historic Sites and Historic Districts
under Chapter 8.05 of the Municipal Code shall be required.
7. The site shall not be further subdivided.
8. The City Clerk shall submit the Council Resolution to the County recorder for
recordation within 90 days of the effective date of the Council’s resolution.
Based upon the foregoing, the Historic Site Preservation Board recommends that the City
Council designate The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence located at 2455 Southridge
Drive, a Class 1 Historic Resource (HSPB #162).
ADOPTED THIS FOURTH DAY OF FEBRUARY 2025.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST: CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
Christopher Hadwin
Director of Planning Services
ATTACHMENT C
1
The Dr. Harry and Betty Garber Residence, 1972
2455 Southridge Drive
Palm Springs, California, 92264
Richard A. Harrison, AIA, architect
Palm Springs, CA 92264
Nomination Application For City of Palm Springs Class 1 Historic Resource
Prepared by
STEVEN KEYLON
For the
PALM SPRINGS PRESERVATION FOUNDATION
Final August 20, 2024
2
A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S
The author would like to thank
the following individuals and organizations for
their professional expertise and/or editing assistance:
Tracy Conrad; Barbara Marshall; Steve Treinen; Susan Secoy Jensen.
Special thanks to Ron Duby, copy editor.
3
C L A S S 1 H I S T O R I C R E S O U R C E N O M I N A T I O N
Table of Contents
A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T S ..................................................................................................................................... 2
C L A S S 1 H I S T O R I C R E S O U R C E N O M I N A T I O N ......................................................................... 3
I N T R O D U C T I O N ...................................................................................................................................................... 5
E X E C U T I V E S U M M A R Y ....................................................................................................................................... 5
SIGNIFICANCE: ................................................................................................................................................................. 5
DESIGNATION CRITERIA: ............................................................................................................................................... 5
APPLICATION.................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Statement of Significance ............................................................................................................................................... 10
BACKGROUND/HISTORIC CONTEXT ........................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
SOUTHRIDGE .................................................................................................................................................................. 12
ARCHITECTURE OF THE GARBER RESIDENCE .......................................................................................................... 18
Character-Defining Features of the Garber Residence ..................................................................................................... 20
CHANGES OVER TIME ................................................................................................................................................... 20
FIRST OWNERS: HARRY AND BETTY GARBER .......................................................................................................... 23
BACKGROUND / HISTORIC CONTEXT .......................................................................................................................... 24
EVALUATION: ................................................................................................................................................................. 25
Integrity Analysis (using US Secretary of Interior Standards) ............................................................................................... 26
INTEGRITY ....................................................................................................................................................................... 26
DESIGN ............................................................................................................................................................................. 26
MATERIALS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 27
WORKMANSHIP ............................................................................................................................................................. 27
LOCATION ...................................................................................................................................................................... 27
SETTING ........................................................................................................................................................................... 28
FEELING ............................................................................................................................................................................ 28
ASSOCIATION ................................................................................................................................................................. 28
APPENDIXES ........................................................................................................................................................................ 30
OWNER LETTER OF SUPPORT ..................................................................................................................................... 30
Assessor’s Map and Aerial ................................................................................................................................................ 31
4
Building Permits .................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Chain of Title ........................................................................................................................................................................ 34
HISTORIC PHOTOS ............................................................................................................................................................ 35
Contemporary Photos .......................................................................................................................................................... 43
5
I N T R O D U C T I O N
The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation (PSPF) is a non-profit organization whose mission is “to educate
and promote public awareness of the importance of preserving the historical resources and architecture of
the city of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley area.” In February 2024, the PSPF board of directors assigned
the task of writing the Garber Residence Class 1 Historic Resource nomination to Steven Keylon.
E X E C U T I V E S U M M A R Y
SIGNIFICANCE:
The Garber Residence is a custom-designed residence at 2455 Southridge Drive in Palm Springs’ exclusive
Southridge development. The house was designed in 1970 by architect Richard A. Harrison, collaborating with
interior designer Arthur Elrod. The house was owned by the Garbers for the rest of their lives, and
remarkably few changes were made to the house, and it was beautifully maintained, making it a nearly intact
example of Harrison’s work. The Garber Residence exhibits numerous character-defining features that place it
within the historical context of the Palm Springs Modern period. A period of significance for the house has
been established as 1972, the year the house was completed.
DESIGNATION CRITERIA:
Criteria for the Designation of a Class 1 Historic Resource: Pursuant to the Palm Springs Municipal Code
(PSMC) Section 8.05.070(C.1.): A site, structure, building, or object may be designated as a Class 1 Historic
Resource or a Contributing Resource in a proposed historic district by the Palm Springs City Council, provided
both of the following findings are met. Refer to the US Department of the Interior National Register Bulletin
“How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation” of potentially historic resources for further
information.
As outlined in the analysis beginning on page 25, the Garber Residence qualifies as a City of Palm Springs Class
1 historic resource.
The house possesses exceptional historic significance and meets the following two of seven of the eligibility
criteria outlined in Municipal Code Section 8.05.070(C,1,a): (iii): Exemplifying a particular period in local history,
and (v) Presents the work of a master architect, landscape architect and interior designer, each whose indi vidual
genius influenced their age (i.e., peers, profession), and possess high artistic value.
