April 29 Daily Briefing: Newest historic designation, latest on planned library updates, memorial planned, and more

Welcome to Monday everyone, where we’ve got historic buildings on our minds. Specifically, we’re thinking of the buildings in Palm Springs that come up for historic designation, and the documents prepared as various governmental bodies deliberate on them. If you’ve never read one of the staff reports that contain the documents (see recent examples here and here), we encourage you to do so whenever you get the chance. These aren’t ordinary staff reports, which by nature lean on the dry side. Instead, they contain detailed nomination applications, painstakingly researched and compiled by preservation experts. Kudos to all involved in bringing these documents to life — we are so fortunate to have you at work in our city!

🎶 Setting the mood: “Je te laisserai des mots” by Patrick Watson

LEADING OFF

Historic designation approved for Country Club Estates

The Palm Springs City Council unanimously approved historic district designation last week to Country Club Estates, a 30-unit condominium complex designed by famed modernist architect A. Quincy Jones in 1965.

Driving the news: The complex, located at the intersection of South Camino Real and East La Verne Way, was recognized for its exceptional representation of Palm Springs’ planning history and desert modern architecture. 

• The historic designation request was initiated by the HOA of Country Club Estates, with 23 of the 30 units supporting the nomination.

Of note: The Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) found that the site met two key criteria – representing an exceptional example of Palm Springs planning history from that era, and exemplifying the desert modern architectural style. The buildings also retain a strong design connection to the work of Jones.

• The complex features unique site placement, with each unit having convenient parking access and surrounding an internalized open space with the original swimming pool.

What they’re saying: “What I found really interesting about this project was that there was apparently only 5% of the city’s population that lived in multifamily residences,” Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein said, referring to the the point in history when the complex was built. “This really started a whole wave of medium density buildings in our city… And when we hear comments about denser housing, and sometimes it’s accompanied by negative comments, these are certainly beautiful.”

Bottom line: Country Club Estates becomes the city’s latest complex to be granted special protected status for its historic and architectural significance. This designation aims to preserve the key character-defining features that make it a quintessential example of Palm Springs modernism.

Yes, but: The council also discussed the historic designation of the M.H. Atikian Building at 120 West Arenas Road. A decision on that designation was postponed until later to allow the owner an opportunity to present their intentions for the building and any plans for restoration.

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BRIEFLY

📚 Library renovation plans solidifying; concerns over community input addressed

The Palm Springs Public Library is set to undergo a comprehensive renovation, aiming to enhance its role as a cultural and community hub. Details were shared with the City Council last week, and some concerns with community involvement were addressed. 

• Renovation plans shared at an April 25 City Council meeting include structural upgrades to meet current seismic codes, improvements to the building’s desert-adapted exterior, and modernization of its interior spaces. The project aims to respect the library’s original desert modern architecture while integrating contemporary technologies and flexible spaces for various community needs.
  
  
• Over 1,800 people contributed ideas for a renovation via surveys and outreach, yet some councilmembers worried the online survey misrepresented the city’s demographics, specifically young people and minority groups, notably Hispanic residents.
  
  
• Library Director Jeannie Kays informed councilmembers that the survey was merely one facet of extensive outreach, which saw significant participation from these underrepresented groups at in-person events.
  
  
• Bottom line: The project is funded fueled by a mix of state grants and city funds totaling approximately $13 million. It seeks to modernize the facility while preserving its architectural heritage. If all goes as planned, it should be completed in 2026.

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TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

Dog Park Community Meeting
5 p.m. | Demuth Community Center
Learn more about the project to enhance the large and small dog parks at Demuth Park and give suggestions to city staff and consultants working on the project.

Greg Wrenn book signing
5:30 p.m. | Best Bookstore
Enjoy an evening with Greg Wrenn, author of “MOTHERSHIP: A Memoir of Wonder and Crisis,” in conversation with Manuel Bentancourt (author of “The Male Gazed”) followed by a signing.

Mon Petit Salon
5 p.m. | Palm Springs Cultural Center
Experience world music with a French accent at Mon Petit Salon, hosted by violin virtuoso Jeremie Levi Samson. ($10)

Monday Men’s Coffee
6 p.m. | Gre Coffeehouse
Come have coffee and chat with other men about issues that are on your mind. No RSVP required — just drop in!

Fabulous Bingo
7 p.m. | Kings Highway at Ace Hotel
Join Bella Da Ball for a night of fabulous bingo. (Must spend $30 at Kings Highway to participate).

SAVE THE DATE

• Palm Springs Entertainment Convention on Saturday at the Palm Springs Convention Center.
  
• Desert Winds Freedom Band Concert on Saturday at Temple Isaiah.
  
• PSUSD Multicultural Festival on Saturday at the Palm Springs Air Museum.
  
• Miralon Blood Drive on May 17. Sign up today!
  
• Communities’ Finest Dance Showcase on May 18 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
  
• Palm Springs International ShortFest from June 18 -24.

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AND FINALLY …

A celebration of the life of Tony Bruggemans, a well-known hospitality professional whose career spanned six decades and five continents, is scheduled for today at the Hilton Palm Springs. Bruggemans passed away on Sunday, April 21, at the age of 80.

Driving the news: Bruggemans built an impressive resume that included significant roles in various international locations, including Micronesia, Tahiti, Bangladesh, Singapore, Indonesia, and South Africa. He was the founding general manager of the first 5-star hotel in South Asia and later became the CEO and managing director of the largest hotel chain in Indonesia.

Why it matters: As CEO of the Sahid International Hotel Management & Consulting Corporation, Bruggemans played a key role in developing Indonesia’s tourism industry.

• His efforts earned him rare recognition from the Indonesian government in 1995 when then-President Suharto awarded him the “Adikarya Wisata Trophy” for his contributions to the national tourism sector.

A lasting impact: Bruggemans was deeply cherished by many in the greater Palm Springs community. Friends and colleagues recalled his memorable stories, strength of character, and unwavering humor, painting a picture of a man deeply loved and respected.

Family and legacy: Although Bruggemans was proud of his many career milestones, his greatest accomplishment and joy was his family. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joanne, three daughters, Lauren, Terri, and Dominique, grandson Zachary, sons-in-law Phil and Jorge, his brother, Paul, and sister Christiane.

Details: The celebration takes place today from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Hilton Palm Springs, 400 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, with speeches and a toast beginning between 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. RSVPs are not required, but encouraged at this website.