SANTA BARBARA IS KNOWN AND LOVED FOR ITS MEDITERRANEAN ROOTS.
Famed architect, George Washinton Smith, is hugely responsible for the Spanish inspired architecture that defines Santa Barbara.
Smith received his Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture from Harvard University. He dabbled in painting, traveled with his wife, and practiced architectural design in Paris before finding career success in Santa Barbara. His success started with the design of his own house, El Hogar, which was inspired by Andalusian farmhouses in Spain. Because Smith's interpretation of Spanish architecture held great appeal to so many people, he was commissioned to design homes and public landmarks all over Santa Barbara.
Smith designed the Montecito Country Club Building, Santa Barbara Chapel and Crematorium, Meridian Studios, La Cumbre Golf and Country Club Building, and The Lobero Theatre.
a reason to celebrate.
George Washington Smith's Lobero Theatre is one of the reasons that Santa Barbara hosts the Old Spanish Days Fiesta. This week-long Fiesta was started in 1924 and is a tradition marked by festive music and dance.
Smith's SPanish revival has come to define Montecito's architectural aesthetic.
710 Picacho Lane features crisp white walls, terra-cotta roof tiles, and arched doorways. These characteristics are typical of the Mediterranean style.
860 Picacho Lane is an expertly crafted, ocean view, Mediterranean estate. Like 710 Picacho Lane, it boasts terra-cotta roof tiles and arches. It also has an arcade to shelter the patio.
4160 La Ladera Road takes a minimalist approach to the Southern Mediterranean style. Sleek Mexican travertine and white stucco walls perfectly balance rustic rubble stones and the reclaimed Nicaraguan tiles that crown the roof.
3219 Cliff Drive features Mediterranean elements such as hand-painted tiles, white stucco walls, and a gorgeous patio.
1908 Boundary Drive blends Spanish Colonial Revival with a light, airy nature. The bright white walls, wood finishes, and outdoor terrace make for a sophisticated, Mediterranean atmosphere.