Furthermore, the site possesses a high degree of historic integrity as outlined in Municipal Code Section 8.05.070
(C,1,b) in terms of Design, Materials, Workmanship, Location, Setting, Feeling, and Association.
6
The historic context within which the Garber Residence was evaluated as outlined in the Citywide Historic
Context Statement & Survey Findings is The Post-World War II period 1945 – 1969. Its period of significance
is associated with the timeframe in which architect Harrison designed the house (early 1970), to its completion
in 1972.
7
APPLICATION
8
9
10
Statement of Significance
Summary
The Garber Residence, 1972, was designed by master architect Richard A. Harrison.
Location
The Garber Residence is located at 2455 Southridge Drive in Palm Springs’ exclusive Southridge development.
The Architect
Richard A. Harrison, AIA (1924-1995)
Richard A. Harrison, widely known as Rick Harrison, made significant strides in the field of architecture,
notably in partnership with Donald Wexler during the 1950s. Together, they formed one of the most
influential architectural firms in the desert, contributing to the development of what would later be
recognized as the Palm Springs School of Architecture. However, Harrison's career is equally distinguished,
marked by a series of noteworthy projects highlighting his unique artistic vision.
Born in San Pedro, California, Richard Arnett Harrison was raised in Los Angeles, where he attended
University High School, graduating in 1942. He initially worked for Pacific Aviation and subsequently spent
three years in the Navy as an instructor in aeronautical engineering. After World War II, Harrison enrolled at
11
the University of Southern California (USC), earning a Bachelor of Architecture in 1952. During his time at
USC, a hub for the post-and-beam architectural style and influenced by the Case Study House program from
Arts & Architecture magazine, Harrison honed his expertise in this USC style, which he later brought to his
partnership with Wexler, although he often did not receive due recognition for this contribution.
As articulated by Esther McCoy, the USC style is distinguished by its exposed wood post -and-beam structural
system, which achieves aesthetic appeal through an asymmetrical yet balanced arrangement of modular, in-fill
panels. This post-and-beam construction facilitated an open and flexible floor plan while fostering a strong
connection to the outdoors. Patios adjacent to rooms, visible through expansive glazing, extended the living
space and created transitional areas between the interior and exterior, embod ying the style's emphasis on
indoor-outdoor integration. In tribute to its Arts and Crafts origins, McCoy noted that a low-pitched gable
with wide eaves and exposed rafter tails typically crowned the building. The commitment to site-specific
design was equally important as any architectural feature, treating the existing topography as a partially
completed canvas. 1
While still at USC in 1951, Harrison began working as a draftsman for the renowned desert architect William
Cody. He contributed to significant projects, such as the working drawings for Cody’s iconic L'Horizon Hotel.
This experience was instrumental for Harrison, but it was his collaboration with fellow draftsman Donald
Wexler that became a pivotal aspect of his career.
Harrison joined the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 1957, with sponsorship from prominent local
architects E. Stewart Williams and John Porter Clark. After amicably parting ways with Wexler in early 1962,
Harrison embarked on a prolific and notable solo career. Although the split was reportedly due to differing
professional interests—Wexler leaning toward commercial and civic projects, and Harrison favoring
residential designs—Harrison's portfolio includes a surprising number of non-residential commissions.
Golf-related real estate developments were a significant aspect of Harrison’s career. His designs for the
Westward Ho Country Club (1962) in Indio, Canyon Country Club South clubhouse (1963), Palm Desert
Country Club (1966, unbuilt), and Marrakesh Country Club (1971) established his reputation in the niche of
golf clubhouse architecture in the Coachella Valley, mirroring the earlier success of William Cody.
Additionally, he designed residential units for the pioneering golf developer Johnny Dawson’s Seven Lakes
Country Club in Palm Springs (1967-72).
Harrison’s commercial architectural contributions include notable projects such as additions to the Sun
Center, as well as the Patencio Building (1965), which, with its intriguing geometrical forms, is another
standout project located on the bustling retail corridor of Tahquitz Canyon Way. Collaborations with
architect Howard Lapham led to the creation of the Palm Springs National Bank (1964) on South Palm
Canyon and the rustic modernity of the Smoke Tree Village shopping center (1964), designed to serve th e
growing South Palm Springs community.
Harrison also made significant contributions to religious architecture in the Coachella Valley. His design for
the University Baptist Church in Palm Desert (1966) is particularly noteworthy, featuring bold geometric
angles and a striking interplay of architectural solids and voids. Other religious projects include the Outdoor
12
Chapel at Desert Memorial Park (1971), the Our Lady of Solitude Parish Center (1974), and the Palm Springs
Church of Religious Science (1985).
