An Influence on Architecture-The California Mission Bell

The “El Camino Real Bells” along with their destination have long influenced today’s architecture.

My design career has been influenced by the history of the California missions, specifically when designing California classic homes and commercial buildings from this era.

The “El Camino Real Bells” were in place from the early part of the last century to designate the route of “El Camino Real” from San Diego to Sonoma, California. They were built by the Spanish during the early mission days.

370 original bells graced The El Camino Real, (Royal Highway or King’s Highway), which is guided by Highway 101 in California. The El Camino Real is the first recorded road in the state, and was built by the Spanish when the missions were operational.

Most bells were produced in the 1920’s and over the years have been displayed on commercial and residential properties of historical importance. They have a dignity denoting mission and convey the Spanish Colonial or Spanish Revival periods.

When I was commissioned to design homes and commercial buildings from this era, some of my travel and research took me through the El Camino Real, reviewing the homes and buildings of the 1920’s. This allowed me to journey back into time and find sources sensitive to the era and lifestyle. This would assist me in the design which would soon be dictated by the historic influence of these periods. I found skilled artisans who hand painted tile from this era and were baking them on site all while I watched. There were shops with one-of-a-kind 1920’s lanterns, hardware, vintage iron and vintage wood carvings and of course, old mission bells.

When we look at a beautifully well constructed home or building with a unique design that stands out, is rich in history, is a meticulous reproduction of an era, however new in amenities, it more than likely is the result of a dedicated designer’s travels and research which has been interpreted into an owner’s dream.

While Spanish Colonial is a classic period it is only part of the Miller Young Design portfolio of style and eras that we embrace. We at Miller Young Design have created “Classic Origins” for connoisseurs of traditional homes. This is a signature design for those who desire a home designed with authentic influences enhanced by a library of fine pieces crafted in Old World techniques, celebrated in spaces of serene contentment.

Posted by:Linda Young