What is Santa Fe Style?

We hear time and time again from our clients that they were drawn to Santa Fe because of its beautiful, unique, historically rich architecture. Interest first came to the city towards the end of the 19th century when Americans began exploring the southwest and became fascinated by the Native American and Hispanic cultures. City founders quickly saw the potential for tourism and harnessed the architectural beauty of Spanish/Pueblo revival to build a community to attract visitors and revenue.

Santa Fe style is unmistakable because of its use of indigenous materials: Pueblo-style adobe exteriors, thick hand-plastered walls, carved wooden doors, exposed natural wood vigas, and earthy hues. Santa Fe is all about celebrating and mixing in local cultures: Native American, Hispanic, Anglo, and even American and European.

Form also frequently follows function. Many of the style’s thick wooden beams (vigas) not only add warmth and character to a space; they serve a practical purpose by being structurally integral to the building. No space is wasted because design vision and function play perfectly together in Santa Fe style.

It’s no wonder that anthropologists, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to this city. Santa Fe style perfectly complements the rolling landscape dotted with classic southwestern vegetation. Style takes its hint from the vast array of colors from the landscape and the spectacular sunsets. We’re truly glad to call this beautiful city home and love crafting custom homes that combine tradition, beauty, and function.