Style Guidelines

Re Nicolai Ouroussoff’s “Architecture Under Glass” (July 9):

In the case of the Home Savings building on Wilshire Boulevard, the city consulted with historic experts regarding the building’s significance and the impact that the proposed design might have on specific features of the building, The decision of the board was not unanimous, but it did generate thoughtful discussion about the role of existing buildings with a history in the community and in Southern California and how to modify those buildings while preserving their significance.

His other example, of the single-family house in Ocean Park, has also generated much discussion. In this case, a house trying to fit into the International Style is proposed amid a well-preserved row of Craftsman bungalows that reflect a significant period of time in the development of Santa Monica.

The common thread in both discussions should be that great architecture does not overlook the context of its location, The Architectural Review Board strives to be both sensitive to the preservation of the notable past and open to the spirit of great and innovative architecture. It is often a delicate and difficult balance.

SUSAN HEALY KEENE

City of Santa Monica, Planning and

Community Development Department