In residential architecture, Harrison's work encompassed a variety of forms. Following his split with Wexler,
he designed over 170 houses in south Palm Desert for developers Cliff Henderson and Adrian Schwilck. His
multi-unit projects include the three-story Canyon View Condominiums (1966) for developer Roy Fey and the
luxurious condominiums at Seven Lakes Country Club (1967-72). Harrison’s design for the Albert Marx
Residence (1967) within the exclusive Tamarisk Country Club and the Garber Residence (1972) near the top
of Southridge, among other prominent architectural works, demonstrates his versatility and enduring impact
on the architectural landscape.2
SOUTHRIDGE
In the 1960s, residential development in Southern California shifted toward the hillsides as the availability of
flat, easily accessible land diminished. Engineering advancements facilitated the feasibility and cost -effectiveness
of hillside development, while the panoramic views from these elevated locations significantly enhanced their
attractiveness. Developers capitalized on this opportunity, with Southridge Estates in Palm Springs serving as a
notable example. This development utilized the desirability of hillside living to create a prestigious
neighborhood, catering to an elite clientele seeking exclusive and scenic residences.3
This was explained in dramatic text in Palm Springs Life in 1963: “Man’s eternal desire to reach for the stars is
reflected in his need to dwell on high ground. The magic combination of the most sun and the most water has
attracted people from all over the world to sun flooded Palm Springs and with many of them comes their
inborn need to reach for the heights.”4
13
Full-page advertisement for Southridge, “Palm Springs Life,” August 1963.
14
From “Palm Springs Life,” August 1963. The caption read “Southridge developers – Richard Rahn, seated, William Anable, left,
and E. Alan Petty.”
Conceived in 1959, Southridge was the idea of a group of unlikely partners. They included Richard Rahn, who
had been a contractor in Palm Springs for the previous fifteen years; Alan Petty, a former schoolteacher,
owner of the Herbert Burns-designed Desert Hills Apartment Hotel, and resident for fourteen years; and
William Anable, an assistant in the tile business and Palm Springs resident for five years. They were joined by a
limited partner. J. Overholtser, an Encino and Palm Springs investor.5
The partners bought approximately fifty acres, and in 1960, Tract 2082, with twenty-two parcels, was created.
They planned a second phase that would include twenty-four more homesites, however, that was scaled back
a bit. Tract 2082, subdivided in 1965, included twenty parcels.6 The lots varied in size and cost, from $25,000
to $65,000; the smallest lot was approximately 3,000 square feet.
From Highway 111, an impressive thirty-three-foot wide curbed and lighted palm-lined roadway was created,
leading to a gate with a guard house. “To insure privacy to the people who build in the Southridge
development, the partners are installing a new electronic gate, which will open when a signal is activated from
a car by the resident driver. Homeowners will also have keys which will be made available to guests they wish
to have enter the development, and during the daylight hours a guard is on duty to work the gate.”7 Once
through the gates, one “begins the mile-long Palm lighted drive toward the crest of the hills, he is impressed
15
with the exciting change of scene with every gentle turn and slope. Broad views open up the wonder of the
entire valley below unfolds ever changing patterns.”8
The developers created a comprehensive list of building restrictions to ensure the development would remain
cohesive and appealing. Homes had to be a minimum of 1,800 square feet, and roofs could not be higher than
the level of the lot behind it. “Colors and landscaping are kept to those favoring the entire project. The
developers even ask that plantings which discourage flies and bugs be used throughout”9
It was noted at the time that “the breathtaking views are protected for all time; they can never be blocked. All
utilities are underground, further the value of panoramic vistas from every angle.”10
First house completed at Southridge. From “Palm Springs Life,” August 1963.
The developers retained designers and builders Ross Patten and Duke Wild for the Southridge development
group, and several early houses were created by them. Other notable architects were William F. Cody, John
Lautner, Hugh Kaptur, Charles Du Bois, and George MacLean. Southridge attracted a host of famous people,
including actors Steve McQueen, William Holden, and Bob Hope.
16
Desert Sun advertisement, November 22, 1963.
The second phase of Southridge announced, Desert Sun, January 8, 1965.
17
The first phase of the development of Southridge, Tract No. 2082, in 1959, had twenty-two parcels available.
Tract 2928 was Southridge’s second phase, and offered twenty parcels.
18
ARCHITECTURE OF THE GARBER RESIDENCE
The Garber Residence is a roughly 2,700-square-foot custom-designed single-family residence. Designed by
architect Richard A. Harrison on an eight-foot grid, the post-and-beam home features a large combination
living-dining room with a fireplace, and an adjacent study. The house has two bedrooms and two-and-a-half
bathrooms. The house utilizes simple materials to create an exceptional custom home: besides the dark
brown-painted wood posts and beams, the house is built using 8”x6”x16” off-white split-face concrete block,
heavily-textured off-white stucco, with anodized bronze-tinted aluminum-framed glass sliding doors, fixed
glazed panels, and windows. While much of the house had a flat roof, the central volume over the spine of the
house has a pitched roof, covered in terra-cotta barrel roof tiles. White dolomite stone veneer embellishes
the fireplace. Preliminary plans featured a white crushed rock “Tropicool” roof on the pitched roof, but that
was replaced during construction with barrel roof tiles. (Granada “Ramon” one-piece straight barrel (smooth)
was indicated by architect Harrison on the as-built drawings).
CARPORT:
The house begins on Southridge Road, with a three-car covered post-and-beam carport. (4”x6” posts with
6”x14” beams; four 6”x14” posts from where the carport roof shades entry court below, these posts rest on
top of the house or pass through the house?). The left wall of the carport is a heavy double wall of blocks; the
back wall block has a closet; the right wall is open with a pony wall; with an 8”x6”x16” off-white split-face
concrete block wall surrounding it. On the back wall of the carport, a decorative square panel of veneer tiles
with circular patterns was created with marble chips in gold with white circles. (Similar to panels at J. W.
