La Jolla Modernism & Architecture Week
Save the date for Saturday, October 3, 2026
Experience La Jolla’s Architectural Gems
Celebrate the beauty and legacy of modernist architecture with exclusive events! Whether you attend one or all, your participation directly supports the La Jolla Historical Society’s free exhibitions, educational programs, and preservation initiatives.
Keep the inspiration going with Architecture Week—a weeklong series of engaging talks and special programs, running October 6–11, that spotlight La Jolla’s iconic landmark buildings and architectural legacy. Don’t miss this extended celebration of design, history, and innovation.
**Members receive 20% off their ticket purchase, renew or join today!**
Thank you to our generous 2026 sponsors: Design Within Reach, Atomic Ranch, Agents of Architecture, Modern San Diego, Luce Studio, Hobbs Modern, David Zippel and Michael Johnston, Joan and Gary Gand, Jeffrey D. Shorn + Charles S. Kaminski Trust, Boffi San Diego, Brett Farrow Architect, Jeff and Maribel Robin, and Nonya and Jonathan Grenader.
All proceeds from La Jolla Modernism and Architecture Week benefit the exhibition and public programs of La Jolla Historical Society.
2026 Program Includes:
Modernism Cocktail Party
Friday, October 2, 2026 | 5:00–7:00 PM
Mid-century inspired cocktail attire encouraged
Start the weekend at an unforgettable evening soiree. Enjoy fine wine, delicious savory bites, and the chance to explore an architecturally significant private residence in a festive and intimate setting. Space is limited and tickets sell fast—secure yours early!
Tickets: $100
La Jolla Modernism Home Tour
Saturday, October 3, 2026 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Architecture fans, design lovers, and history enthusiasts—this is your day! The La Jolla Modernism Tour offers rare access to a curated selection of privately owned Mid-Century Modern homes. Discover the beauty, innovation, and stories behind these architectural gems.
La Jolla is home to iconic modernist structures designed by pioneering figures like Irving Gill, Rudolph Schindler, Louis Kahn, and Richard Neutra. Later, it flourished as a creative hub for renowned Mid-Century Modern architects including Homer Delawie, Lloyd Ruocco, Kendrick Bangs Kellogg, Henry Hester, William Kesling, Sim Bruce Richards, Russell Forester, and Frederick Liebhardt. Today, their legacy is celebrated through homes thoughtfully preserved by a new generation of owners. Many of these homes have now been designated as San Diego Landmarks, ensuring their protection for generations to come.
Tour proceeds directly support the La Jolla Historical Society’s mission to protect and promote our architectural heritage.
Tickets: With limited capacity, tickets for this event are expected to sell out quickly. Reserve your spot TODAY to be part of this incredible experience.
WHEN PURCHASING TICKETS for TOUR: Choose between the Self-Driving or Platinum Bus Tour.
Self-Driving Home Tour Tickets
Tickets: $125
Platinum Bus Home Tour Tickets
Platinum Bus Tour Ticket Holders receive the following benefits not included in the Self-Driving option: Hired bus transportation to each site with expert docents and catered lunch at a historic location.
Tickets: $225
From Concrete to Redwood: UC San Diego's Modernist Masterpieces
Sunday, October 4, 2026 | 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Explore two remarkable expressions of California Modernism on the UC San Diego campus. Begin with a guided tour of William L. Pereira's iconic Geisel Library, featuring an introductory talk by Lynda Claassen, Director, Special Collections & Archives, and the exhibition Shaping a Library. Enjoy an optional self-guided walk through the university's renowned Stuart Collection artworks, with time for lunch on your own. The day concludes with a rare tour of Lloyd Ruocco's 1963 Munk Laboratory at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, led by UC San Diego Director of Physical Planning Todd Pitman, ASLA. Free on-campus parking is included.
Tickets: $45
Modernism 101: From Bauhaus to Our House
Thursday, October 8, 2026 | 5:00–6:00 PM | La Jolla Woman's Club
Join Joan Gand, chair of the La Jolla Modernism Tour Committee, for an informative and entertaining introduction to the design principles that transformed architecture and visual culture in postwar America. From the Bauhaus to California Modernism, this lively talk explores the ideas, influences, and personalities behind the Modernist movement—and how they continue to shape the way we live today.
Specially adapted for La Jolla Modernism from Joan’s three-time sold-out presentation at Palm Springs Modernism Week, this is the perfect primer for anyone curious about Modernism, Mid-Century design, and the architectural treasures of La Jolla.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Co-presented by the Landmarks Group and La Jolla Modernism committees
Tickets: $25
Discover the Story of Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 9:30 AM Reception | 10:00 AM Program
Discover the remarkable legacy of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography during Architecture & Landmarks Week. Historian Dr. Molly McClain, architectural historian Dr. Rev. Mark Hargreaves, Scripps leader Jack Gilbert, and historian Carol Olten will share the institution's history, architecture, pioneering founders, and world-leading scientific achievements, followed by self-guided tours of its historic campus and landmark buildings. Experience the story of Scripps where it began, surrounded by iconic architecture and breathtaking ocean views.
Tickets: $45
Explore Iconic Midcentury Modern Architecture
La Jolla was fortunate to gain early midcentury modern buildings by pioneering modernist architects Irving Gill, Rudolph Schindler, Louis Kahn and Richard Neutra. This small village has hosted the offices of top MCM architects Henry Hester, Sim Bruce Richards, Russell Forester, Frederick Liebhardt, and more, who designed spectacular midcentury modern homes and commercial buildings. These homes have now been rediscovered, sought out, and restored by new owners who appreciate this once-forgotten style. Many have now been designated as San Diego landmarks, protected for future generations to enjoy.
This rare tour opportunity will showcase iconic examples of midcentury modern architecture and leave a legacy of financial support for the La Jolla Historical Society. Capacity is limited. This event is expected to sell out. Join our mailing list to receive notification when tickets are available for purchase. Reserve your tickets early. Advance tickets are required.
Sponsorships
Interested in sponsoring this event or purchasing an advertisement for our program? See our sponsorship and ad packages here. Please contact Executive Director, Lauren Lockhart for any questions.
