Spanish fantasy past

Spanish Fantasy Past is an invention of a Spanish past in a much more idealistic reality today. The architecture here in Southern California were not the types of structures that the Spanish actually built in their settlements here. Over the early 20th Century, this aesthetic was invented for the purpose of attracting tourism. I was not born nor raised in Southern California, but the southern United States, and have never seen so much Spanish architecture than I have after moving here. The white walls and red roofs were contrasting in such a beautiful manner, even if it is not realistic.

Balboa Park, San Diego, CA

In San Diego, the Spanish Fantasy aesthetic is sought after, as this look is so prevalent. The homes have stucco exterior, grand entrances, terra cotta flooring, and places for families to gather as family has always been important in European and Mexican culture. The beams were exposed, the wood stained dark, and tile throughout the home including the exterior. The whole style usually has warm colors, with splashes of blue usually in the tile.

Spanish-style home. Note the red brick, roofing, white stucco, and carved arch entryway.