Sunnylands Center & Gardens

With an expected opening of November 2011, The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information to both the press and the general public. In an effort to meet that goal. In addition, information is provided on the work being conducted at the Sunnylands estate and its planned use. A special section titled Frequently Asked Questions addresses a multitude of subjects including history of the Annenbergs. Sunnylands was the 200-acre estate of Ambassador Walter and Leonore Annenberg. Designed by architect A. Quincy Jones with interiors by William Haines and Ted Graber, the 25,000 square-foot mid-century modern house is located in the middle of landscaped grounds including a private golf course. The Annenbergs lived in this desert oasis for approximately five months each year following its completion in 1966. In subsequent years, they entertained seven United States Presidents, British Royalty, international political figures, and cultural and entertainment icons at Sunnylands. In November 2011, Sunnylands will be a 215-acre public attraction incorporating a visitor center, desert garden, historic house and golf course, solar farm, and other 21st-century environmental upgrades on the extensive grounds. The new Sunnylands will be opened to the public as a historic house museum as well as a site for retreats and summits. The Annenberg Foundation Trust operates Sunnylands, both the Center and the estate. The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands was established in 2001 by the Annenberg Foundation to advance public understanding of and appreciation for democracy and to address serious issues facing the country and the world.