The Spanish Revival in Santa Monica, designed by Ferguson & Shamamian Architects, is a testament to the enduring appeal of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Completed in 2013, this residence seamlessly integrates traditional design elements with modern comforts, reflecting the architects’ commitment to timeless aesthetics.
Situated on a challenging, narrow, and sloping site, the 12,000-square-foot home is thoughtfully designed to appear more modest than its actual size. Inspired by the picturesque villages of the Spanish countryside, the entrance features stucco walls adorned with antique ceramic tiles, leading to a terracotta-paved courtyard. An outdoor fireplace, topped with a chimney reminiscent of a bell tower, serves as a focal point, while Juliet balconies add to the architectural charm.
The interior spaces are rich in layered details and textures, characteristic of Spanish country houses. A cantilevered stone staircase, crafted from Grand Tortoise Limestone imported from China, serves as a central feature. Exquisitely detailed wooden ceilings and walls sheathed in stucco contribute to the home’s warm and inviting atmosphere. The design ensures that each room offers unique characteristics and idiosyncratic details, creating pockets of spaces to explore.
To address the site’s steep grade, the pool and pool house are situated a level below the main block of the house. Accessed either underground within the house or through exterior stairs and lushly planted paths, this thoughtful design maximizes the use of the land while maintaining the home’s aesthetic integrity.
The residence’s exterior is characterized by traditional wood balconies, reclaimed terracotta pavers, and a reclaimed Spanish tile roof. These elements pay homage to the Spanish Revival style, grounding the home in its architectural heritage. The design also incorporates modern amenities, ensuring the home meets contemporary standards of comfort and functionality.
Interior design elements include built-in bookcases paneled with decorative wallpaper and custom-made air-return grilles inspired by traditional Spanish Revival styles. The living room features a coffered ceiling with painted panels, adding depth and interest to the space. Antique furnishings and fixtures, such as marble and stone fireplaces, create a comfortable atmosphere that complements the home’s architectural elements.
The central stairway, a cantilevered structure made of Grand Tortoise Limestone, rises amid walls clad in hand-painted vintage tiles. Its wrought-iron balustrades, inspired by historic examples, delicately attach to the sides of the risers, adding width and lightness to the design.
The residence’s design reflects Ferguson & Shamamian Architects’ expertise in adapting traditional architectural styles to contemporary needs. By integrating elements of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with modern design principles, the Spanish Revival in Santa Monica offers a harmonious living environment that honors its historical roots while embracing modernity.
The collaboration between Ferguson & Shamamian Architects, interior designer Michael S. Smith, and landscape architect Inner Gardens has resulted in a residence that is both architecturally significant and deeply connected to its surroundings. The thoughtful design and attention to detail ensure that the Spanish Revival in Santa Monica remains a cherished home for its inhabitants.
In summary, the Spanish Revival in Santa Monica stands as a remarkable example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, skillfully reinterpreted by Ferguson & Shamamian Architects. Its blend of traditional design elements with modern comforts creates a timeless residence that pays homage to its architectural heritage while meeting the needs of contemporary living.
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