Welcome to Sandcliff
Sandcliff, officially known as Sandcliff Garden Apartment Homes, is a distinctive condominium community in South Palm Springs. Located at 1800 South Barona Road in the Araby Commons area, this 40-residence development is recognized for its well-preserved mid-century modern architecture and landscaped grounds.
Designed by architect Sherwin L. Barton and developed by the Berkeley Square Company, Sandcliff was built between 1960 and 1964. The community represents an important period in Palm Springs residential development, when garden-style condominium living became an alternative to traditional single-family homes.
Sandcliff received designation as a City of Palm Springs Historic District in 2016 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2025.
Sandcliff at a Glance
Location: South Palm Springs, California
Neighborhood: Araby Commons
Property Type: Condominium residences
Number of Residences: 40
Development Size: Approximately five acres
Construction Period: 1960–1964
Architect: Sherwin L. Barton
Developer: Berkeley Square Company
Architectural Style: Desert Modern / Mid-century modern
Historic Designation: City of Palm Springs Historic District, 2016; National Register of Historic Places, 2025
Community Features: Two swimming pools, spa facilities, landscaped grounds and private patios
Homes and Floor Plans
Sandcliff consists of 40 condominium residences arranged throughout landscaped grounds. The development was designed with several floor-plan configurations, including one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts.
Many residences feature single-level living, open interior spaces and private patios designed to take advantage of the desert climate and surrounding mountain views.
Architectural features may include large windows and sliding glass doors, decorative concrete screen blocks, covered outdoor areas and original mid-century details. Some residences retain portions of their original cabinetry and finishes, while others have been updated or remodeled.
The size, layout and condition of individual residences vary. Buyers should review each property separately to understand its floor plan, interior improvements, outdoor spaces and parking arrangements.
Architecture and Historic Significance
Sandcliff is considered an important example of Desert Modern architecture and the garden-apartment condominium developments that became popular in Palm Springs during the 1960s.
Architect Sherwin L. Barton designed the development for the Berkeley Square Company. Its original concept emphasized a more relaxed residential lifestyle, combining private condominium living with shared outdoor amenities and landscaped common areas.
Several architectural details distinguish Sandcliff:
Concrete Screen Blocks: Decorative breeze-block walls provide privacy, shade and visual texture while allowing air and light to pass through.
Low-Rise Buildings: The one-story residential buildings maintain a relatively low profile and blend with the surrounding desert landscape.
Geometric Design: Simple forms, clean lines and understated exterior materials reflect the Desert Modern architectural style.
Private Patios: Outdoor living areas connect the residences with the landscaped grounds and mountain surroundings.
Indoor-Outdoor Living: Large windows and glass doors create connections between interior living spaces and private outdoor areas.
Sandcliff was originally marketed as a lifestyle-oriented condominium development, offering residents a recreational setting for both seasonal retreats and longer-term living.
The City of Palm Springs approved its historic district designation on February 3, 2016. In April 2025, Sandcliff became the first multifamily historic district in Palm Springs to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
For additional architectural information, visit the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation.
Amenities and Outdoor Spaces
Sandcliff was designed around shared outdoor spaces and recreational facilities. The community includes two swimming pools and spa facilities, along with landscaped grounds and outdoor areas.
Private patios provide additional living space for individual residences, while the landscaping creates a garden-style setting throughout the development.
The community's layout and recreational facilities reflect the original concept of condominium living that combined private residences with shared amenities.
Buyers should confirm current facility availability, condition and access arrangements through the homeowners association.
Location and Neighborhood
Sandcliff is located at 1800 South Barona Road in the Araby Commons area of South Palm Springs, near Smoke Tree Ranch and East Palm Canyon Drive.
The location provides convenient access to shopping, restaurants, grocery stores and everyday services. The Smoke Tree shopping area is nearby, while downtown Palm Springs offers additional boutiques, galleries, restaurants and entertainment.
The South Palm Springs setting also provides access to outdoor recreation, golf courses and some of the area's best-known desert landscapes.
Nearby Attractions and Local Places
Smoke Tree Commons and Smoke Tree Village: These nearby shopping destinations offer grocery stores, restaurants, retail shops and everyday services.
Indian Canyons: One of Palm Springs' best-known natural attractions, Indian Canyons features hiking trails, palm oases and scenic desert landscapes. Explore visitor information at Indian Canyons.
