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SANTA BARBARA ARCHITECT (AND TOUR GUIDE) JEFF SHELTON

April 29, 2024

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Santa Barbara, often dubbed "The American Riviera," is a city renowned for its picturesque landscapes, Mediterranean climate, and, notably, its architectural charm. For decades, the coastal enclave has been defined by a consistent aesthetic—a fusion of Spanish Colonial Revival influences characterized by red-tiled roofs, whitewashed buildings, and intricate Spanish-Moorish accents. This architectural legacy, meticulously preserved since the early 1920s, has become synonymous with the city's identity, embodying its rich cultural heritage and timeless elegance. However, amidst the backdrop of tradition, a visionary architect has emerged whose work challenges conventional norms and redefines the architectural landscape of Santa Barbara.


Santa Barbara architect Jeff Shelton standing in the doorway of the lime green and poster-covered.
Photo Credit Chris Jenkins

Enter Architect Jeff Shelton

Jeff Shelton is not your typical architect. This native son of Santa Barbara has breathed new life into the city’s architectural tradition with his distinctive flair for innovation and a penchant for whimsical design. As such, Shelton has become a beacon of creativity in Santa Barbara's architectural scene. Over the past 30 years, Shelton has spearheaded a remarkable transformation, infusing the cityscape with a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic that captivates the imagination and challenges perceptions of what architecture can be. Watch this video, and you'll understand what I'm talking about.

Collaborating with a diverse team of local artisans, builders, and craftspeople — most notably Dan Upton Construction, and his own siblings — Shelton has left an indelible mark on the city, with more than 60 residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects to his name. His architectural vision celebrates Santa Barbara's past, present, and future; a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that resonates with residents and visitors alike.

The courtyard of a Jeff Shelton-designed two-story building that incorporates traditional Mediterranean design elements and Shelton's bold, whimsical, contemporary twists.
Photo Credit Jason Rick

Embracing a Fearless Approach to Design

What sets him apart is his fearless approach to design. While respecting the rich tapestry of Santa Barbara's architectural heritage, he seamlessly integrates traditional elements with bold, contemporary twists, creating spaces that are both timeless and cutting-edge. His buildings exude a sense of whimsy and playfulness, characterized by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unexpected details that surprise and delight at every turn.

Shelton's creations have become beloved landmarks in their own right, attracting admiration and acclaim from architectural enthusiasts worldwide. One of his most notable achievements is revitalizing the downtown core. That’s where you’ll find eight of his signature designs clustered within a 10-block radius, forming a modern-day architectural marvel that contrasts the city's historic landmarks. Included in that collection is the iconic "El Zapato" building with its whimsical shoe-shaped façade.

A whimsical, cartoon-style map drawn by architect Jeff Shelton depicting the Santa Barbara walking tour of Shelton's buildings.

A Unique Walking Tour Exploring Singular Architectural Gems

For those eager to experience Shelton's architectural marvels firsthand, a self-guided Jeff Shelton Architecture Walking Tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore the city's contemporary architectural gems. The downtown walking tour starts at The Pistachio House (407 State Street), a fittingly named project crafted for the owners of Santa Barbara Pistachio Co. The commercial front section, dating back to 1925, sets the stage for Jeff's residential addition, which was completed in 2002. Explore the inviting outdoor living spaces adorning all four sides, adorned with tile "blankets" cascading over the second-floor balcony and ironwork inspired by pistachio nuts and leaves.

The Jeff Shelton-designed, 5-story, Ablitt Tower near downtown Santa Barbara, displaying the architect's whimsical, Dr. Seuss-like design elements, and illuminated from within at dusk.
Photo credit Jim Bartsch

From there, you’ll walk to see Jeff's crowning achievement, the Ablitt Tower (13 West Haley Street), located on the same block. Despite its modest 20 x 20 foot lot nestled in a commercial alley, this five-story marvel, erected in 2006, defies expectations. Rising 53 feet above ground with caissons delving 40 feet below, its narrow proportions and whimsical details evoke imagery straight out of a Dr. Seuss book. From the wavy lines to the asymmetrical windows offering panoramic city views, every aspect exudes charm. With 680 square feet of usable living space, including one bedroom, a living room, one-and-a-half baths, and both indoor and outdoor kitchens, the Ablitts—proprietors of a local multi-generational dry cleaning business—now offer this unique dwelling to visitors, inviting them to experience its magic firsthand.

A portion of a highly stylized courtyard at a Jeff Shelton-designed condo complex, showing large, modified Ogee arches.

Next up is El Andaluz (531 Chapala Street) on Chapala Street, a grand condo complex erected on the site of a former parking lot. Opening its doors in 2009, this three-story residential edifice boasts a timeless interior courtyard design adorned with vibrant tile work, exotic fruit plantings, and a magnificent fountain. A bridge connecting the two buildings not only adds architectural intrigue but also serves as a captivating entry point. Reflecting Jeff's collaborative ethos, a retired science teacher was enlisted to assist with tiling the front arches, while Jeff himself meticulously painted the exterior woodwork to ensure the project remained within budget.

As a companion to the traditional Red Tile Walking Tour, this modern-day odyssey provides insight into Shelton's creative process and the inspiration behind his most iconic designs.

A fun and interesting looking building with a beautiful tree in front and lots of tile and balconies
Photo Credit Jason Rick

Epitomizing Santa Barbara’s Enduring Creative Spirit

In essence, Jeff Shelton represents the evolution of Santa Barbara's architectural identity, a testament to the city's enduring spirit of innovation and creativity. By challenging convention and pushing the boundaries of design, he has redefined what it means to build in Santa Barbara, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

Santa Barbara's architectural landscape is a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and unwavering commitment to tradition. However, visionaries like Jeff Shelton breathe new life into these timeless traditions, infusing them with creativity, innovation, and a sense of wonder. As we continue celebrating Santa Barbara's architectural legacy, let us also embrace the spirit of exploration and discovery that defines local architects like Shelton and their extraordinary contributions to our beloved city.

If you’re excited to embark on Jeff Shelton’s architectural tour, simply download the map, slip on your walking shoes (or flip flops—no hills required!), and immerse yourself in his enchanting world. Meanwhile, if you're searching for a classically Mediterranean estate, a contemporary estate with breathtaking panoramic ocean vistas, or some other fantastic property currently on the market here, please allow me to assist you every step of the way in selling and buying. Reach out today at (805) 886-9378 or via email at Cristal@montecito-estate.com to kickstart your journey towards owning a piece of Santa Barbara's architectural heritage.


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