A historic decision

Re “In historic district, a conflict builds,” Nov. 11

The Third Street Neighborhood Historic District’s efforts in Santa Monica to stop the building of a two-story Modernist home that is three times the size of nearby structures should not be confused with favoring “faux historic” architecture.

If the proposed structure followed the established guidelines of being sensitive to surrounding structures, its design would not be such an issue. Those who buy in a historic district enter into a social contract with the city, wherein they agree to maintain the structure and preserve the character of the neighborhood by following established guidelines.

The structure intended for the heart of Santa Monica’s only historic district simply does not fit the guidelines.

I hope the city of Santa Monica will listen to the concerns of residents who have shown up at commission hearings to voice their opposition and request that the city enforce the guidelines. If the city allows this structure to be built, it will have ignored its own mandate of historic preservation.

Candace Veach

Santa Monica