Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture

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Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture

by Sweiskloss
October 3, 2024
From terra-cotta clay tile roofs and white stucco walls, to soft arches and carved wooden doors, the Spanish Colonial Revival style is prevalent throughout southern California. In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 – Oct 15), we thought we’d showcase this early twentieth century style that, “represents an adaption of Spanish missions and Mediterranean-style homes, … while also [takes] inspiration from Mexican, Pueblo and Moorish design styles” (masterclass.com).

Dating back to the Spanish Conquistadores and developing through the colonial times and beyond, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture has been modified over time and geography. Yet, it has retained several distinct elements from the original style.

Photo Courtesy of Houzz

Flat Red Clay Tile Roofs
Low pitched roofs with red clay “give the homes a warm, earthy, rustic look” (houzz). In some regions the roofs are completely flat, in others slightly pitched. The terra-cotta tiles offer the same look as they did two hundred years ago when they were handmade. Tower-like chimneys or turrets, adorned with little arched windows or decorative moldings, sometimes embellish the roof line.

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White Stucco Walls
Ideal for warm weather climates, the Spanish Colonial Revival style was designed to keep interiors cool -- thick white walls act as insulation to keep the day’s heat out of the home. Traditionally, affordable building materials such as adobe bricks were used; now white stucco provides the iconic look, while also reflecting the heat (bhg.com).
Wooden Features
Wooden features are prevalent inside and outside the home. Carved rounded wooden doors make a striking entrance. In contrast to the white walls, exposed dark wood beams make an elegant statement in any room. Originally the beams were structural while today they are often a decorative element that adds character and distinction.
Arches and Curves
Arches feature prominently in this style. The shape is often repeated throughout the home in cutouts between rooms, in windows, and in outdoor arcades that “create seamless passage from indoors to outdoors and provide some coverage from the sun” (socalcontractor).
Courtyards
The mild temperatures of Southern California encourage outdoor living, making courtyards and patios a key element of the Spanish Colonial Revival style. Blending interior and exterior living, these spaces often feature fireplaces with a tile surround (bhg.com). They also provide privacy and shade.
Wrought Iron
Weather it’s on balconies, windows, gates, stair railings, lanterns or light fixtures, wrought iron details showcase the exquisite craftsmanship and are another essential design element.
Painted Tiles and Patterns
Vibrant rich colored and intricate geometric patterned tiles are a hallmark of the Spanish Colonial Revival style tile. The neutral color palette of the home is offset by the colorful accent tiles. Traditionally hand painted, fired and glazed, the tiles are incorporated throughout the home on baseboards, around fireplaces, in kitchen’s backsplashes and countertops, bathroom niches, and in complex patterned floors.

Around town, Pasadena City Hall, Beverly Hills City Hall, “The Bachelor” mansion (ha!), and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse are all constructed in Spanish Colonial Revival style (missiontilewest.com). Let us know about your favorite representation of this style in the comments, we are always curious about what our readers like!
 
Laura McMahon