Desert Holly Homes for Sale | Search for Homes in Palm Springs

Desert Holly Homes for Sale in Palm Springs, CA

Desert Holly is a unique 14-residence condominium community in Palm Springs' desirable Sunrise Park neighborhood. Built in 1957, this intimate mid-century modern development is recognized as one of the city's officially designated historic districts.

Located at 2244 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Desert Holly features eight low-profile buildings arranged around a central recreational courtyard and swimming pool. The development was constructed by Long Beach builder and developer William J. O'Brien Jr. and originally operated as a cooperative apartment community before converting to condominiums in 1998.

With its distinctive modernist architecture, private patios, intimate setting and central location, Desert Holly offers a rare opportunity to own a residence in an authentic piece of Palm Springs architectural history.

Desert Holly at a Glance

Location: 2244 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Neighborhood: Sunrise Park
Community Type: Historic condominium development
Number of Residences: 14
Number of Buildings: 8
Year Built: 1957
Builder and Developer: William J. O'Brien Jr.
Architect: Unknown
Architectural Style: International Style, Desert Regional Variation
Home Sizes: Approximately 740 to 1,122 square feet
Floor Plans: One-bedroom and two-bedroom residences
Outdoor Space: Private patios
Community Amenities: Central swimming pool and landscaped recreational courtyard
Historic Designation: Palm Springs Historic District, designated January 9, 2020
HOA: Yes

Welcome to Desert Holly

Desert Holly is one of those special Palm Springs communities where the architecture tells a story.

The development was designed around a central recreational area, with eight buildings containing 14 residences. The buildings create an intimate courtyard environment, with the swimming pool serving as the focal point.

Unlike many condominium communities constructed in later decades, Desert Holly retains much of its original 1950s architectural character. Its low horizontal rooflines, concrete block construction, wood detailing and private patios reflect the modernist design principles that helped establish Palm Springs as an internationally recognized architectural destination.

The small number of residences gives the property a distinctive neighborhood feel, while its Sunrise Park location provides convenient access to downtown Palm Springs, shopping, restaurants and the airport.

The History of Desert Holly

Desert Holly was built in 1957 by William J. O'Brien Jr., a Long Beach builder and developer.

Originally conceived as a 42-unit development, the completed project contains 14 residences arranged in eight buildings.

When first introduced, Desert Holly was marketed as a modern approach to desert living. Original advertising highlighted built-in kitchens, refrigerated air conditioning, private patios, fireplaces and recreational facilities.

The development originally operated as a cooperative, allowing owners to purchase an apartment along with an undivided interest in the underlying property. In 1998, the community converted to condominium ownership.

Its historical significance comes from its architectural character and its representation of a type of small seasonal apartment or hotel-style development that was popular in Palm Springs between approximately 1920 and 1965.

A Palm Springs Historic District

On January 9, 2020, the Palm Springs City Council unanimously approved Desert Holly's designation as an official local historic district.

The designation recognizes the community's architectural importance and its relatively high degree of historic integrity.

Architectural characteristics include:

Low horizontal building profiles
Load-bearing concrete block walls
Post-and-beam construction
Low-pitched roofs
Deep roof overhangs
Steel and glass elements
Private patios
An architectural relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces

The development is classified as International Style with a Desert Regional Variation.

Its historic designation makes Desert Holly especially appealing to buyers who appreciate authentic mid-century architecture and the preservation of Palm Springs' architectural heritage.

Homes and Floor Plans

Desert Holly offers two general residential configurations: one-bedroom and two-bedroom condominiums.

According to the historic district nomination and Riverside County assessor information, the residences range from approximately 740 to 1,122 square feet.

One-Bedroom Residences

The one-bedroom floor plans generally offer approximately 740 to 790 square feet, with one bathroom. These homes provide compact living spaces with private patios and access to the community's central courtyard.

Two-Bedroom Residences

The larger residences offer approximately 1,122 square feet, with two bedrooms and approximately 1.75 bathrooms according to assessor records.

Common features found in the original development included:

Built-in kitchens
Private patios
Fireplaces
Refrigerated air conditioning
Concrete block construction
Wood post-and-beam details
Living and dining areas
Large windows connecting interior spaces with the courtyard

Some residences have been remodeled with updated kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and contemporary appliances. Original architectural details vary from unit to unit.

Community Amenities

Desert Holly was originally designed around a shared recreational courtyard.

The principal community feature is its large central swimming pool, surrounded by the eight residential buildings.

Historically, the development also included:

Heated swimming pool
Shuffleboard courts
Nine-hole putting course
Recreational courtyard
Private patios

Some of the original recreational features have changed over time. The swimming pool remains the defining shared amenity of the community.

The intimate layout makes the outdoor courtyard an important part of the Desert Holly residential experience.

Location and Surrounding Area

Desert Holly is located at 2244 East Tahquitz Canyon Way in the Sunrise Park neighborhood of Palm Springs.

Its central location provides convenient access to downtown Palm Springs, Palm Springs International Airport, shopping, restaurants and recreational destinations.

