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Architect William F. Cody�s Mid-Century Modern Hotel Re-Built from the Ground Up;
Built in 1952 The Horizon Hotel, in Palm Springs Reopens Following
Two-year Extensive Renovation
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PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (February, 2008) � The Horizon Hotel, one of the few true Mid-Century modern hotels in Palm Springs, is steaming up the city with world class luxury since re-opening in May 2006.  Scharf Properties, LTD acquired the hotel in February 2004 and completed a two-year extensive renovation during which The Horizon Hotel was nearly re-built from the ground up, restoring the original architecture and updating its amenities.  

The hotel is one of famed architect William F. Cody�s Mid-Century modern designs built in 1952.  Cody�s unique architectural design is highlighted throughout the hotel, most notably in its low slung ceilings and the absence of any 90 degree angles throughout the entire property.  Rather, the 22 bungalow-styled rooms feature 102 and 78 degree angles. The Horizon Hotel is one of many projects that spotlight Cody�s tremendous influence on the rich architectural history in Palm Springs.

Cody, who became one of Southern California�s most prominent Mid-Century modern architects, originally built the hotel for Hollywood mogul Jack Wrather and his actress wife Bonita Granville, best known for her portrayal as �Nancy Drew� in the Nancy Drew movie series from 1938-39.  Wrather, an oil millionaire from Texas, became part of the Hollywood scene by producing �Lassie� and �The Lone Ranger,� founding KCET-TV and building the Disneyland Hotel, which Walt Disney personally convinced Wrather to build.  The couple�s Palm Springs getaway became their private oasis for themselves and their Hollywood friends including Marilyn Monroe, Betty Grable and Rosalind Russell.  Though the hotel always had a devoted following, the getaway became neglected with new ownership.  
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The Horizon Hotel - Guest Room
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In February 2004, Dave Scharf, real estate developer from Portland, Oregon, purchased The Horizon Hotel to revive its old Hollywood charm and elegance, and to re-establish it as the premiere Palm Springs destination that it once was in the 1950s.  To ensure the project kept in line with Cody�s unique vision, Scharf acquired the original blueprints of the property and obtained numerous vintage photographs by famed architectural photographer Julius Shulman, allowing him to preserve much of the hotel�s original character.  The developer also commissioned architect and former Cody associate Frank Urrutia to oversee the renovation.  Two years later, the 22-room hotel that sits on spacious 2.5 acre manicured grounds with spectacular views of the San Jacinto Mountains, is a sophisticated escape for desert lovers.

�I could see immediately that, beneath the neglected layers of sharply angled glass corners and low roofing, this was a very special property,� said Scharf.  �The re-opening of this historical hotel enables visitors to once again enjoy the true Palm Springs experience.�
The hotel�s 22 beautifully appointed rooms (including a three-bedroom residence with private pool) are the perfect setting for a secluded getaway.  The hotel has been host to numerous events, weddings and retreats, and can accommodate gatherings for up to 100 people.  Besides a complete renovation, The Horizon Hotel is proud to feature the following amenities:

  • Chemical-free therapy pools           
  • Jacuzzi spa
  • Poolside bar
  • Alfresco showers
  • Private patios
  • Meeting space
  • LCD plasma screen TVs
  • Italian linens and robes
  • DVD and CD players
  • DSL internet access and wireless
  • Private or group yoga classes
  • Breakfast served poolside, in-room or on private patio
  • Concierge and food service


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The Horizon Hotel in the 1970's

1050 East Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, California 92264
Phone: 760.323.1858
Toll Free: 800.377.7855
Email: [email protected]
Web Address: www.thehorizonhotel.com

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About Scharf Properties, LTD

Scharf Properties, LTD, the parent company of Scharf Hospitality, LLC, purchased the hotel in February 2004 under the name L�Horizon.  The Horizon Hotel is owned and operated by Scharf Hospitality, LLC.  Dave Scharf, is the principle, Scharf Properties, LTD with Joe Scharf, manager, Scharf Properties, LTD. Paul Scharf, is the manager, Scharf Hospitality, LLC.  
 

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Contact:

www.TheHorizonHotel.com
Danielle Dusky / Erin Scharf
SWPR Group
(818) 760-7131
[email protected]

 

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Also See: Following a $15 Million Renovation, The Colony Palms Hotel, One of Palm Springs� Most Historic Properties Set to Reopen / April 2007
Tribal Owner of the Spa Resort Casino Hotel in Palm Springs Plans to Tear Down the Familiar Hotel and Replace with One Twice as Large / December 2006
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