547 N Farrell Dr., Palm Springs, CA

547 N Farrell Drive – A Mid-Century Meiselman in Sunrise Park

The home at 547 N Farrell Drive is a vivid reminder of why Jack Meiselman’s mid-century modern residences remain so beloved in Palm Springs. Built in 1960, this property is part of the Sunrise Park neighborhood—one of the city’s most significant concentrations of Meiselman homes. With its 1,360-square-foot interior set on a 0.23-acre lot, the house balances efficiency of design with a resort-style orientation toward outdoor living, embodying the principles of Desert Modernism that defined Meiselman’s work.

At its core, the architecture displays the unmistakable features of a classic Meiselman: post-and-beam construction, butterfly roofline, and large panes of glass that dissolve boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The open-concept layout creates a sense of volume and light, further emphasized by sliding doors and clerestory-inspired windows that frame views of the desert landscape. A central fireplace serves as a showpiece element in the main living area—both a functional centerpiece and a design statement true to mid-century ideals.

The home’s three-bedroom, two-bathroom layout is designed with both comfort and privacy in mind. A hallmark of Meiselman’s planning was the thoughtful separation of the primary suite from guest rooms, allowing for multiple functions within relatively modest square footage. Here, each bedroom opens directly onto a private patio, reinforcing the connection to outdoor living while offering quiet retreats for occupants and guests alike.

The kitchen has been adapted for contemporary use, featuring an oversized island that encourages gathering and hospitality while still respecting the home’s mid-century proportions. The fluid connection between kitchen, dining, and living areas reflects the leisure-oriented lifestyle that Palm Springs was famous for during the 1950s and 1960s—and continues to embody today.

The outdoor spaces extend this ethos beautifully. The backyard is designed as a private resort, complete with pool, spa, fire pit, and grassy lounge areas. The lot is both practical and versatile, offering multiple settings for entertaining or relaxation under the desert sun. Even the front and side areas contribute to the home’s functionality, with parking capacity for up to seven cars, including a gated RV pad and two-car garage—an unusual feature that enhances the home’s flexibility without detracting from its architectural clarity.

Neighborhood Context – Sunrise Park

As one of Palm Springs’ signature mid-century tracts, Sunrise Park features a high concentration of Meiselman homes built during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Known for its wide streets, generous lots, and sweeping mountain views, the neighborhood remains one of the best places to see Desert Modernism in its most authentic form. Its central location provides easy access to downtown, the airport, and Palm Springs’ vibrant dining and cultural scene. Today, Sunrise Park is celebrated not only for its architectural legacy but also for the way its homes remain eminently livable, combining historical design with contemporary comforts.

In all, 547 N Farrell Drive is a perfect example of how a Meiselman home can deliver timeless mid-century character while evolving into a modern-day retreat. With its iconic design elements, private bedroom patios, and resort-inspired backyard, it stands as both an architectural artifact and a fully realized Palm Springs lifestyle.