The community is situated near Sunrise Way and East Tahquitz Canyon Way, with easy access to major streets connecting the city.

For local information, city services and community events, visit the City of Palm Springs and Visit Palm Springs.

Nearby Attractions and Things to Do

Downtown Palm Springs

Downtown Palm Springs offers restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, entertainment and seasonal events. Palm Canyon Drive is a popular destination for dining, shopping and exploring the city's resort atmosphere.

Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum features art exhibitions, educational programs and cultural events. Its collections include modern and contemporary art, architecture and design.

Palm Springs Air Museum

The Palm Springs Air Museum features an extensive collection of aircraft and exhibits focused on aviation and military history.

Moorten Botanical Garden

The Moorten Botanical Garden is a family-owned botanical garden featuring desert plants, cacti and succulents. Its Cactarium is a distinctive attraction for visitors interested in desert horticulture.

Demuth Park

Demuth Park offers approximately 61 acres of recreational space, including sports facilities, walking and biking paths, playgrounds and community activities.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway transports visitors from the desert floor to the upper elevations of Mount San Jacinto State Park, where visitors can enjoy mountain scenery, hiking and cooler temperatures.

Outdoor Recreation

Residents of Desert Holly can enjoy the community swimming pool or explore the many recreational opportunities available throughout Palm Springs.

Nearby parks offer tennis, pickleball, walking trails and open recreational areas. The surrounding mountain landscape also provides access to hiking and sightseeing destinations.

For information about city parks, recreation programs and facilities, visit the Palm Springs Parks and Recreation Department.

Schools and Education

Desert Holly is located within the Palm Springs Unified School District service area. School assignments depend on the specific residence and current district boundaries.

Families should verify school assignments, enrollment requirements and available programs directly through the Palm Springs Unified School District.

Who Might Enjoy Living at Desert Holly?

Desert Holly may appeal to buyers looking for:

Authentic 1950s mid-century modern architecture
A historically designated Palm Springs property
A small condominium community
One- or two-bedroom floor plans
Private patios
A central community swimming pool
A central Palm Springs location
A second home or desert getaway
A residence with architectural character and historical significance

The community may be especially interesting to architecture enthusiasts and buyers who appreciate the preservation of Palm Springs' mid-century residential history.

Important Things to Consider When Buying at Desert Holly

Before purchasing a residence at Desert Holly, buyers should review the individual property and the homeowners association's current documents.

Historic Preservation: Desert Holly is an officially designated historic district. Exterior modifications and certain improvements may require historic preservation review.
HOA Fees: Monthly assessments can change. Request the current HOA budget, assessment schedule and information about any special assessments.
HOA Services: Confirm which services are included in the monthly assessment, such as water, trash, landscaping, pool maintenance and exterior maintenance.
Rental Restrictions: Published rental information is inconsistent, with different sources reporting 30-day and 90-day minimums. Buyers should obtain the current written HOA rental policy and verify applicable city regulations.
Property Features: Fireplaces, patios, interior finishes and other features vary by residence. Confirm the condition and specifications of the individual unit.
Parking: Confirm the designated parking arrangement for the specific condominium.
Insurance: Review the association's master insurance policy and determine what additional coverage is needed for the individual residence.
Property Condition: Consider inspections of plumbing, electrical systems, roofing, HVAC and any remodeled areas.

The 2019 historic district nomination described the HOA as self-managed. Other property directories identify professional management services. Buyers should verify the current management arrangement directly with the association.

Frequently Asked Questions About Desert Holly

Where is Desert Holly located?

Desert Holly is located at 2244 East Tahquitz Canyon Way in the Sunrise Park neighborhood of Palm Springs.

How many homes are in Desert Holly?

The community contains 14 condominium residences arranged in eight buildings.

When was Desert Holly built?

Desert Holly was constructed in 1957.

Who developed Desert Holly?

The community was built by Long Beach builder and developer William J. O'Brien Jr.

Who was the architect?

The architect is listed as unknown in the historic district nomination.

Is Desert Holly a historic district?

Yes. The Palm Springs City Council approved its historic district designation on January 9, 2020.

What types of homes are available?

Desert Holly offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom condominium floor plans.

How large are the residences?

The homes range from approximately 740 to 1,122 square feet.

Does Desert Holly have a swimming pool?

Yes. The community features a large central swimming pool surrounded by the residential buildings.

Is Desert Holly on fee land or lease land?

The original cooperative marketing described ownership with a deed to the home and an undivided interest in the entire property. Buyers should verify the current legal ownership and title structure for the specific condominium.

Are short-term rentals allowed?

Rental minimums reported by different sources conflict. Buyers should obtain the current HOA rental rules and verify City of Palm Springs requirements before purchasing with rental income in mind.

Explore Homes for Sale in Desert Holly

Interested in finding a residence in Desert Holly? Explore available condominiums and compare floor plans, renovations, patio spaces, pool views and original architectural details.

Whether you are looking for a historic Palm Springs getaway, an authentic mid-century modern residence or a smaller condominium community with distinctive character, Desert Holly offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of Palm Springs history.

Discover the possibilities of living in Desert Holly, Palm Springs, California.