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HAROLD MATZNER ESTATE THE

THE MOUNTAIN

Set against the dramatic foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains, the Matzner compound occupies one of Palm Springs’ most extraordinary settings. Conceived as a series of interconnected structures rather than a singular residence, the estate unfolds across the landscape with remarkable restraint, embracing the desert rather than imposing upon it.

For nearly four decades, the property served as the private sanctuary of Harold Matzner. Over time, the grounds matured into a world unto themselves, defined by quiet courtyards, meandering paths, and a profound relationship with the mountains that rise directly behind them.

From above, the scale of the estate becomes apparent. Yet despite its size, the architecture remains remarkably grounded, allowing the changing light, the desert air, and the surrounding landscape to become equal participants in the experience.

What emerges is not simply a residence, but a place shaped by time, stewardship, and an enduring sense of belonging.

LIGHT

At the heart of the compound lies the principal residence at 555 North Patencio, a home defined not by ornament, but by atmosphere. Here, architecture and landscape exist in constant dialogue, with walls of glass, expansive galleries, and carefully framed views dissolving the boundaries between inside and out.

Throughout the day, shifting sunlight animates stone floors, textured walls, and collections gathered over decades. Spaces unfold gradually, revealing moments of intimacy and grandeur with equal ease.

Originally envisioned by architect Laszlo Sandor and later enriched through the interiors of Steve Chase, the residence has remained remarkably faithful to the principles that first shaped it, preserving a sense of warmth, calm, and understated elegance.

Above all, the home is an expression of light itself. Its movement, its softness, and its remarkable ability to transform the familiar into something quietly unforgettable.

THE RETREAT

Integrated into the greater composition of the estate, the guest residence offers a more intimate expression of the same architectural language. Hidden among gardens and stone pathways, it exists as a place of quiet refuge.

Its scale is deliberately restrained, fostering a sense of privacy while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Filtered light, warm materials, and secluded outdoor spaces create an atmosphere that feels both peaceful and deeply welcoming.

Though smaller in scale, the residence possesses a character entirely its own. It serves not simply as an extension of the main house, but as a retreat within the retreat.

Together, these spaces reinforce the estate’s enduring emphasis on comfort, hospitality, and the unhurried rhythms of desert living.

MEMORY

Long before the estate became synonymous with Harold Matzner, it belonged to another chapter in Palm Springs history. In 1983, the residence appeared in the pages of Architectural Digest under the stewardship of Robert Floyd and the interiors of Jack E. Lowrance.

Inspired by the Japanese principle of shibui, the home embraced an aesthetic rooted in balance, restraint, and quiet beauty. Rather than relying on excess, it found its strength in texture, proportion, and the changing qualities of light.

Though furnishings and collections evolved over the decades, the underlying spirit of the residence remained remarkably intact. Many of the ideas first documented in these pages continue to resonate throughout the estate today.

These photographs offer a glimpse into an earlier life of the house. They speak not only to the passage of time, but to the enduring power of thoughtful design.

‘‘ARCHITECTURE SHOULD RESPOND TO THE LAND, NOT OVERPOWER IT.’’

— LASZLO SANDOR, AIA

‘‘NOTHING PLEASES ME MORE THAN OVERSEEING SOMETHING AS IT IS DEVELOPED, AND SHARING THAT WONDERFUL FORCE OF CREATIVITY, HAVING THE IMPACT OF IMPROVING PEOPLE’S LIVES.’’

— STEVE CHASE

2026 COMPLETE ESTATE OFFERED

FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER.

RESONANCE

Beyond the gardens, a second residence reveals another dimension of the estate. Though connected by the same landscape and guided by the same spirit, 575 North Patencio possesses a character distinctly its own.

More sculptural in its expression and grander in scale, the residence unfolds through dramatic volumes, sweeping curves, and moments of unexpected intimacy. Spaces reveal themselves gradually, creating a sense of rhythm and discovery throughout.