Robinson’s). There is a storage closet on the right behind doors, with utilities on the left of the decorative
panel, behind doors. At street level is a block half wall, with a block planter in front. This leads to the stairs
which take you down to the entry garden.
ENTRY GARDEN:
From the carport, on the right, is a stairway down to the entry court below. There is one flight of stairs, with
a landing, and then another flight down to the entry court. The stairs are covered in square terrazzo tiles,
which use a white cement ground, with a mix of large and smaller aggregate marble chips in browns, grays, and
tans.
From the terrazzo tile steps, one descends to a terrazzo tiled landing, enclosed on two sides by an “L”-shaped
planting bed against the glazed walls of the dining area and adjacent hallway. A rubber tree towers over small
palms planted in a gravel bed.
From this landing, a narrow access path runs along the side of the house to the pool area. On the other side,
the path is steep hillside.
An ornate wrought iron lantern hangs to one side of heavily carved wood double doors with brass casket
handles.
19
Through the double doors is an 11’x8’ foyer. Here, as in many of the house's public rooms, the flooring is a
distinctive creamy-beige textured, rectangular glazed tile, emulating the off-white split-face brick used
elsewhere on the house.
LIVING/DINING ROOM
From the foyer, one enters a very large, roughly 18’x39’ combination living/dining room. Though still primarily
a post-and-beam house, this room features a pitched roof and has triangular clerestory windows on each end.
The beams for the flat roof run through this pitched volume. Except for a fireplace, the space is enclosed on
two sides by sliding glass doors, offering expansive vistas across Palm Springs below. The creamy glazed tile
surrounds a huge off-white wool rug in the living room. The room was designed around this carpet, and the
tile was not installed underneath for economy.
Though the spectacular views command the eye, the living room's focal point was a large fireplace, a massive
rectangular volume going from inside to out, the entire volume clad in dolomite stone veneer in shades of
white, beige, tan, and gray. The squared chimney on the exterior is constructed of the off-white split-face
concrete block.
The dining area features a wall clad in the same dolomite veneer as the fireplace, with a door to the kitchen.
KITCHEN
The roughly 14’x17’ kitchen has a “U”-shaped working space, with woodgrain laminate cabinets below and a
white Formica countertop. The upper cabinets are clad in a vivid orange Formica. There is room for a
breakfast nook in the room.
There is a built-in desk with a large window facing the entry garden.
DEN
The comparatively small den (roughly fourteen by fifteen feet) is accessed via the living room through a large
opening with an accordion wood-grained door. This cozy spot is entirely paneled in wood, with adjustable
wood bookshelves on one wall. There is also a bar in this room, with a white Formica countertop.
BEDROOMS
Down a long hall are the two bedrooms. The first bedroom is just beyond the kitchen, and adjacent to the
large storage room and laundry area on the other side of the hallway. This roughly 14’x16’ bedroom has its
own bathroom. At the end of the hallway, a door leads to the primary bedroom suite. This consists of a
16’x16’ bedroom, a walk-in closet, and a primary bathroom.
OUTDOOR AREA AND LANDSCAPE
The largest outdoor area is at the north of the site. Here a large Kool Deck paved patio features a large
14’x28’ swimming pool. Steel railing at the perimeter prevents people from dropping off the steep cliff below.
From the northeast corner of this patio, stairs go up to Southridge Drive, through an arched opening. Palms,
oleander, and a row of Italian Cypress are planted along Southridge.
20
Back down again, the patio continues along the western edge of the residence, coming to a point outside the
dining and kitchen areas. A single Mexican fan palm is planted just beyond the concrete. The patio then comes
back in again toward the master suite and wraps around to the south side of the residence, creating a walkway
along the house in the service area. Various shrubs are planted in the area bordering the patio.
Character-Defining Features of the Garber Residence
Contributing Elements:
• Contemporary post-and-beam flat-roofed residence with a pitched roof volume over the living/dining room.
This volume is covered in terra-cotta barrel tile.
• Off-white split-face concrete brick.
• Open carport.
• Heavily trowelled off-white stucco.
• Kool Deck patio with swimming pool.
• Anodized bronze aluminum sliding glass doors and windows.
• Dolomite stone veneer.
• Off-white large aggregate terrazzo tile.
• Decorative tiles with circular patterns of marble chips in gold with white.
CHANGES OVER TIME
The Garber Residence is almost completely intact, having had only one prior owner.
In 1983, architect Rick Harrison returned to design a proposed second story for the house, which would
include three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The addition would have been over the existing first-floor
bedrooms and part of the kitchen. The addition was never constructed. Harrison’s drawings are below.
21
22
In 1986 the roof was replaced, and in 2007, two furnaces were replaced.
23
FIRST OWNERS: HARRY AND BETTY GARBER
From the Desert Sun, June 16, 2013, B10:
“Harry Garber, MD passed away at home on May 21, 2013, with his loving wife of 67 years holding his hand,
and Jeanne Meunier, who had taken superb care of him for 3½ years, close by. Harry was born in Chicago on
April 21, 1923, to Morris and Yetta Garber, who had immigrated to the United States from Poland. Harry
came from humble beginnings. His father was a baker, and the family lived in a 4-room apartment. Harry and
his two younger siblings slept in one bed. Their uncle, who was a pharmacy student, slept at the foot of the
bed. He used to say, “Harry, be a doctor.” However, his parents had other plans for him. They wanted him to
be a rabbi. Therefore, he started Hebrew School at age six, and later studied at the Yeshiva, first in Chicago
and then in New York. From a young age, Harry’s teachers discovered he had a beautiful voice, and he sang in
the synagogue choir, where the boys were the altos and sopranos, and the men were the tenors and basses.
