401 W Merito Place, Palm Springs, CA 92262 (MLS# 219071270)

401 Merito is the only known Tudor residence remaining in Palm Springs. It dates from a time when celebrities from Los Angeles were building revival style houses and was designated a Class 1 Historic structure in 2017. A renovation was undertaken by the current owners to restore the historic portions of the home and remove additions from the 1980s that muddled the spirit of the original house. Working with San Francisco architect Christi Azevedo, the owners undertook a two-year restoration and construction project, balancing the 30-foot peak of the original Tudor with a new contemporary white stucco wing, floating carport and 50-foot pool. From the road, the property exudes its original 1920s cottage charm. The landscaping is Mediterranean with soft plantings of olives, palms and native Palo Verde trees, maintaining the lushness of the original yards while using low-water desert plants. The renovated portion of the home is tucked behind the three-story historic house, preserving the character of the original while creating privacy for the new primary living spaces. The design is fully compliant with the Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Structures which require a clear but harmonious distinction between old and new architecture and was approved by the Palm Springs Historic Preservation Board on first attempt.