About Architect Bertram Goodhue
Bertram Goodhue is known for reinterpreting the masterful Spanish Baroque and Spanish Colonial architecture, incorporating traditional Churrigueresque detailing to create what became known as the Spanish Colonial Revival Style. His designs led to the assimilation of Spanish Colonial Revival Style architecture as California's dominant historical regional building design, a trend that continues today.
Goodhue's journey began not in the hallowed halls of academia, but as an apprentice in a prestigious New York firm. Only fifteen years old at the time, he refined his craft, meticulously copying the drawings of senior architects—an essential skill in an era predating copy machines. Despite the modest compensation of $5 a month, which exceeded the norm for apprentices, Goodhue seized the opportunity to immerse himself in the intricacies of architectural design.
In 1891, Goodhue experienced his first taste of success when he clinched a cathedral design competition in Dallas—a breakthrough moment that marked the beginning of his illustrious career. In the subsequent year, he embarked on a transformative journey through Mexico where he became captivated by the country's architecture. The profound impact of these travels reverberated throughout much of his work, infusing his designs with a distinctive flair inspired by the cultural landscape of Mexico.
Over the years, Goodhue's architectural odyssey took him far and wide, from the ornate cathedrals of Europe to the sun-drenched landscapes of Mexico. It was during his travels that he developed a deep appreciation for the intricate beauty of Spanish Colonial architecture—a fascination that would leave an indelible imprint on his later work.
The Santa Barbara Connection
Goodhue's connection with Santa Barbara was forged when he was commissioned to design El Fureidis, an enchanting estate known as the “Scarface” mansion nestled in the heart of Montecito. Drawing inspiration from Spanish, Italian, and Persian influences, Goodhue crafted a masterpiece that would become a hallmark of our local architectural splendor.
In 1902, his firm secured the prestigious commission to reimagine the Military Academy at West Point, prompting Goodhue to relocate to New York, where he eventually established his own firm in 1914. During this transformative period, Goodhue solidified his reputation as a master architect, renowned for his ecclesiastical or church design expertise. He left an indelible mark on landscapes from New York to Pittsburgh and Havana, earning him widespread acclaim and admiration.
The summer of 1916 brought Goodhue back to our coastal haven—this time by the Santa Barbara Country Club officials, later rechristened as the Montecito Country Club (now Montecito Club). Perched high on a hill overlooking the scenic vistas of Hot Springs Road, Goodhue's design for the clubhouse was nothing short of revolutionary. With its towering three-story tower and distinctive blend of architectural styles, the clubhouse sparked both admiration and controversy, nearly succumbing to the weight of its lofty construction costs.
Goodhue's architectural contributions continued in the region. He crafted the design for Henry Dater Jr.'s Montecito residence and surrounding grounds, which reached completion in 1918. This remarkable estate later evolved into Val Verde, the cherished home of Wright Ludington.
His special touch can be seen in the rebuilding of Santa Barbara after the 1925 earthquake, inspired by local Mission Revival and Goodhue's Spanish Colonial Revival style from the Panama-California Exposition. As you navigate the streets of Santa Barbara today, you will find his sensibility in the very fabric of our city's rich architectural heritage with designs that continue to captivate and inspire.
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Beyond Santa Barbara
Beyond our shores, Goodhue's portfolio boasted iconic landmarks such as the monumental Los Angeles Public Library pictured above, the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C., and the stately Nebraska State Capitol. Notably, he also left his mark on the entire company town of Tyrone, New Mexico, showcasing his versatility and mastery across diverse architectural styles.
Goodhue's talent for building noteworthy creations was matched only by his artistic versatility. In addition to his architectural endeavors, he ventured into the realm of typeface design, creating iconic fonts such as Cheltenham and Merrymount—earning him accolades and admiration from coast to coast.
Tragically, Goodhue's life was cut short in 1924, a mere five days shy of his 55th birthday. Nevertheless, his enduring influence persists in the timeless beauty of his architectural creations, which continue to grace the landscape of Santa Barbara and beyond.
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