Tiki Takes the Day

Tiki used to be called tacky, back when budget motels dotted the highways with faux palm trees and pseudo Polynesian sculptures. Still, a few mainstream architects like Donald Wexler saw potential in the 1950s fad and incorporated abstract primitive shapes into mid-century modernist buildings.

Now, tiki is getting new respect. This week the City Council in Palm Springs, California voted 4-1 to designate the tiki-themed Royal Hawaiian Estates condominium complex a historic district.

Some people are grumbling and asking why? Others are saying, it's about time! What do you think? Share your views.

More:

• What Is Tiki Architecture?
• Tiki-Themed Condo Complex Gets Historic Designation, in the Desert Sun

_{Above: Royal Hawaiian Estates, Palm Springs, California. Photo © Daniel Chavkin, courtesy Royal Hawaiian Estates}