Architect John Lautner was well-known for his dramatic designs, and his biggest piece was a custom home for Bob and Dolores Hope. Perched in the private neighborhood of Southridge, the estate dominates a corner lot with sweeping views of the entire Coachella Valley.
Hope’s 23,366-square-foot home was designed in 1973 by Lautner to resemble a volcano. The modernist structure is built of concrete and glass, with an undulating copper roof that rises to an open semi-circle at its center. The home was used primarily as a second residence for the Hope family and was the place where they entertained most often, inviting friends such as Tony Bennett and Glen Campbell to enjoy the views from the house.
In Palm Springs we stayed at this 3 bedroom mid-century modern Donald Wexler AIA designed home, with iconic butterfly roof design. It has been newly remodeled in 2012 – retaining the classic architecture while incorporating the modern amenities and comforts of 21st century living.
The start of the Araby Trail that leads past Bob Hope’s house. No dogs allowed? Sometimes we have to break the rules.
A couple of miles into the hike and I start to see the top of the volcano house. We made it to the top and had some amazing views of the Coachella Valley wind farm below. At PJHM, we know a bit about renewable energy. One of our latest projects at Rim Of The World School District was installing photovoltaic panels and four wind turbines.
In the spirit of PJHM Goes Walking, it is customary to finish the day of with a beverage of choice. So it was back to a huge (50′) new sparkling salt water pool with the amazing view of the nearby Palm Springs Mountains (Mt San Jacinto) and a cold drink to finish off the hike….ahhhh. 
Stay up to date on PJHM News! Follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER!