Ramona Street Architectural District, Historic commercial district in downtown Palo Alto, US.
Ramona Street Architectural District comprises eight buildings built between 1924 and 1938 featuring Spanish Colonial Revival elements including stucco walls, red tile roofs, and arched openings. The structures continue to serve their original purpose, with retail spaces at street level and professional offices above, maintaining active commercial use.
Pedro de Lemos initiated development of the district in 1925 with the Gotham Shop, designing the building to preserve an existing oak tree on the site. This early project established the architectural character that influenced subsequent construction in the area through the late 1930s.
The district reflects how early twentieth-century business owners adapted Spanish Colonial design for their commercial buildings along this street. The arches, wrought iron details, and courtyards remain visible features that shape how people move through and use the space today.
The buildings are easily walkable and form a connected group along the street, making exploration on foot straightforward. As an active commercial area, most entrances remain accessible and the street provides clear views of all structures.
The buildings vary deliberately in their roof heights, recessed entrances, and balcony placements rather than following a uniform pattern. This intentional irregularity creates visual interest and demonstrates how each structure was designed independently while still contributing to a cohesive whole.
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