Client Brief:
The clients wanted a home for their growing family that would not only offer stunning views of Camelback Mountain but also respect and complement the architectural history of its midcentury modern neighbor, Al Beadle’s iconic "White Gates."
Location:
The home is located in a unique Phoenix neighborhood, directly across from the famous midcentury modern "White Gates" house, which has remained vacant for decades. The site also features mature Date palm trees, including one prominent tree that stands near the entry. The design challenge was to create a new home that respected the legacy of its midcentury neighbor while taking advantage of the views and climate of the desert setting.
Design Solution:
To pay homage to the iconic midcentury design of "White Gates," we incorporated midcentury modern elements in fresh, contemporary ways. The house is named "White Dates," a playful nod to its neighbor and the Date palms that define the site. The layout of the house was driven by a desire to capture views of Camelback Mountain, positioning the great room and primary suite to make the most of these views. In the great room, floor-to-ceiling pocketing glass doors open on both sides, allowing for cool breezes and seamless indoor-outdoor living between the front and rear patios. The front patio connects the home to its midcentury roots through the use of breezeblocks, providing privacy from the road while focusing attention on the mountain beyond. A singular Date palm marks the entry of the home, growing through a triangular aperture to the sky—a reference to Albert Frey’s Palm Springs City Hall. The palm leaf also inspired design patterns throughout the home, including wood detailing behind the bar and a midcentury-style screen wall in the formal sitting area. The material palette is simple and restrained, allowing the mountain views and midcentury elements to shine. Flagstone walkways, concrete floors, and plaster in the primary bath create an earthy, textural feel, while cabinetry in walnut, white oak, and matte black offers a modern contrast.
Result:
"White Dates" bridges the past and present, creating a home that honors the legacy of midcentury modern design while adding a distinctly contemporary chapter to the neighborhood. With its integration of historical references and modern touches, the home provides stunning views of Camelback Mountain and effortless indoor-outdoor living, all while paying tribute to its iconic midcentury neighbor.
