Sandcliff becomes first multi-family historic district in Palm Springs to join National Register

Sandcliff Garden Apartments received an official listing in the National Register of Historic Places on April 1, making it the first multi-family historic district in Palm Springs to achieve the national designation.

The South Palm Springs property located at 1800 South Barona Road joins the nation’s official list of cultural properties deemed worthy of preservation. Sandcliff was previously recognized by the city as a Historic District in 2016.

Built between 1960 and 1964 near Smoke Tree Ranch in what is now Araby Commons, the development represented a shift in Palm Springs residential planning. The community marked a move away from the city’s focus on single-family homes for wealthy residents toward more accessible housing options.

Developed by the Berkeley Square Company and designed by architect Sherwin L. Barton, Sandcliff is considered a superb example of Desert Modern architecture and the “lifestyle” condominium complexes that became popular throughout Palm Springs in the 1960s.

The garden apartment condominium concept offered middle-class buyers an alternative to traditional homeownership responsibilities while providing access to leisure lifestyle living. A 1960 advertisement in Palm Springs Life described Sandcliff as “more than just desert living, or a home away from home — it is actually a way of life.”

The development features desert modern architecture with one-story building profiles, geometric design, stucco walls and expanses of glass windows and doors. Private patios were designed to take advantage of mountain views, while decorative breezeblock walls serve both functional and design purposes.

“This is an extraordinary moment for our community,” said Fred Sousek, president of Sandcliff’s HOA. “Being listed in the National Register is not only a profound honor but also a testament to the rich history and unique character that defines our neighborhood.”

Sousek added that residents are excited to see their shared heritage recognized on a prestigious platform.

“It’s a source of immense pride and inspiration for us all as we continue to foster and preserve the legacy of this remarkable place for generations to come.”

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