Preservation Efforts

It is often difficult to appreciate how a historic building can be restored to its original beauty when it has been as neglected as the Town & Country Center, especially its restaurant (now Zeldaz). When viewed from the Indian Canyon side, Zeldaz' neglected landscaping, bland paint job, and abandoned storefront is an unflattering turn off. Yet, the harmful alterations to the Town & Country Restaurant can be reversed. In fact, there are many instances of buildings in far worse condition that have been successfully adapted to contemporary uses.

There are a number of approaches that could be considered for revitalizing the Town & Country Center and incorporating it into Developer John Wessman's downtown plan. Wessman's mixed residential and retail master plan concept is one such approach. In fact, when the Town and Country Center was built in 1947 it included retail on the ground floor and apartments on the second story, precisely Wessman's plan for the area. Additionally, in fulfilling the goal of opening up this part of downtown as a central plaza, perhaps the narrow alley that currently leads to The Center from Palm Canyon could be widened so that The Center's landscaped courtyard would be more inviting. Also, the parking lot located south of The Center could be converted into a landscaped area that blended with the existing courtyard.

The Palm Springs Modern Committee suggests that an open discussion between Mr. Wessman, downtown stakeholders, City officials, tourism experts, and the community can find a way to meet our shared goals of creating a vibrant downtown that incorporates retail, housing, open spaces, and views while celebrating Palm Springs' rich architectural heritage.