
Palm Springs, California 92264
This Historic Class One Landmark Sanctuary is listed at $1,500,000, representing a justified premium for architectural rarity over the $1,311,575 Fair Market Value. Following a meticulous 2024 high-end renovation, the property maintains an Excellent Condition Rating while offering panoramic desert views and two detached studio casitas. The estate’s landmark status provides potential Mills Act tax benefits and rare short-term rental flexibility within the Palm Springs Unified district. This iconic "Rock House" is a peerless acquisition for historic preservation enthusiasts or luxury lifestyle seekers.
Comparables within 1 miles sold in recently
| Address | Sold Price | Beds | Baths | Sq Ft | $/Sqft | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
★ 2550 S Araby Drive Subject | $1,375,000* List Price | 3 | 4 | 1,600 | $795 | - |
A 2865 Alondra Way Pending | $1,599,000 List Price | 3 | 3 | 2,226 | $718 | 1.0 mi |
* Subject property listed price vs sold prices of comps.
Property is new construction or fully renovated.
While originally built in 1929, this historic landmark underwent an extensive and high-end renovation completed in late 2024. The property features brand-new kitchen appliances, updated plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems, a 2022 roof, and modern bathroom finishes, all while meticulously preserving its unique architectural character.
The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 19602, living area = 1600.
As a designated Class One Historic Landmark, this iconic 'Rock House' offers immense architectural prestige and potential property tax benefits through the Mills Act.
The property underwent a 2024 transformation including new HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and a 2022 roof, providing modern reliability within a historic shell.
Living area discrepancy between mls listing and other public or private record. mls listing living area = 1600, other record living area = 1311. Bedroom count discrepancy between mls listing and other public or private record. mls listing bedroom count = 3, other record bedroom count = 2.
The 1,600 square footage is split between a one-bedroom main house and two detached casitas, which may be less desirable for buyers seeking a large, contiguous primary residence.
The Class One designation carries strict guidelines regarding exterior modifications, potentially limiting a buyer's ability to customize or expand the historic structure.
Perched high above Araby Cove, 2550 South Araby Road is a rare and storied treasure and one of Palm Springs iconic Rock Houses, originally built in 1929 by R. Lee Miller. This historic residence is a singular blend of architecture, history, and landscape, offering sweeping panoramic views across the desert floor and exceptional privacy. Access is provided via a private road with restricted entry. Designated a Class One Historic Landmark by the City of Palm Springs, the home showcases handcrafted artistry throughout. Stone walls rise organically from the mountainside, while original details remain beautifully intact, including hand carved doors and windows, custom shelving, exposed ceiling beams, ironwork door latches, handmade fireplace tools, and two original fireplaces, one of which includes a preserved stove pipe. A hidden room concealed behind a bookcase adds intrigue, and a deeply personal historical detail remains etched into the stone, as the original owner, Perle Martin Wheeler, carved her name into a nook in 1931. Respectfully honoring the home's architectural legacy, the current owners acquired the property in late 2024 and completed a thoughtful transformation, bringing the residence into the modern era while preserving its soul. Extensive upgrades include updated plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems, new appliances, an EV charger, and infrastructure improvements throughout the property. The roof was fully replaced in August 2022, providing long term durability. The main residence features one bedroom and two bathrooms, complemented by two detached studio casitas, each with its own en suite bathroom. These spaces offer exceptional flexibility and are ideal for guests, multigenerational living, creative use, or private retreats. Meandering pathways, updated irrigation, and curated desert landscaping create a serene environment where native wildlife and natural beauty take center stage. A morning walk along the northern path reveals the desert awakening from the rock garden below. The extensive desert landscaping was thoughtfully designed by renowned Palm Springs landscape consultant Paul Ortega, an expert in desert horticulture and water management, and President Emeritus and Co Founder of the Desert Horticultural Society of the Coachella Valley. This historic property allows short term rentals, a rare benefit for a Class One designation. In addition, Class One homes in Palm Springs may qualify for Mills Act contracts, which can offer potential property tax benefits. Buyer to verify. More than a home, 2550 South Araby Road is a living work of art where architectural significance, timeless craftsmanship, and some of the most breathtaking views in Palm Springs converge into a truly irreplaceable desert retreat.
No exterior & parking available.
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home | Neighborhood Ranking (50 Listings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beds | 3.0 | 3.0 | 50% |
| Baths | 4.0 | 3.0 | 59% |
| Square foot | 1,600 | 2,266 | 20% |
| Lot Size | 19,602 | 10,019 | 94% |
| Price | $1.38M | $1.35M | 51% |
| Price per sq ft | $859 | $609 | 88% |
| Built year | 1929 | 1976 | 1% |
| HOA | $0 | $0 | 50% |
| Days on market | 79 | 159 | 18% |
Mar 13, 2026
$1,375,000
$1,500,000
-8% Price Drop
Initial Listing
Feb 3, 2026
$1,500,000
Initial Listing
Sep 16, 2024
$625,000
Public Record