Steve McQueen Residence
Palm Springs, California

Built: 1964
Restoration: 2017

Architect: Hugh M. Kaptur
Restoration: Mark Haddawy

Photography: Matt Walla

The Steve McQueen Residence is a striking cantilevered steel and glass home nestled in Palm Springs' exclusive Southridge hillside community, originally designed by young architect Hugh Kaptur. Music executive Edwin H. "Buddy" Morris was its first owner, expanding the property before selling it to Steve McQueen in 1969. McQueen made it a personal retreat — bringing his motorcycles, spending time with family and friends, and embracing the surrounding Mojave desert landscape — until he sold it in 1976.

By 2017 the home had fallen into serious disrepair, but that same year collector and preservationist Mark Haddawy undertook a meticulous restoration. The project revived signature mid-century details including Roman brick, rough stucco, pecky cypress paneling, terrazzo floors, hand-carved double-height doors, and vintage lighting. On July 29, 2019, the Palm Springs City Council unanimously designated the residence a Class 1 Historic Site, cementing its place as both an architectural gem and a piece of pop culture history.

Architectural photographer Matt Walla was commissioned to document the completed restoration, producing a rich portfolio of images that capture far more than the home's striking aesthetic. His photographs highlight the interplay of the architecture with its dramatic hillside surroundings, while also drawing attention to the meticulous craftsmanship and fine detailing that breathed new life into this iconic residence.

Modern midcentury home with a swimming pool, palm trees, landscaped yard, and covered patio
Modern desert home with a large swimming pool, lounge chairs, palm trees, and mountain views
Modern midcentury home with swimming pool, palm trees, lawn, and mountain views
Resort pool with lounge chairs and palm trees overlooking desert mountains at sunset
Midcentury modern dining room with orange wire chairs, wood table, sculptural chandelier, spiral staircase, and floor-to-ceiling windows
Midcentury modern living room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking mountains, a valley, and palm trees
Modern glass-walled desert home with mountain and valley views
Retro basement lounge with a well-stocked built-in liquor bar, wood-paneled walls, patterned armchairs, and ottomans
Mid-century modern living room with geometric patterned wallpaper, vintage stereo console, red lounge chair, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Midcentury modern kitchen with dark wood cabinets, white tile countertops, patterned floor tiles, central island, and dining table
Palm trees and a modern covered patio overlooking desert mountains at sunset
Modern midcentury house with a lit swimming pool, covered patio, and palm trees at dusk