Travel Back in Time to William F. Cody’s Now-Razed Desert Modern
Featured in Monacelli’s new book, "Master of the Midcentury: The Architecture of William F. Cody," the 1963 Shamel Residence was emblematic of postwar Palm Springs.
Featured in Monacelli’s new book, "Master of the Midcentury: The Architecture of William F. Cody," the 1963 Shamel Residence was emblematic of postwar Palm Springs.
The following is an excerpt from Master of the Midcentury: The Architecture of William F. Cody
by Catherine Cody, Jo Laurin, and Don Choi with a foreword by Wim De Wit, published by Monacelli
Like many homeowners in the Eldorado Country Club development, Jennings and Anna Shamel built their fairway home as a winter residence for relaxed living and recreation, notably golf.
The roof structure protects the interior from direct sun and provides shade over the patio, pocket gardens, and part of the pool.
Julius Shulman photography archive © J. Paul Getty Trust, Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles (2004.R.10)
On a lot bordered on three sides by the tenth and thirteenth fairways, Cody created multiple layers of space to guarantee privacy without sacrificing the clients’ desire for an open, informal interior. The slender structure of the house, composed of 4-inch-square steel columns on a 12-by-12-foot grid, was all but invisible, allowing Cody maximum flexibility in planning.
The steps and landing are integrated with the pools and planters. Cody designed the sculptural exterior light fixture next to the entrance doors as a housewarming gift for the Shamels.
Julius Shulman photography archive © J. Paul Getty Trust, Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles (2004.R.10)
Motor court and front entrance, showing the fieldstone wall juxtaposed with wood beams, steel columns, and stucco walls.
Julius Shulman photography archive © J. Paul Getty Trust, Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles (2004.R.10)
See the full story on Dwell.com: Travel Back in Time to William F. Cody’s Now-Razed Desert Modern
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