Pools, terraces, and carefully framed views continue the conversation established by the original home while introducing a new sense of movement and scale.

Together, the two residences form a singular composition. Distinct in character, yet harmonious in spirit, each enhances the experience of the other.

STILLNESS

As daylight fades, the estate enters its quietest hours. Mountains recede into silhouette, reflections deepen, and the glow from within begins to emerge against the desert sky.

Long celebrated for its relationship with light, the compound reveals an entirely different character in the evening. Interiors become lanterns, water mirrors the changing sky, and familiar spaces assume an almost cinematic quality.

It is perhaps in these moments of stillness that the philosophy underlying the estate becomes most apparent. A balance between openness and intimacy, grandeur and calm, architecture and atmosphere.

In these fleeting moments, the extraordinary feels effortless.

IN RESIDENCE

For decades, Harold Matzner was among Palm Springs’ most recognizable and beloved figures. A philanthropist, patron of the arts, and tireless advocate for the city he loved, his influence extended far beyond any one address.

Throughout his years in the desert, he cultivated places where people gathered. Homes where conversations stretched late into the evening. Gardens that welcomed friends and family. Spaces that reflected both generosity and joy.

His legacy is woven into the cultural fabric of Palm Springs itself, from the Film Festival and McCallum Theatre to the Art Museum and countless charitable organizations whose lives were touched by his vision and support.

At 555 and 575 North Patencio, that spirit endures. Not simply in the architecture, but in the sense of warmth, hospitality, and quiet wonder that continues to define the estate today.

“If you are lucky enough to be able to give back in a big way, it’s a wonderful feeling. But I believe anyone can give back, even if all you can give is time.”

— Harold Matzner

THE ESTATE

555 NORTH PATENCIO ROAD

PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA

6 BEDROOMS | 8 BATHROOMS | 7,560 TTL SQ FT

575 NORTH PATENCIO ROAD

PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA

5 BEDROOMS | 7 BATHROOMS | 6,850 TTL SQ FT

HAROLD MATZNER ESTATE THE

555

+ 575 NORTH PATENCIO ROAD

Palm Springs, California

Positioned atop a private promontory in the coveted Old Las Palmas neighborhood, The Harold Matzner Estate represents one of the most significant residential offerings in Palm Springs history. Encompassing nearly 1.5 acres across two fully realized residences and a private guest house, the compound occupies a setting unlike any other in the desert, with the San Jacinto Mountains rising directly behind and panoramic views extending across the Coachella Valley below.

PROPERTY OVERVIEW

• Approximately 15,975 square feet across three structures

• Approximately 1.48 acres of assembled grounds

• 12 Bedrooms

• 16 Bathrooms

• Two independent residential estates

• Separate guest residence

• Multiple pools and spas

• Gated motor court and extensive parking

• Mountain, city light, and valley views

THE LEGACY

For nearly forty years, the estate served as the private residence of Harold Matzner, one of Palm Springs’ most influential philanthropists and civic leaders. Through decades of stewardship, the property evolved into an extraordinary compound that reflects both the architectural ambition of its origins and the enduring spirit of the desert itself.

Available for the first time in nearly four decades.

555 NORTH PATENCIO

Originally designed in 1982 by architect Laszlo Sandor with interiors by renowned designer Steve Chase, the principal residence is defined by its relationship to light, landscape, and scale. Signature features include the iconic sunken conversation lounge, expansive entertaining spaces, raked plaster walls, walls of retractable glass, curated art installations, and a dramatic rockintegrated pool environment that appears carved directly from the mountainside.

575

NORTH PATENCIO

A distinct yet complementary residence offering soaring volumes, grand entertaining spaces, a sweeping curved staircase, rain chandelier, dramatic great room, resortcaliber primary suite, and multiple terraces overlooking the valley below. The residence functions as a fully independent estate while remaining seamlessly integrated into the larger compound.