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The Small Pleasures of Bungalow Haven
The article provides a detailed exploration of Santa Barbara's Bungalow Haven neighborhood, an area characterized by its prevalent Craftsman-style bungalows. The author's initial encounter with the neighborhood occurred during the listing of a property at 1321 Alta Vista Road. The piece delves into the historical context of bungalow architecture in California, citing a 2013 proposal for the neighborhood to be designated a historic district. This proposal highlights the rapid proliferation of bungalows in California during the early 20th century, driven by a warm climate, economic opportunities, and the affordability offered by 'Ready-Cut Bungalow Company' kits. These kits, costing approximately $650 between 1910 and the 1920s, allowed for the delivery of all necessary construction materials to a lot, making homeownership accessible to many.
The Bungalow Haven district, generally bordered by Olive, Micheltorena, Alta Vista, and Victoria, played a significant role in housing Santa Barbara's expanding working and lower-middle-class population from 1900 to 1940, primarily due to its walking proximity to downtown. Over half of the houses in the proposed historic district are noted to be in the Craftsman style, reflecting the architectural trend of the era. The article showcases various examples of these bungalows through photographs, including both Craftsman and other bungalow styles, emphasizing their typically small scale.
Beyond the predominant bungalow architecture, the author also points out some less aesthetically pleasing structures within the neighborhood, such as an apartment complex and an office building, offering a balanced view of the area's development. Architectural curiosities are also highlighted, such as a ground-level window next to a front door and a front door situated above a garage. The article celebrates bold paint choices on some homes and details various charming elements encountered during the walk, including unique corner stairs, petite roundabouts, and occasional ocean views.
A particularly cherished aspect for the author is the presence of cul-de-sacs, which evoke a sense of micro-communities. The narrative includes a humorous anecdote about a misunderstanding with a resident regarding squirrels and macadamia nuts, illustrating the informal interactions possible within the neighborhood. The article also touches upon the nearby Bella Riviera, a planned community developed by the Cottage Health System on the former St. Francis Hospital site, designed to provide affordable housing for its employees. Historical markers at Bella Riviera offer insight into the site's past.
Finally, the article concludes by presenting a collection of other interesting details observed during the walk, such as a “HELP ME” sign on a porch, a “kittens” sign, a unique license plate, a flyer, candles, a distinctive mailbox, dog prints in a sidewalk, and a dog bowl. The author expresses the belief that Bungalow Haven deserves official recognition as a historic district, underscoring its unique character and historical significance. The article is part of a series titled "Walk With Me," which explores different neighborhoods.
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