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This Frutopia commercial of a house could be yours for $1.9 million. Built in 1961 and designed by Charles Dubois, this 4-bed, 4-bath Palm Springs pad seems to exist within some kind of anachronistic dimension where the '60s have been reinterpreted by the '90s. It's got bathrooms tiled liked subway stations, psychedelic wallpaper and a neon sign that reads: "Happiness is expensive." It's got mod furniture, lawn ornaments that look like 3-D printed sex toys, and a muscular Atlas statue that acts as a sentinel over the pool. According to the listing, locals call this place "Leisureland," and it's within walking distance Palm Springs' Uptown Design District.
Fully walled and gated to ensure the ultimate in privacy, this stunning and thoughtfully executed renovation offers style, drama and panache. Mesmerizing mountain views are enhanced by lushly landscaped grounds and numerous outdoor entertaining patios.
Yes. Drama and panache, indeed. The home began as one of the tracts produced by the Alexander Construction Company, but it was self-described diet guru to the stars Jamie Kabler that made it look like this. Kabler, the man behind the Hollywood Diet, filled the house with pop art and patterns—perfect for your Austin Powers cosplay party. He's also known locally for throwing soirées—including pajama parties and Valley of the Dolls-themed gatherings—for as many as 500 guests at a time.
Older photo galleries depict the house as full of off-kilter decor: the stark white, provocatively posed mannequins of the Korova Milk Bar in Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange around the pool, as well as a piece that consists of three oversized cigarettes snuffed out in a giant can. One room contained a collection of vintage Barbies, while another was home to a circular table on salmon shag that acted as an homage to actress Raquel Welch. The question is, will the new owner embrace the neon, or cover it all up with boring beige?
