# Architectural Styles in San Marino Real Estate

Living in San Marino means residents have robust local amenities at their fingertips from sprawling parks to elegant eateries, and estates here feature world-class designs that you don’t want to miss. Much of the neighborhood’s architecture embraces Southern California’s balmy climate and breezy way of life — you’ll find a mix of Craftsman bungalows, Mediterranean estates, and Mission Revival homesteads throughout.

Mediterranean-inspired architecture exudes an effortless grace. Perfect for San Marino’s balmy climate, these estates are airy and open, often with wide windows that let in generous amounts of natural light and cool, refreshing breezes. You’ll be able to spot this style of architecture when browsing San Marino real estate by looking for the tell-tale red clay tile roofs that provide an earthy elegance.

Craftsman-style homes are widespread throughout the San Marino area, and it’s easy to see why. Front facades are almost exclusively adorned with wide porches that are perfect for relaxing in the afternoons and soaking in San Marino’s arguably perfect weather. You’ll often see significant columns out front that support a low-pitched gabled roof, and inside, the cozy floor plans are ideal for families. This style emphasizes organic materials like wood and stone throughout and highlights delicate craftsmanship.

Spanish Revival homes are a historic set-piece in San Marino real estate. Surging in popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, this style evokes a glamorous ambiance without being too stuffy — which matches perfectly with San Marino’s sophisticated demeanor. Similar to Mediterranean, Spanish Revival homes often wear white-washed stucco walls ideal for this area’s climate. Terracotta roofs are a staple here, adding a bit of color, and don’t be surprised to see wrought-iron details and intricate archways when browsing Spanish Revival homes for sale in San Marino.

El Molino Viejo is one of San Marino’s most popular historical and architectural landmarks. The building holds a rich history and a notable California cultural center. The building was completed in 1816, and it was used as a grist mill for Mission San Gabriel, which is the original two-story building. El Molino Viejo is documented as the oldest commercial building in Southern California. The building was designed by Father Jose Maria de Zalvidea in 1816 and remained in operation for seven years. It provided many resources to its surrounding areas and neighborhoods.

By 1823, a newer and more efficient building was installed adjacent to it and the property was then inherited by the Kewen Family in 1858. The building was refurbished and redesigned by adding a patio and large windows, while still holding its original look from 1816. The Old Mill was restored two more times by the late 1920s until it was officially turned over into the care and use of The Old Mill Foundation in 1995. By 2016, El Molino Viejo (The Old Mill) celebrated its 200th year anniversary.

Some major components that went into the restoration of the building include lower walls that are five feet thick, composed of oven-baked brick and volcanic tuff. Meanwhile, the walls on the upper level of the building are built from layers of sun-dried adobe slabs. Rafters, ceilings, and beams are made of local pine and sycamore while the roof is tiled. Mortar made from lime burnt sea-shells covers the entire building. The centerpiece of The Old Mill’s garden is the Pomegranate Patio where many events are often held.