Spanish Colonial Revival Style Architecture

Throughout California there is an ever increasing interest in Spanish revival architecture. Although it began to grow in popularity at the beginning of the 20th century, the mission revival style and colonial revival styles are still imitated by people when constructing their homes and public establishments in the modern day. Some of these buildings are the same historic real estate for sale you may see today.

Why are people still using this Spanish style? Because the Spanish colonial style symbolizes the early beginnings of the United States on the west coast. This particular time in US history continues to intrigue people’s imaginations. Although the artistic elements are emblems of times long gone, people still commission architects to create the home of their dreams in this Spanish style.

The Spanish Colonial Revival style was created in the United States in the 20th century, and it was sparked after the opening of the Panama Canal. The novel Ramona also had a great influence on the popularity of this architectural style. The early Spanish colonies of North and South America had their particular style of architecture brought from the homeland, and this style was then updated to accommodate the new century in the US.

Between 1915 and 1931 this style was all the rage, and movie stars in Hollywood clamored to get their Hollywood hills homes built in this style. Mostly the single-level detached home saw this style. On a personal note, my own grandmother has one of these homes in California, and it’s pink!

The Spanish Colonial Revival style is very similar to the Spanish Mission Revival style, but with a few key differences. It’s also similar to the pueblo styles of the west and southwest, and influenced as well by the arts and crafts movement that was the foundation of these architectural styles. The iconic use of smooth plaster, stucco walls, and chimney finishes, clay tile roofs, terra cotta and concrete ornaments is still a highly noticeable, recognizable style. Other elements include porches and balconies, and Roman arcades and fountains. You’ll also see 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.

But there are other architects who took this Spanish style across the globe. Take for example a lovely Spanish Revival building in St. Louis, by the architect T.P. Barnett, son of George I. Barnett; 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.

Art Deco and Spanish Mission Style Architecture is part of some of the classic buildings of Missouri. To download the original plans of the Thomas P Barnett Historic Building or go here to find out more about St Louis Commercial Real Estate For Sale