Following a devastating earthquake in 1925 that destroyed most of Santa Barbara’s significant buildings, the city became the first in the country to have a controlled building plan using elements of Spanish colonial architecture. Californian architecture is a distinctive style—the product of many architects, it is inspired by the play of sunshine on light surfaces as well as the contrast of deep shadows. In 1929 the author presented 231 photos and plans of the rebuilt city: its public and commercial buildings, homes, interiors, and gardens.