Finance Tips and Notes

There is an large, increasing interest in Spanish revival architecture throughout California. Although it began to grow in popularity at the beginning of the 20th century, the mission revival style and colonial revival styles are still emulated by people when building their homes and public establishments in the present day. These are the same historic real estate for sale you may see today.

Why the Spanish style still being used today? Because the Spanish colonial style represents the early development of the United States on the west coast. This architectural time in US history continues to rouse people’s minds. Although the artistic elements are symbols of times past, they are still commissioned by architects who fill the people’s desire to create the home of their dreams in this Spanish style.

After the opening of the Panama Canal, the Spanish Colonial Revival style was created in the United States in the 20th century. Another great influence on the popularity of this architectural style is the novel Ramona. The early Spanish colonies of North and South America brought from their homeland their particular style of architecture. This style was modernized to accommodate the new century in the US.

Between 1915 and 1931, this style become all the rage. Movie stars in Hollywood would request to get their Hollywood hills homes constructed to replicate this style. This style was mainly instituted in single-level detached homes. Even my grandmother has one of these homes in California in the bold color of pink!

Although, the Spanish Colonial Revival style is quite similar to the Spanish Mission Revival style each has their own key differences. They are influenced by the arts and crafts movement which was the foundation of these architectural styles. They are also similar to the pueblo practices of the west and southwest. It is an extremely evident and recognizable style. It has distinguished features such as the use of smooth plaster, chimney finishes, stucco walls, clay tile roofs, terra cotta and concrete ornaments. Other components include porches and balconies, Roman arcades and fountains, and canvas awnings.

The most important Spanish Revival architect in California was George Washington Smith who practiced during 1920’s and 1930’s. Perhaps his most famous house is the Steedman House in Montecito, CA, now a museum called the Casa del Herrero.

There are other architects who transferred the Spanish style across the world. For example, there is the lovely Spanish Revival building in St. Louis by the architect T.P. Barnett. He was the son of George I. Barnett who was another famous architect in St. Louis.

The T.P. Barnett building also contains Art Deco influences which adds an interesting feature to it. It one of the most amazing buildings in the Grand Center region of St. Louis. The next time you’re in St. Louis, you need to make this Spanish Revival building on Washington Avenue a must-see stop on your visit.

Tags: financial articles