When Harry was 17, he started to take voice lessons. There he met Betty Jeanne Goldman, age fourteen. He
was impressed with her beautiful coloratura soprano voice. Little did he know that five years later she would
become his wife. In 1941, World War II began, and Harry joined the Navy Air Corps. After a year of flying
open cockpit bi-planes, he was transferred to the V-12 pre-med program, because the country needed
doctors. He went to Northwestern University and received a Bachelor of Science degree. He then went to
the University of Illinois Medical School, where he received his M D degree. The war ended, and he and Betty
were married on December 31, 1945, the day Harry was discharged from the Navy. While going to medical
school, Harry also studied to be a cantor in the synagogue. He continued to study voice, became a cantor and
24
then achieved his ambition to sing solo roles in the Lyric Opera of Chicago. He also did concerts for Columbia
Musical Artists and traveled around the Midwest doing programs for Community Concerts, while practicing
medicine at the same time. Dr. Garber also spent two years in the Army during the Korean War and
practiced Obstetrics and Gynecology in Yokohama, Japan, where he delivered over 300 babies. He then
practiced medicine in the Chicago suburbs for seventeen years. In 1970, Harry, Betty and daughter Hi lary
moved to Palm Springs where Harry practiced Obstetrics and Gynecology until the year 2000. Harry, with
hard work and a lot of drive, accomplished all the things he wanted to do. He was a Board Certified
Obstetrician and Gynecologist, a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and a
Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He also was a Full Professor at the University of Southern
California and drove into Los Angeles every Friday morning to teach the gynecology students. He is survived
by his wife Betty, daughter Adrienne Garber, son Dr. Elliott Garber, son Darryl Garber, MD, daughter-in-law
Lisha Garber, daughter Hilary Harrington, and son-in-law John Harrington. He is also survived by his brother
George Garber, brother Sam Garber, sister-in-law Marietta Garber, four grandchildren, and two great-
grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his sister Lillian Feder and daughter-in-law Jan Garber.”
In a Desert Sun article from 1987, Betty Garber was described as a “cute coed” at Northwestern who was
enrolled in the School of Speech, whose classmates included Charlton Heston and Patricia Neal. The article
continued:
Young Harry was a pre-med student. Well, Betty got pregnant as brides often do Harry went on to
the University of Illinois School of Medicine, and Betty graduated from Northwestern six weeks before
the baby was born “It wasn’t so fashionable to be pregnant at Northwestern 39 years ago," Harry said.
Afterward, Betty published an article in American Baby magazine called “Baby Goes to College.” Now,
of course, Harry is a gynecologist and Betty is a marriage and family therapist (By the way she got her
doctorate at Pepperdine).11
The Desert Sun article pointed out that:
Both are at Eisenhower Medical Center Their three children are Hillary, that baby who went to
college. Adrienne and Darryl, now a pathologist at EMC. Sixteen years ago the Garbers built one of
the first hilltop homes in the Southridge area of Palm Springs. Bob and Dolores Hope are the Garbers’
closest neighbors. Matter of fact, it was they who called the fire department when the Hopes’ home
burned down several years ago.
BACKGROUND / HISTORIC CONTEXT
The relatively short history of Palm Springs can be organized into several distinct periods, as defined by the
Historic Resources Group’s Citywide Historic Context Statement & Survey Findings. These include the following:
• Native American Settlement to 1969
• Early Development (1884-1918)
• Palm Springs between the Wars (1919-1941)
• Palm Springs During World War II (1939-1945)
25
• Post-World War II Palm Springs (1945-1969)
EVALUATION:
CRITERION 1 – Significant Events - The resource is associated with events that have made a
meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community: The Garber Residence is not affiliated
with significant events and does not qualify under Criterion 1.
CRITERION 2 – Significant Persons - The resource is associated with the lives of persons who made a
meaningful contribution to national, state, or local history: The Garber Residence was built for Harry and
Betty Garber. Neither individual rise to the level of a significant person. The Garber Residence is not
affiliated with significant persons and does not qualify under Criterion 2.
CRITERION 3 - The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, state, or local
history: The Garber Residence, designed in early 1970 and completed in 1972, exhibits many stylistic markers
that place it directly in the historical context of Palm Springs’ “Post-World War II Palm Springs” period. Though
that period ends in 1969 in the Historic Resources Group City Survey from 2015, the Garber Residence was
designed just a few months after the end of 1969 and fits into this historic context. This custom -designed
residence represents a prime example of significant Postwar architecture for which Palm Springs is
internationally known. The home was designed by a top-notch architect for a spectacular lot at the exclusive
Southridge development. This custom contemporary post -and-beam structure uses simple materials to create
an elegant and luxurious residence. While modern in spirit and function, with off-white split-face concrete block
and bronze-anodized sliding glass doors, Harrison used materials and textures like heavily trowelled stucco and
red clay roof tiles that honored the Spanish Colonial roots of early Palm Springs. The Garber Residence may be
viewed as an essential component of the historical trends that have come to define Palm Springs’ image as a
center of notable Modern architecture and landscape architecture, i.e., a historical movement that exemplifies
a particular period of the national, state, or local history. As a remarkably intact example of this period,
the Garber Residence qualifies for listing as a Class 1 Historic Resource on the local registry
under Criterion 3.