Tahquitz Canyon: Known for its desert scenery, hiking opportunities and seasonal waterfall. Learn more through the Tahquitz Canyon Visitor Center.
Moorten Botanical Garden: A family-operated botanical garden featuring desert plants, cacti and succulents from around the world. Visit the Moorten Botanical Garden.
Downtown Palm Springs: Palm Canyon Drive offers restaurants, boutiques, galleries, entertainment and seasonal events. Explore local visitor information through Visit Palm Springs.
Palm Springs Art Museum: Located downtown, the museum features exhibitions and collections involving art, architecture and design. Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: The tramway provides access to the mountain environment of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Find visitor information at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
Outdoor Recreation and Desert Lifestyle
Sandcliff's location provides access to a variety of outdoor activities throughout South Palm Springs.
Nearby Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon offer hiking opportunities and a chance to explore the desert landscape, native vegetation and mountain scenery.
Residents can also enjoy golf, neighborhood walks, local parks and the many recreational activities available throughout the Coachella Valley. The community's own pools, spa facilities and landscaped grounds provide additional opportunities to enjoy the desert climate.
Schools and Education
Sandcliff is located within the Palm Springs area served by the Palm Springs Unified School District. School assignments depend on the specific property address and may change over time.
Buyers should verify current school boundaries, enrollment requirements and available programs directly with the Palm Springs Unified School District.
Who Might Enjoy Living in Sandcliff?
Sandcliff may appeal to buyers who appreciate mid-century modern architecture, historic properties and condominium living in South Palm Springs.
Its relatively small number of residences, distinctive concrete screen-block details and landscaped grounds give the community a recognizable architectural identity.
The location may also appeal to full-time residents and seasonal homeowners who want convenient access to shopping, restaurants, golf and outdoor recreation.
Buyers interested in Palm Springs architectural history may find Sandcliff especially appealing because of its historic designations and preservation significance.
Things to Consider When Buying in Sandcliff
When evaluating a residence in Sandcliff, buyers should consider both the individual property and the community's historic designation.
Historic Preservation: Sandcliff is a designated historic district. Exterior alterations and certain improvements may be subject to historic preservation requirements and review. Buyers should investigate applicable guidelines before planning renovations.
Floor Plans and Condition: The residences have different configurations and may have undergone renovations over time. Review the property's actual layout, condition and improvement history.
Outdoor Spaces: Private patios and their orientation can vary. Consider privacy, sun exposure, landscaping and views.
Community Facilities: Review the current condition and availability of shared recreational amenities.
Association Documents: Obtain and review current association documents, financial information, insurance arrangements, maintenance responsibilities and architectural requirements.
Property Records: Confirm title information, recorded documents, permits and property-specific details through current public records and qualified professionals.
For additional information about the historic designation, consult the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sandcliff
Where is Sandcliff located?
Sandcliff is located at 1800 South Barona Road in the Araby Commons area of South Palm Springs.
Who designed Sandcliff?
Sandcliff was designed by architect Sherwin L. Barton and developed by the Berkeley Square Company.
When was Sandcliff built?
The development was constructed in two phases between 1960 and 1964.
How many homes are in Sandcliff?
The community contains 40 condominium residences.
Is Sandcliff a historic district?
Yes. Sandcliff was designated a City of Palm Springs Historic District in 2016 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places in April 2025.
What architectural features make Sandcliff distinctive?
The development is known for its Desert Modern design, low-rise buildings, geometric forms, decorative concrete screen blocks and private patios.
What amenities are available?
Community information identifies two swimming pools, spa facilities and landscaped common areas.
Do the residences have private patios?
Yes. Private patios are an important part of the original residential design, although their size and configuration vary by residence.
Where can I learn more about Sandcliff's history?
The Palm Springs Preservation Foundation provides information about the community's architectural significance and historic designation.
Explore Homes for Sale in Sandcliff
Interested in finding a home in Sandcliff? Explore available residences and compare floor plans, architectural features, private patios and locations within this distinctive historic community.
With its Sherwin L. Barton design, landscaped grounds and important place in Palm Springs architectural history, Sandcliff offers a unique opportunity to experience one of the city's notable mid-century condominium developments.
Community details, HOA fees, land ownership and rental requirements should be independently verified against current association and public records before publication.