2097 N Berne Dr., Palm Springs, CA

2097 N Berne Drive – A Meiselman Classic in Racquet Club Estates

The home at 2097 N Berne Drive offers a vivid illustration of Jack Meiselman’s architectural legacy in Palm Springs. Built in 1959 during the peak of the mid-century modern development boom, this residence is part of the celebrated Racquet Club Estates neighborhood, an area synonymous with Desert Modernism and known for its strong concentration of both Alexander and Meiselman-built homes. With its 1,830 square-foot interior and expansive 11,767-square-foot corner lot, the house combines the timeless aesthetic of classic mid-century design with thoughtful contemporary upgrades that enhance comfort and livability.

From the moment you step inside, the home reveals its Meiselman pedigree. The vaulted living room, framed by exposed post-and-beam construction and tongue-and-groove ceilings, creates a dramatic sense of openness and light. Clerestory-style windows and wide expanses of glass invite in the desert sunshine while framing spectacular views of the San Jacinto Mountains. These architectural elements are not merely decorative—they are central to the Desert Modernist philosophy of blurring indoor and outdoor space.

The interior layout showcases Meiselman’s characteristic balance of practicality and elegance. The galley kitchen, redesigned with new cabinetry, countertops, and appliances, serves as the home’s central hub, efficiently dividing the primary suite from the guest bedrooms. This spatial separation, one of Meiselman’s signature planning strategies, ensures privacy for homeowners and guests while maintaining easy circulation throughout the house.

Flexibility is another hallmark of the design. Beyond the core living and dining areas, the home offers multiple rooms adaptable for modern needs—whether as a media lounge, recreation space, formal dining room, or large home office. This adaptability reflects how well Meiselman’s homes accommodate evolving lifestyles without losing their architectural character.

Outside, the property is transformed into a private desert retreat. Mature hedges surround the lot, providing seclusion, while multiple outdoor zones cater to entertaining, relaxation, and recreation. The pool and spa area, upgraded with resurfaced decking, new tiling, and smart pool controls, is complemented by a built-in firepit, outdoor shower, and even a putting green, blending leisure and luxury in true Palm Springs fashion. The west-facing backyard orientation offers dazzling sunset views against the San Jacinto range—an ever-changing backdrop that is integral to the experience of living in Racquet Club Estates.

Neighborhood Context – Racquet Club Estates

Developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s, Racquet Club Estates is one of Palm Springs’ most iconic mid-century neighborhoods. While much of the tract is associated with Alexander Construction Company and architects Palmer & Krisel, Jack Meiselman also built a number of homes here. His properties often stand out for their unique layouts, decorative concrete block elements, and emphasis on privacy. Today, Racquet Club Estates is prized for its strong architectural character, mountain views, and proximity to the city’s historic Racquet Club, a legendary gathering spot for Hollywood stars in the desert.

In sum, 2097 N Berne Drive represents the enduring appeal of a Meiselman home—efficient in layout, elegant in design, and deeply connected to its desert surroundings. By blending original features with carefully considered modern updates, this residence exemplifies the timeless livability of Desert Modernism.