CRITERION 4—The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of
construction: The Garber Residence was built using simple but high-quality materials and conventional building
methods. Because this Criterion looks for distinctive, unique, or unusual methods of construction, the Garber
Residence does not qualify for listing as a Class 1 Historic Resource on the local registry under
Criterion 4.
Criterion 5: The resource presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose
individual genius influenced his or her age; or that possesses high artistic value.
High artistic values may be expressed in many ways, including areas as diverse as community design or planning,
engineering, and sculpture. Master architect Richard A. Harrison is one of the Coachella Valley’s most admired
and influential architects, primarily for his work in partnership with Donald Wexler. Harrison’s own architectural
26
training at USC immediately following World War II instilled in him the “USC Style,” site -specific post-and-
beam architecture, a style which he mastered. The Garber Residence features Harrison’s signature post -and-
beam construction but deviates a bit by using materials associated with Palm Springs’ earlier Spanish Colonial
Revival roots in a wholly contemporary way. Therefore, for its distinctive characteristics representing
the Midcentury Modern style, as a master architect's work, and its high artistic va lues, the
Garber Residence qualifies as a Class 1 Historic Resource under Criterion 5.
Criterion 6: (That represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack
individual distinction). This Criterion was created to address the resources contained within a potential
historic district, and as such, it does not apply to this nomination. Hence, the Garber Residence does not
qualify under Criterion 6.
Criterion 7: (That has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to the national, state or
local history or prehistory.) The Garber Residence is not likely to yield information important to the national,
state or local history or prehistory. Hence, the Garber Residence does not qualify under Criterion 7.
SUMMARY: This evaluation finds The Garber Residence eligible for listing as a Palm Springs Historic Resource under
8.05.070 C.1. a., paragraphs 3 and 5 of the local ordinance’s seven criteria.
Integrity Analysis (using US Secretary of Interior Standards)
INTEGRITY
Integrity is the ability of a property to convey its significance. To be listed in the local registry, a property must
not only be shown to be significant under the criteria, but it also must have integrity. The evaluation of integrity
is sometimes a subjective judgment, but it must always be grounded in an understanding of a property's physical
features and how they relate to its significance. Historic properties either retain integrity (that is, convey their
significance) or they do not. The definition of integr ity includes seven aspects or qualities. To retain historic
integrity a property will always possess several, and usually most, of the aspects. The retention of specific aspects
of integrity is paramount for a property to convey its significance. Determining which of these aspects are most
important to a particular property requires knowing why, where, and when the property is significant. The
following sections define the seven aspects and explain how they combine to produce integrity.
DESIGN
Design is the combination of elements that create the form, plan, space, structure, and style of a property. It
results from conscious decisions made during the original conception and planning of a property and applies to
activities as diverse as community planning, engineering, architecture, and landscape architecture. Design
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includes such elements as organization of space, proportion, scale, technology, ornamentation, and materials. A
property’s design reflects historic functions and technologies as well as aesthetics. It includes such considerations
as the structural system; massing; arrangement of spaces; pattern of fenestration; textures and colors of surface
materials; type, amount, and style of ornamental detailing. The Garber Residence has been meticulously
maintained by its original owners, Harry and Betty Garber. The a pplicants are the second owners of
the house and are restoring systems while preserving the original historic fabric and character, to
ensure the home’s integrity will remain intact for further generations.
MATERIALS
Materials are the physical elements that were combined or deposited during a period and in a particular
pattern or configuration to form a historic property. The choice and combination of materials reveals the
preferences of those who created the property and indicate the availability of types of materials and
technologies. The Garber Residence’s materials represent the best Midcentury Modern design, with
high-quality but simple off-white split-face concrete brick, terrazzo, heavily trowelled stucco, red clay
roof tiles, bronze-tinted aluminum, and glass. These original materials survive entirely intact.
WORKMANSHIP
Workmanship is the physical evidence of the crafts of a culture or people during any given period in history or
prehistory. It is the evidence of artisans’ labor and skill in constructing or altering a building, structure, object,
or site. Workmanship can apply to the property as a whole or to its individual components. It can be expressed
in vernacular methods of construction and plain finishes or in highly sophisticated configurations and ornamental
detailing. It can be based on common traditions or innovative period techniques. Workmanship is important
because it can furnish evidence of the technology of a craft, illustrate the aesthetic principles of a historic or
prehistoric period, and reveal individual, local, regional, or national applications of both technological practices
and aesthetic principles. Examples of workmanship in historic buildings include tooling, carving, painting, graining,
turning, and joinery. The Garber Residence displays architect Rick Harrison’s meticulous attention to
detail in methods of workmanship. While most of the home’s materials are humble and not
extraordinary, decorative features like the geometric aggregate wall tiles, glazed tile flooring,
distinctive stone veneer, and hand-trowelled heavy stucco display the work of talented artisans.
LOCATION
Location is the place where a historic property was constructed or the place where a historic event occurred.
