Customer Reviews

George Washington Smith: Architect of the Spanish-Colonial Revival

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Patricia Gebhard has done a superb job in carrying on the tradition of David Gebhard, her deceased husband, who was masterful at the collection of information on architecture and able to portray it to the reader in a very logical way. It is the most completely detailed book written yet on George Washington Smith, one of the most forward and original developers of the the Spanish Revival style that swept America in the 1920's and has enjoyed a rebirth in recent years. The illustrations are excellent throughout the book, both old and new ones. Anyone interested in this style of architecture, whether an architect, designer or any person interested in this style that has left such an important mark in American architecture, should buy and enjoy this book.

When one thinks of southern california architecture, spanish colonial revival style always comes to the forefront and George Washington Smith was at the apex of the style. This is a well researched and chronicled book on this singular architect. The images are crisp and well thought out. This style of architecture suits the mediteranian climate of southern califoria perfectly, it really is the perfect blend of style and setting. When someone asks me, where would you live if you could choose anywhere and i always answer, Santa Barbara, where spanish colonial revival florishs unabated and the sun shines year round. If you have any interest in great residental architecture or just appreciate wonderful books, then i cant imagine you being disappointed in this purchase. Highly recommended.

An interesting book from a historical and academic perspective. It is well written and illustrative photos are included. Good as a reference book for architectural style but not a book for those interested in interior decoration.

A very well written book documenting the life of architect George Washington Smith, and the beautiful architecture that he created.

This book has a great balance of photos, renderings, floor plans and written history about GW Smith. It is clearly organized, and provides specific information about individual projects, his personality, and those of his clients and the associates he worked with.

It is a "Must Have" for designers and architects that admire and have a passion for 1920's Spanish Revival architecture.

I have personally used this book as a reference for a George Washington Smith restoration project in Montecito CA. It is invaluable for studying classic GW Smith, and incorporating the essence and spirit of his work into the renovation, new additions and landscape upgrades.

Jeff Doubet

Design by Doubet

[...]

Santa Barbara, CA

Our church is changing our open garden to a cloister-type space enclosed by a wall. The church was designed in Spanish Revival architecture so we wanted something in the California Mission style. This book has proven to be an invaluable resource for us.