It’s hard to imagine this restored midcentury gem was nearly demolished. Yet, it wasn’t too long ago that the Palm Springs property, built in 1949 by Herbert W. Burns, found itself in a decrepit state. After suffering years of neglect, the diamond-in-the-rough was recently rescued by the design duo Jackie Thomas and DeAnn McCoy of Thomboy Properties, who treated the residence to a top-down renovation.
Known as the Gillman Residence, the midcentury home was recently restored by Thomboy Properties and is now seeking a new buyer.
Nestled in the heart of Little Tuscany—a quintessential neighborhood known for its midcentury homes and celebrity residents—the five-bedroom residence evokes the coveted indoor-outdoor lifestyle most celebrated in Palm Springs. In fact, a meticulously landscaped lot and inviting pool greets you before you ever even step foot inside.
Burns was inspired by naturalistic elements in Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. Natural Arizona sandstone runs along exterior and interior walls while in-ground planters dot the entryway.
With a sprawling 4,700 square feet of space, the home features an open floor plan connecting several living areas. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows abound. A light color palette complements a Santa Fe block-brick fireplace in the living room, as well as teak cabinetry in the kitchen. In total, the dwelling offers three bedrooms along with three and a half baths. A two-bedroom guest-house is also located out back. Scroll ahead to see more of property, currently on the market for $3,200,000.
When Thomas and McCoy of Thomboy Properties came across the once-neglected home, they immediately recognized its potential and made an offer within 30 minutes of viewing. Paying careful attention to historical details, the design duo reimagined the space for modern living.
The neglected state of the home required nearly ever space to be updated for both structural and functional reasons. “This house can be considered a brand new home with Herbert Burns’ bones,” says Thomas. “Every single surface has been touched, from all new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, roof, poured terrazzo floors, the landscape—you name it, we touched it.”
The state-of-the-art kitchen features teak cabinetry, a large island, and all-new appliances.
Steps away from the kitchen, a dining area features sliding glass doors connecting to the patio.
The light-filled, corner wet bar complements the kitchen design with custom teak cabinets.
A long clerestory window sits above the bed in the master bedroom.
The master bath includes a floating double-vanity, teak cabinets, and an oversized shower.
A peek at another one of the home’s three bedrooms, this one with direct outdoor access.
Outside, Arizona sandstone runs along the facade. Deep overhangs and simple details define the midcentury character, all of which have been restored.
With views of the San Jacinto Mountains, the half-acre lot serves as an idyllic setting for entertaining and relaxing. In addition to the pool, the fenced-in area also includes an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and detached guest house.
A look inside the two-bedroom guest house, also treated to a complete makeover.
Dark blue cabinetry adds a dramatic flair in the kitchen of the guest house.
At night, recessed lights trace the structure along the overhang while the pool glows in the moonlight.
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