By Karen Blechman Santa Monica
Residents of the Third Street Neighborhood Historic District were gratified by the Landmarks Commission’s decision not to approve the project proposed for 2617 Third Street, a sensitive site in the designated historic district (“Controversial project rejected,” page 1, Jan.17). They are grateful to the landmarks commissioners who, in addition to taking the time to visit the district repeatedly over the many months of hearings, studied the Historic District Guidelines carefully. That diligence allowed these commissioners to understand the intent of the guidelines, namely to protect the district from incompatible development that would harm the integrity of the district.
The design in question was in the Modernist architectural style, a particular style that emerged in the mid-20th century and is still popular among architects today. It is a starkly elegant style, very rectilinear, and often incorporates large expanses of glass. As an architectural style it has no relationship to the California Bungalow style whatsoever.
The residents of the district see themselves as custodians and caretakers of the beautiful old homes in which they live. A few years ago, many of the houses were fast becoming derelict. A small dwelling behind one of the homes was condemned as unfit for habitation by city inspectors and had to be torn down. A decaying garage was also removed with the approval of the Landmarks Commission. Mostly, however, the story of the district in recent years has been one of successful restoration of the old homes by owners who care deeply about historic preservation and who have done their utmost to make sure these historic houses will survive to give pleasure to future generations.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on January 29, 2008. Read the original PDF.