Santa Barbara’s rules have reason

IT was a treat to see the article on Jeff Shelton’s work [“Pushing the City’s Limits” Jan. 19]. I’ve long admired his Zannon house, though I didn’t know who designed it. As a resident of Santa Barbara, I couldn’t be happier that he’s working here. I have to object to the professor’s pronouncement that the architecture here is “mediocre.” As a designer myself, I understand the impulse to “make your mark.” However, the design restrictions in place here have always looked at the broader picture, requiring structures to “blend in.” Rather than a collection of single monuments to this or that “vision” all competing cheek by jowl in a visual jungle, we’ve built an entire town that’s a delight to look at.

NORAH MCMEEKING

Santa Barbara

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AS a graduate of SCI-Arc and a current resident of Santa Barbara, I find the work of Jeff Shelton inspiring in challenging the convention of architecture here, which is based on the work of George Washington Smith. The city ordinances, which control the style of buildings, tend to be antiquated and stale. In a town like Santa Barbara, where most of the residents are well-versed, educated and sophisticated, architecture should be expressive, critical and diverse.

QUIRINO DE LA CUESTA

Santa Barbara