The South Beach Tour: Living History by the Sea
October 20, 2019 |
Don't miss the Conservancy's self-guided South Beach Tour on October 20. Discover the eclectic architecture of this historic neighborhood with views of the shimmering Pacific.
On Ocean Park Boulevard, a trio of beach cottages at 119, 123 and 125 are some of the earliest homes in South Beach and representative of the neighborhood's unique streetscape. Built in the early 1900s, their front gable roofs have overhanging eaves and exposed rafter tails. The structures also share wood cladding and porches enclosed with windows--a common alteration in the area.
Sited closely like sisters sharing secrets, the cottages are separated only by narrow walkways. But the sisterhood was nearly broken in 2014 by a demolition permit seeking to clear the way for a two-story contemporary residence on the middle lot.
Working quickly, the Santa Monica Landmarks Commission saved the house by denying the permit and designating the house a Structure of Merit. Had the Landmarks Commission not acted, the unified historic character of the block would have been disrupted, potentially setting a dangerous precedent for the future of the South Beach neighborhood.
Across the street and extending down to Venice, hundreds of similar beach cottages were razed by the City in a 1960s “urban renewal” project.
Today, the major threat to the charming flavor of South Beach and its vintage homes is replacement by modern two-story homes, such as what nearly happened to the cottage at 123.
Purchase your tickets for The South Beach Tour today and explore four blocks of this historic neighborhood's architectural treasures. After your tour, join us for refreshments at our separately ticketed reception at Horatio West Court where former Landmarks Commissioner Margaret Bach will talk about this modernist masterpiece. Designed by Irving Gill, this collection of connected homes is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Proceeds will support the Conservancy’s educational programs.
Sunday, October 20
Tours 11 am - 4 pm
Reception 3-5 pm |
Website:
www.smconservancy.org |
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| Location Information |
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Santa Monica, CA |
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| Contact Information |
| Email:
rsvp@smconservancy.org |
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