The Spanish influence lives on in this house designed almost 100 years ago, which once belonged to Washington Smith, a career architect on the rise in the 1920s who became known for bringing the Spanish colonial style to Californian neighbourhoods — precisely in the Montecito area, with a significant presence of Spanish Revival architecture and craftsmanship throughout the neighbourhoods.
Today, it is Justine Roddick and Tina Schlieske, accompanied by their grown-up children and their two dogs, who live in the house. ‘The owners are a creative super duo, each with their own impeccable taste and whose opinions and perspectives provided inspiration for the overall design of the spaces,’ says Tamara Honey, the designer in charge of the House of Honey studio, a women’s collective with an aesthetic that is characterised by the creation of ‘meaningful experiences’ and with the aim of ‘evoking emotions’. And that’s just what they did.
With a focus on the house’s historical roots, combined with modern design touches, the 432 m2 structure features original details such as coffered ceilings, handmade red tiles on the floor and murals by the painter Ramos Martinez, complemented by colourful designs tailored to the extravagant atmosphere. Discovering and putting their trust in Tamara Honey’s work, they have been able to enhance this centenary gem. “I wanted to capitalise on the house’s Spanish architecture while adding a touch of Justine’s British roots to her design. The vision came to life by incorporating unique patterns throughout the house”, the designer explains.