This panel conversation brings together Beth Edwards Harris, PhD, and Catherine Meyler, who each contributed heroic efforts to preserve Richard Neutra's legacy in Palm Springs. Catherine rescued the Grace Miller House (1936) from disrepair. Beth Harris rescued the Kaufmann Residence (1946) when it could have been sold as a tear-down.

Historian Alan Hess will moderate this discussion about the challenges and successes of these two restorations, regarded as significant milestones in the preservation of Palm Springs' architectural heritage, and the personal inspiration that led them to take on these efforts.

The Miller House was Neutra's first design in the desert, created for Grace Miller, a St. Louis widow starting a new life as an instructor in the Mensendieck System of dance and wellness. Neutra's progressive ideas aligned seamlessly with Miller's desert lifestyle. The Kaufmann House was commissioned by wealthy patrons Edgar and Liliane Kaufmann, who had notably worked with Frank Lloyd Wright on Fallingwater, pursuing Neutra's vision for a contemporary winter retreat in the desert.

Restoring historic homes often involves unexpected discoveries, surprises, and difficult choices. Attendees will gain insights into the unique technical hurdles and remarkable efforts that were undertaken to ensure that Neutra's vital contributions to the Palm Springs School are preserved for future generations to appreciate.

The discussion will examine how these influential clients shaped Neutra's designs, will provide insights into the unique experience of living in a Neutra-designed Residence, and ask how Neutra's ideas are still relevant today.