Even if you’re unfamiliar with the Palm Springs Woman’s Club, its pink clubhouse on South Cahuilla Road has likely caught your eye. Designed in 1939 by architect John Porter Clark — a trailblazer of Desert Modernism who collaborated with Albert Frey on the city’s public library and Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s Valley Station — the minimalist stucco structure stands apart from its Spanish Revival neighbors. “It was quite eye-catching at the time it was built,” says Frank Lopez, archivist at the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center.
An early example of the California modern style — “the forerunner to Palm Springs midcentury architecture,” Lopez notes — the building’s low-slung, unadorned design satisfied both the club’s needs and an expedited build schedule. It was designed to seat 150, include a space for serving tea, and accommodate larger events. The women raised $12,000 to fund the project. Los Angeles–based landscape architect Katherine Bashford donated plans for the garden of fan palms and pink oleander.
The clubhouse stands in the Historic Tennis Club neighborhood on a lot donated by Palm Springs pioneer and developer Pearl McCallum McManus. The Palm Springs Woman’s Club itself was the vision of Nellie Coffman, who ran the desert’s first wellness resort. She sought to unite women from different circles to foster camaraderie, educational opportunities, and philanthropy.
“Our mission has been the same since the beginning: dedication to intellectual improvement, social enjoyment, and helpfulness in the community,” club president Kitsy Adams says.
Initially part of the greater General Federation of Women’s Clubs, the club became independent in 1953 to save dues. Its scholarship program remains central to its mission, helping Palm Springs High School graduates pay for college. Residual funds support organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, and environmental charities.
Dine Like a Local Legend
Also in the Historic Tennis Club, Spencer’s Restaurant makes an ideal pit stop for a dirty martini if you’re out on a self-guided architecture tour. Known for elevated American cuisine, craft cocktails, and an award-winning patio, Spencer’s is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
