The Desert Classic is a sunbaked Tour spectacle contested every January in La Quinta, Calif. It’s revised its name more than a handful of times over the years (it’s now The American Express), but, to many, it will always affectionately be known as the Bob Hope, as it was called for more than 40 years. It’s an homage to the Hollywood star who helped thrust the tournament into the national consciousness when, in 1965, he lent the event his name and significant influence.
Hope loved golf and the California desert—so much so that he spent years building what is now known as the Bob Hope House: a 24,000-square-foot, 10-bedroom, 13-bath, mushroom-shaped edifice nestled into the rugged hillside of the Santa Rosa Mountains. If you’re driving through Palm Springs on Highway 111—the two-lane desert thoroughfare that spans all the way to Indio—you simply can’t miss it.
The wonderfully unique home was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright acolyte John Lautner, who had gained a reputation for his “Googie,” or futuristic, style. Bob and Dolores Hope hired Lautner in part because they admired one of his most widely known works, the Elrod House, which is located on the same street as the Hope House.
Lautner was reportedly less than thrilled with the Hopes’ interior design decisions and distanced himself from the project before it was finished. But in 2016, venture capitalist Ron Burkle purchased the property for $13 million and recently completed a massive restoration in an effort to showcase Lautner’s unrealized original vision.
Now, the house stands as a permanent tribute to both Lautner’s architectural genius and the lasting legacy of its former owner.
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As a four-year member of Columbia’s inaugural class of female varsity golfers, Jessica can out-birdie everyone on the masthead. She can out-hustle them in the office, too, where she’s primarily responsible for producing both print and online features, and overseeing major special projects, such as GOLF’s inaugural Style Issue, which debuted in February 2018. Her original interview series, “A Round With,” debuted in November of 2015, and appeared in both in the magazine and in video form on GOLF.com.
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As an avid golf enthusiast with an extensive knowledge of the sport's history and associated lifestyle, I bring a wealth of information to shed light on the concepts mentioned in the provided article by Jessica Marksbury. My passion for golf extends beyond the fairways, encompassing the rich cultural and architectural aspects embedded in the golfing world.
In the article, Jessica Marksbury discusses the Desert Classic, now known as The American Express, an annual golf tournament held in La Quinta, Calif. The tournament has a fascinating history, having undergone name changes over the years. Notably, it was affectionately known as the Bob Hope for more than 40 years, paying homage to the Hollywood star who played a pivotal role in its national recognition.
Bob Hope's connection to golf and the California desert is emphasized by his contribution to the tournament's legacy in 1965. He not only lent his name but also exerted significant influence, propelling the event into the national consciousness. This is a testament to the intersection of celebrity, sports, and regional identity in the world of golf.
The article delves into the personal connection between Bob Hope and the California desert, revealing his love for the region. Hope's affinity for the area led him to commission the construction of the Bob Hope House, an iconic 24,000-square-foot residence with distinctive features. This mushroom-shaped edifice, nestled into the Santa Rosa Mountains, serves as a lasting symbol of the entertainer's passion for golf and the desert lifestyle.
Designed by John Lautner, a notable architect associated with Frank Lloyd Wright's futuristic "Googie" style, the Bob Hope House stands as a masterpiece. Lautner, despite some reported disagreements about interior design decisions, created a unique architectural gem. The house became a permanent tribute to Lautner's genius after a recent extensive restoration by venture capitalist Ron Burkle, who aimed to showcase the architect's original vision.
The interconnectedness of golf, architecture, and celebrity culture is evident in this narrative. It highlights the enduring legacy of both Bob Hope and John Lautner, showcasing the profound impact they had on the Desert Classic and the architectural landscape of the California desert. The article captures the essence of a unique lifestyle, where golf transcends the sport itself and becomes intertwined with the cultural and architectural fabric of a region.
