Spanish Colonial Style: Santa Barbara and the Architecture of James Osborne Craig and Mary McLaughlin Craig

This is a excellent compilation of works by James Craig and Mary Craig. This book covers several architectural and interior designs of Santa Barbara style homes. In my quest for information on this subject I just by chance came upon it. I have many books that direct attention to the Spanish colonial period but this book really covers the subject well.The revival of the period came about in Los Angeles when up and coming societal families were engaging artists to create luxury homes. Los Angeles with its Mediterrean climate lended a hand in the decision of selecting designs of old Spanish colonialism. The vegetation of the Los Angeles basin strikes a wonderful accent to the stark white and umber browns. Many of the colonial homes still stand in their glory and since many were built in the Santa Barbara region, they have absorbed the name into their description.I have used this book to identify the architectural qualities of the home that I am renovating. The home was originally of Spanish colonial design. The design has lost its way with interpretations that infuse other periods into the whole and I am trying to redirect these into a strong Spanish motif. I am using the information from this book to better enhance those qualities that are already manifested in the building. I am very keen on the details of the period. This book defines the Spanish Colonial period through the arched doorways, and textural highlights. Whole houses are examined, from the blue prints to the finishing touches of exterior lighting. Examples are given of various handrails, as well as the styling of fireplaces. If you are renovating an existing home or savoring the elegance of the period, this is a collection of drawings and photographs that you will enjoy reviewing. I highly endorse this collection.

The book has beautiful pictures of the architecture of the period. It's a great book to have by those who appreciate construction as well as those that need inspiration and ideas for their own projects.

For those who love Spanish Colonial Style architecture, as I do, this is a fabulous book. And for those who love the architectural style of Santa Barbara homes and buildings this is for you. The research is excellent. The photographs are beautiful. It is a wonderful history of two amazing people who influenced the style and beauty of Santa Barbara homes and offices.

This is an excellent study of James Osborn Craig's designs in Santa Barbara. It is quite complete and well photographed. It is an excellent addition for those who are interested in Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture.

GOOD BOOK

Was hoping for more photographs.

Expected more pictures.

Beautiful coffee table book