Santa Fe, New Mexico is known as the premier location of the quintessential southwestern style. This style includes traditional southwestern Pueblo, Territorial, and other regional architectural elements. Some of these elements incorporate earth-toned stucco walls, exposed beams (vigas), large covered porches (portales), flat roofs, terra cotta tiles for floors/walls, high-desert minimalist landscaping, and other traditional components. The styles pre-date New Mexico’s statehood in 1912 and they have direct links to the pre-statehood territorial period of 19^th and early 20^th century. In the late 1950’s the city of Santa Fe passed ordinances controlling the look of new and rebuilt construction, especially in its historic districts, as a continuation of the Santa Fe Style. Other cities, with significant historic districts, have also adopted strict architectural guidelines; notably the American southeast cities of Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. Continue reading →