Historic Orange County Architecture Worth Seeing

It’s interesting to look at historical sites without knowing much about them and only appreciating their appearance. Then, when you read about them, it brings a whole new perspective into the picture.

Let’s start with Mission San Juan Capistrano, which is one of Orange County’s most important pieces of historical architecture. Mission San Juan Capistrano’s Great Stone Church wears her Classical Greco-Roman Style exterior with pride for all her accomplishments. The Great Stone Church is the largest Spanish-style building ever constructed in California.

Along with today’s inclusive movement, this piece of Orange County architecture is a standing tribute to California’s multicultural past, including its Spanish, Mexican, Native American, and European heritage. Let’s not forget the ‘Annual Return of the Swallows,’ which in itself is divine intervention and should be witnessed. Every year more than 300,000 people come from near and far for this spectacular event. For more information, visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano website.

Our next stop is the Lovell Beach House in Newport Beach. This gorgeous piece of Orange County architecture is said to be one of the most outstanding achievements of cutting-edge modern-style architect Rudolph Michael Schindler. The inspiration for the Lovell Beach House was the client’s healthy lifestyle that he had adopted.

Schindler designed the main living area on the north side of the house to maximize fresh air circulation throughout the house. Philip M. Lovell, the client, hired architect Schindler for his healthy lifestyle principles. 

Schindler ensured the beach house had cross ventilation; each bedroom had a large window — the idea was that the house wouldn’t need air conditioning. Usually, beach houses don’t require air conditioning, and this house was located right at Newport Beach, but perhaps he didn’t consider that. The Lovell Beach House is a private residence, so YouTube is the best way to experience it.

To finish this tribute to Orange County architecture, we are presenting Old Towne Orange Historic District. According to the Preserve Orange County Association, the architecture is in its original integrity. This neighborhood of original architecture has prospered into antique stores, small boutiques, offices, and restaurants. Time stopped here in Old Towne Orange! Check out this walking tour and enjoy.

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On The Road With ADG

Proud to be a sponsor along with Monograph at the EntreArchitect Community Annual Meeting!

by Gerald Olesker, CEO, ADG Lighting