Historic Landmark #6 Dedication - Casa Dorado

On December 5, 2023, Casa Dorado was recognized by the Indian Wells Preservation Foundation and the City of Indian Wells for its distinguished Mid-Century Modern Community and Clubhouse, designed in 1964 by Long Beach, California architects Richard L. Toper and Jess J. Jones.

The striking Clubhouse is a style that was experimented with by revered architects like E. Stewart Williams and Edward Durell Stone. Developer C.J. Bonner was the successful, effervescent mastermind.

Made with pre-cast concrete elements, it represents a freedom of form that allows for a new level of expression. Casa Dorado features 116 resort-style homes in a beautiful park-like setting and is one of the Coachella Valley’s first condominium resort communities.

The afternoon program began at 1:00 PM with HOA President Ron Henderson welcoming participants on the steps of the Clubhouse and thanking his Board, especially Secretary Phyllis McKinley and Landmark Dedication Committee members and guides for their tireless efforts. Then they were off on guided tours of the property including three showcase homes featuring: an authentic mid-century interior, a recent remodel focused on bringing the outdoors in, and an elegant revamp demonstrating modernized mid-century interior and furnishings with classic mid-century minimalism.

Over 60 Casa Dorado residents joined event participants for the official 3:00 PM dedication and unveiling of the new, stylish raised-bronze plaque commemorating the event. Speakers at the dedication included HOA President Ron Henderson, Indian Wells Mayor Donna Griffith, City Manager Chris Freeland, Modernism Week CEO Lisa Vossler Smith, and IWPF President Linda Blank.

Former Mayor and longtime Councilwoman Mary Roche also attended. Twenty years earlier, she had founded the Indian Wells Historic Preservation Foundation, along with Adele Ruxton. Their legacy and legend were enthusiastically applauded and, in December 2022, their sustainability paved the way for the newly elected Board and its vision.

Approximately 125 attendees enjoyed a sumptuous reception hosted by proud Casa Dorado residents on the Clubhouse’s pristine back patio. Former Indio High School classmates, President Henderson, and Mayor Griffith, offered bubbly toasts to the future surrounded by stunning views of San Jacinto and perfect landmark weather.

Previous Foundation historic landmarks include Cavanagh Adobe, 1922 (No. 1, 2004); Beck Adobe, 1932 (No. 2, 2016); Desi Arnaz Western Hills Hotel, 1957 (No. 3, 2016, now Indian Wells Resort Hotel); Crank-Garland House, 1961, William F. Cody, AIA (No. 4, 2019); and Erawan Garden Hotel 1962-1996, (No. 5, 2022, now Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa).

Stay tuned for IWPF’s first year wrap-up and New Year’s resolutions.

IWPF BOARD Linda Blank, President; Kevin Mead, Vice President; Dan Hamilton, Secretary; NJ Bradeen, Treasurer; Katherine Mead, Creative Director