Kaufmann Desert House Breaks Record for Palm Springs’ Most Expensive Home Sale

The Kaufmann Desert House, designed by Richard Neutra, has been an architectural gem in Palm Springs since its construction in 1946. Known for its geometric design and steel features, the home was a strong face of the modernist movement. Its unique architecture attracted photographers Julius Shulman and Slim Aaron, and it served as the backdrop of Aaron’s iconic circa-1970 photograph, Poolside Gossip. Now, in 2022, the home has a new claim to fame. It just became the most expensive home ever sold in Palm Springs. Though legendary properties dot the area—from Bing Crosby’s former home to Walt Disney’s—only one can boast such a title.

Listed for $25 million in October of 2020 and last asking $16.95 million, it closed off-market for roughly half that yet still managed to break this real estate record. Selling for $13,062,500, the deal overtook the 2016 sale of Bob Hope’s home for $13 million.

Perched on a site with panoramic views of California mountain ranges, it helps that many of the Kaufmann Desert House’s walls are floor-to-ceiling glass. Wood flows through on both the floors and ceilings, tying the space together with steel accents and natural stone for a sleek, organic feel. Within its 3,162 square feet, a new owner will find five bedrooms and six bathrooms as well as airy living areas. Outdoor spaces also abound, perfect for entertaining or easy lounging.

While art aficionados may know the pool best because of its photogenic qualities in Slim Aaron’s work, the 2.18 acres of land also include an additional rooftop relaxation area and a poolside pavilion. All of this is now in the new owner’s hands, with Gerard Bisignano of Vista Sotheby’s International Realty representing both sides of the sale.