Santa Barbara Apartments

Santa Barbara Apartments is a residential complex built in 1928 featuring arched openings, terracotta tiles, and stucco exterior walls in the Mediterranean style. The buildings form wings around central courtyards, creating a layered street presence along Hawthorne Boulevard.

Architect Elmer E. Feig designed this residential complex in 1928, introducing Mediterranean architectural elements to Portland's residential landscape. The building gained National Register of Historic Places recognition in 1989 as part of a broader documentation of the city's development.

Residents benefit from shared courtyards that encourage social interaction within this residential community. The Mediterranean design created an appealing living environment that influenced Portland's neighborhoods during the 1920s boom.

The complex sits on Hawthorne Boulevard in an active residential neighborhood with good pedestrian access and nearby businesses. Visitors should remember this is a private residential property and should remain on public areas while viewing the architecture.

This complex represents one of Portland's rare examples of Mediterranean architecture in a region where such European-inspired styles were uncommon. The building stands out as an unexpected architectural choice that reflected the diverse design preferences of the 1920s.