One of the iconic regional home styles in San Diego is the Spanish Mission style. Just as the name implies, houses in this style have an appearance that calls to mind traditional Spanish missions like the historic Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá.
The Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá was founded in 1769, and it was during the decades that followed that Mission-style homes became popular throughout the area. After that first mission opened, twenty others followed in the state of California. As the missions spread, so did the home style.
Defining Characteristics of Mission-Style Homes
How can you recognize the Mission style? Here are some key features that distinguish this type of architecture:
- The exterior facades of Mission-style homes typically are finished with plaster, stucco, or stone. Most commonly, these exterior walls are white or off-white.
- Roofs for Mission houses feature distinctive red tiles.
- Other materials that are incorporated into Spanish Mission houses include stone, clay, timber and mud.
- Arches are often liberally incorporated into Mission-style homes. Doors and/or windows may be arched, or there could be arches between the patio columns.
- Sometimes a structure resembling a bell tower may be integrated into the home’s layout.
- Gardens and fountains are common exterior features in Spanish Mission homes.
- The design may be one or two floors.
- There may be wrought iron features.
Why Buy a Mission-Style Home in San Diego?
As you are conducting your home search, here are a few reasons to consider this style of home:
- Regional appeal. One of the main reasons to move into a Mission-style home in San Diego is to surround yourself daily with an architectural style that captures the spirit of Southern California. Not only is this style aesthetically beautiful, but it will connect you to the region’s rich history.
- Rugged materials. The stucco and tiles featured in this type of architecture are sturdy and long-lasting. They can stand up to a lot more wear and tear than softer materials.
- Low-maintenance. Because these homes are made of such high-quality materials, they require a lot less time, effort and expense to maintain. You can spend less time working on your home and more time enjoying it.
- Climate control. The stone, stucco, and plaster walls of Mission-style homes do a fantastic job reflecting light and heat and keeping the interiors cool and comfortable. This is a huge benefit in the hot climate of San Diego. You may not need to rely as heavily on your air conditioner in this style of home as you would in another type of home. That means you can cut HVAC costs, and potentially also stay cooler during power outages.
- Eco-friendly. When you do not need to run your air conditioner as much, you reduce your carbon footprint, which makes the Mission style environmentally-friendly.
- Outdoor spaces. With their beautiful archways, gardens, fountains and porches, Spanish Mission homes often feature incredible outdoor spaces to enjoy.
Your Mission-Style Dream Home
If you are dreaming of living in a San Diego home in the Spanish Mission style, I can connect you with a suitable mortgage. To schedule your consultation, please give me a call today at (619) 857-7191!
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