The relationship between the property and its location is often important to understand why the property was
created or why something happened. The actual location of a historic property, complemented by its setting,
is particularly important in recapturing the sense of historic events and persons. Except in rare cases, the
relationship between a property and its historic associations is destroye d if the property is moved. The Garber
Residence remains in its original location and, therefore, qualifies in this aspect.
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SETTING
Setting is the physical environment of a historic property. Whereas location refers to the specific place where
a property was built or an event occurred, setting refers to the character of the place in which the property
played its historical role. It involves how, not just where, the property is situated and its relationship to
surrounding features and open space. Setting often reflects the basic physical conditions under which a property
was built and the functions it was intended to serve. In addition, the way in which a property is positioned in its
environment can reflect the designer’s concept of nature and aesthetic preferences. The Garber Residence
was built in the exclusive Southridge development. Southridge was developed so homesites would take
advantage of their spectacular views sweeping over the valley floor and the mountains beyond. Strong
architectural guidelines have ensured that only the finest structures and landscapes are built and
meticulously maintained. Thus, the setting remains intact.
FEELING
Feeling is a property’s expression of the aesthetic or historic sense of a particular period. It results from the
presence of physical features that, taken together, convey the property’s historic character. For example, a rural
historic district retaining original design, materials, workmanship, and setting will relate the feeling of agricultural
life in the nineteenth century. The Garber Residence’s design is evocative of the transitional period in
which it was designed and built. Harrison mastered the post-and-beam style while at USC and working
in partnership with Donald Wexler. Here, he begins exploring materials associated with Palm Springs’
earlier Spanish Colonial history and incorporating them into his signature modernist aesthetic. The
Garber Residence has a scale and presence which still blends well into this unique collection of top -
rate, one-of-a-kind custom residences by the all-star architects of the period. Accordingly, the Garber
Residence retains its original integrity of feeling.
ASSOCIATION
Association is the direct link between an important historic event or person and a historic property. A property
retains association if it is the place where the event or activity occurred and is sufficiently intact to convey that
relationship to an observer. Like feeling, association requires the presence of physical features that convey a
property’s historic character. For example, a Revolutionary War battlefield whose natural and man-made
elements have remained intact since the eighteenth century will retain its quality of association with the battle.
Because feeling and association depend on individual perceptions, their retention alone is never sufficient to
support the eligibility of a property for the National Register. The Garber Residence is an important example
of a custom-designed Midcentury Modern private residence in Palm Springs. Accordingly, it continues
its association with a pattern of events that have made a meaningful contribution to the community.
As a prime contributor to the famed Southridge development, it is an important landmark that helps
to tell the history of the Midcentury Modern phase of the development of Palm Springs. Also, its
association with master architect Richard Harrison reinforces that history.
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INTEGRITY SUMMARY: This integrity analysis confirms that the site, structures, and landscape of the
Garber Residence still possess seven aspects of integrity. The Garber Residence is an elegant custom-
designed residence by master architect Richard A. Harrison. The Garbers commissioned the home and
lived in it for the remainder of their lives, making remarkably few changes, and maintaining it to an
excellent standard. It is a key contributor to th e exclusive and important Southridge development. In
summary, the Garber Residence still possesses an exceptionally high degree of integrity sufficient to
qualify for designation as a Class 1 Historic Resource.
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APPENDIXES
OWNER LETTER OF SUPPORT
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Assessor’s Map and Aerial
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General Information
Property ID Number
(PIN/APN)
510260024
Property Address 2455 SOUTHRIDGE DR
Property Type Single Family Dwelling
Tax Rate Area (TRA) 011-003 PALM SPRINGS
Approximate Lot Size 47,480 SqFt / 1.090
acres
Legal Description LOT 6 MB 052/046 TR
2928
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Building Permits
Date Owner Permit Type Description of Work
09-18-70 Dr. and Mrs.
Garber
Building Grading permit per plan on file in Dept. of
Plan & dev. 150 cu yds.
09-18-70 Dr. and Mrs.
Garber
Building Const 120 lineal ft. of retaining wall (Raised
foundation for carport)
Also: approx. 58 ft. of retaining wall at NW
corner of bldg. site.
10-06-70 Dr. and Mrs.
Garber
Building Const 5 room masonry, wood frame and
stucco dwelling with attached carport. (Split-
level design on hillside lot).
10-16-70 Dr. and Mrs.
Garber
Building Const conc. gunite swimming pool in the
north side yard. Size: 16 & 19 W. x 34 ft.
[Palm Pools contractor]
11-05-70 Dr. Garber Plumbing 1 Private Sewage Disposal System
01-26-71 Harry Garber Electrical 90 outlets including switch & light outlets; 28
light fixtures; 1 meter loop; 1 temporary
service; 2 - 220 volt outlets; 2 - all fixed
appliances 110 volt.
01-27-71 Dr. Harry
Garber
Plumbing 2 bathtubs; 4 lavatories; 1 laundry tray; 2
showers; 2 sinks; 1 garbage disposal; 1
dishwasher; 1 auto. washer; 1 water piping; 2
water heater; 5 gas outlets; 1 permit fee.
04-30-71 Dr. Garber Mechanical 2 – over 100,000 b.t.u; 2 – to and incl. 15 h.p.,
or to and inclu 500,000 b.t.u.
