GEORGE WASHINGTON SMITH

George Washington Smith (1876-1930) was an American architect who played a significant role in shaping the architectural landscape of the Santa Barbara area, California. He is best known for popularizing the Spanish Colonial Revival style in the region and for his influence on the history of American architecture.

Smith was born in East Liberty, Pennsylvania, and initially pursued a career in finance. Early in his life, he developed an interest in painting and studied painting and fine arts, with his paintings exhibited in both Europe and America. After a trip to Santa Barbara in 1916, he fell in love with the city’s natural beauty and decided to become an architect. Smith and his wife, Rachel Peabody Douglas, left Europe during World War I (the war) and settled in California, waiting for the world war to end. Their family life in Santa Barbara became an important part of his personal and professional journey.

Smith’s architectural style emphasized simple yet elegant designs, with clean lines, white stucco exteriors, red tile roofs, and wrought iron detailing. He studied painting in Paris at the Académie Julian of the Ecole des Beaux Arts, and his exposure to European and Andalusian style greatly influenced his work. He incorporated features such as courtyards, arches, and ornamental tiles, reflecting the Spanish Colonial Revival style that became synonymous with Santa Barbara architecture.

Some of Smith’s most iconic works include the Casa del Herrero (House of the Blacksmith), El Hogar (The Home), the George C. Stewart House, the Heberton house in Montecito, Los Sueños (Douglas house), and a notable house in Texas. He also designed his own house, which stands as a testament to his craftsmanship and vision. These houses exemplify his mastery of blending indoor and outdoor spaces, creating harmonious and inviting environments. The significance of the land and estate size in his notable projects, especially in the Santa Barbara area and Hope Ranch, is notable, with Santa Barbara Estates Inc. (the company) and Peter Bryce playing key roles in the development of Hope Ranch.

Smith designed homes for his neighbors and families, creating predominantly Spanish Colonial homes that contributed to the history and architectural identity of the Santa Barbara area. His work is preserved in design collections and the architecture and design collection at the University of California, Santa Barbara, ensuring that Smith's work and legacy endure.

Smith also designed civic buildings, such as the Lobero Theater, which is located on Canon Perdido Street in downtown Santa Barbara. He continued his architectural practice until his death in 1930, marking the end of a remarkable career.

George Washington Smith’s architectural legacy had a profound impact on Santa Barbara’s aesthetic identity. The influence of his buildings and office spaces, as well as his collaborations with Lutah Maria Riggs, helped establish the city’s distinctive architectural character. Smith's influence extended beyond California, reaching as far as York and Mexico, and his work continues to inspire architects and homeowners in the region and beyond to this day.

Introduction to the Architect

George Washington Smith was a visionary American architect whose influence on early 20th-century architecture is still felt today, particularly in Santa Barbara, California. Born on February 22, 1876, in East Liberty, Pennsylvania, Smith’s journey began with a deep appreciation for the fine arts, which he cultivated at the Pennsylvania Academy. His academic pursuits continued at Harvard University, where he further developed his artistic sensibilities. Smith’s passion for art and architecture was fueled by extensive travels throughout Europe, with a special fascination for the architectural traditions of Spain. These experiences inspired him to embrace the Spanish Colonial Revival style, characterized by red tile roofs, white stucco walls, and intricate ornamental details. After relocating to Santa Barbara in 1916, Smith’s career flourished as he became a leading figure in the region’s architectural transformation. Often referred to as the “Founding Father of the Spanish Colonial Revival,” George Washington Smith’s legacy is defined by his ability to blend European influences with the unique landscape and culture of California, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s identity.

Architectural Style

George Washington Smith’s architectural style is synonymous with the Spanish Colonial Revival movement that swept through Santa Barbara in the early 20th century. Drawing inspiration from his travels in Spain and Europe, Smith designed buildings that featured hallmark elements such as red tile roofs, white stucco exteriors, wrought iron accents, and lush courtyards. His work, including iconic structures like the Lobero Theater and Casa del Herrero, exemplifies the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces—a hallmark of Santa Barbara architecture. Smith’s attention to detail and commitment to authenticity set his designs apart, making them both timeless and uniquely suited to the California climate. The George Washington Smith papers, preserved at the Art, Design & Architecture Museum at the University of California, Santa Barbara, offer a window into his creative process and enduring influence. Today, Smith’s architectural philosophy continues to inspire architects and homeowners alike, solidifying his reputation as the “Founding Father of the Spanish Colonial Revival” and a defining force in the evolution of Santa Barbara’s built environment.