10-27-71 Dr. H. Garber Building Construct 8’ high X 42’ retaining wall on
common property line
05-10-72 Dr. Garber Certificate of
Occupancy
Signed by Harold A. Betz, Chief Building
Inspector.
01-18-06 Harry & Betty
Garber
Building Clean and prepare existing roof and reroof
with fibertite roof system per Manufacturers
specs and UBC. 1 layer Denz Deck and
fibertite roof systems.
07-20-17 Betty Garber Building Replace 2 furnaces and coils
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Chain of Title
Primary sources show the chain of ownership for the Garber Residence as follows:
February 11, 1970 Southridge Development Company, a limited partnership, to Harry Garber and
Betty Garber, husband and wife.
December 19, 2023 Elliott Mitchell Garber, Successor Trustee of Garber Family Trust – Survivor
Trust dated November 24, 1981 to David J. Brinkman and William J. Grimm, as
trustees of the Brinkman Grimm Trust dated December 9, 2021.
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HISTORIC PHOTOS
Early 1971 Harry Garber looking at early construction
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April 1971 – House during construction
November 1971 – House during construction
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1972 – Newly completed house showing bedroom windows and western façade.
Early 1973 – The completed house with Palm Springs in the distance.
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Early 1973 – From the carport looking over the roof of the house.
Early 1973 – The northwest corner of the house.
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Early 1973 – View from the street showing portion of carport and red-tiled roof.
December 1975 – Garber Residence at far left, showing construction of the John Lautner-designed Bob Hope House.
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December 1975 – The Bob Hope House under construction, with Garber Residence in foreground at left.
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December 1975
42
December 1975
December 1976. The Hugh Kaptur-designed William Holden residence is seen under construction in the foreground.
43
Contemporary Photos
Photos by Author, April 2024.
Looking west from Southridge Drive, showing carport and entry stairs.
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Post-and-beam carport with storage closets at rear.
The rear wall of the carport features a geometric decorative panel created using tiles made from marble chips.
45
Detail of marble chip decorative tiles.
The stairs leading from carport area below to entry. Post-and-beam over off-white split-face concrete block. Floor is terrazzo tile.
46
View northwest over the house from the entry stairs.
View over the house from the top of the entry stairs.
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View north over the house from the top of the entry stairs.
The entry stairs seen from the entry area at front door.
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Stairs leading from street and carport to entry area garden.
Detail of the off-white split-face concrete block
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Detail of the entry stair terrazzo tiles.
The entry area at the front door.
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The double door entry to the house.
View of dining area from entry hall.
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The living room
The dining area.
52
View of dining area into kitchen, with hallway to bedrooms at left.
The primary rooms feature creamy glazed ceramic tile flooring. A large section has no tiles placed, and is covered by a large off-
white rug in the same dimensions.
53
View from living/dining area toward entry hall
Looking toward hallway to bedrooms and the kitchen. The wall in the dining area is clad in Dolomite stone veneer.
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Woodgrain cabinets in kitchen with original hardware.
Upper cabinets are clad in tangerine laminate.
55
Desk area in kitchen looks over entry garden.
Enormous walls of glass overlook pool area, with den showing beyond.
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Wood paneled den.
View from pool of house and carport above.
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South facing façade shows post-and-beam house with pitched roof volume.
Looking northwest from pool area to valley below. The restored chaise lounges are original to the house.
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View of house from pool area.
West façade showing Dolomite stone veneer on fireplace, with chimney constructed using the same off-white split-face block as
the house.
59
Door hardware detail, bronze-anodized sliding glass door.
Pitched clay tile-roofed volume of living room, with bronze-anodized sliding glass doors.
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West-facing façade.
Exterior wall showing kitchen area.
61
Bedroom exterior.
Looking toward bedroom from service area.
62
The long corridor leading from entry area toward pool area.
Looking toward entry stairs from corridor.
63
Pool and house seen from street.
Arched wrought iron gate leads from street level to pool.
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1 “Writing our own program: The USC experiment in modern architectural pedagogy, 1930 to 1960.”
Howell-Ardila, Deborah. University of Southern California ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, 2010. 1484253.
pages 13-14
2 Adapted from the chapter on Harrison in Steve Treinen’s upcoming book Canyon Country Club: The History
and Design of Palm Springs' Garden of Eden, which will be released in 2025 by PSPF.
3 Palm Springs Historic Resources Inventory & Context Statement. Historic Resources Group, 2015.
4 “Southridge: Casual Elegance, Hilltop Living,” Palm Springs Life, August 1963, 13-16.
5 “Southridge Provides New PS Landmark,” Desert Sun, October 27, 1961, 7
6 “Southridge: Casual Elegance, Hilltop Living,” Palm Springs Life, August 1963, 13-16.
7 “Southridge Provides New PS Landmark,” Desert Sun, October 27, 1961, 7
8 “Southridge: Casual Elegance, Hilltop Living,” Palm Springs Life, August 1963, 13-16.
9 “Southridge: Casual Elegance, Hilltop Living,” Palm Springs Life, August 1963, 13-16.
10 “Southridge: Casual Elegance, Hilltop Living,” Palm Springs Life, August 1963, 13-16.
11 “Allene Arthur: The subject of parties is strictly academic” Desert Sun 10 February 1987, B1-2