The City Different: The History of Santa Fe’s Architecture
Avalon Dzurec
The architecture found in the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico, is vastly different from that of other American cities. A great variety of architectural styles and revivals can be found in the unique city that appears modern but still seems to come from the past. Such styles of architecture, for example, Pueblo, Spanish Colonial and Territorial styles are remnants of the area’s colorful history and the peoples who occupied it. This research paper provides a deeper examination of these architectural styles from the first dates of occupation to present day with five architectural investigations of current structures in the city and their histories through past and present photos and blueprints. Additionally, it highlights the unique architectural features of each style and includes explanations based on the societal preferences of the different cultures who inhabited the Santa Fe area. Furthermore, the characteristics of these architectural forms have been reapplied in architectural revivals practiced today; such as Spanish Pueblo, Territorial and Mission Revival styles that create a distinctive appearance to Santa Fe. This research paper assesses these styles in architectural examination, providing understanding for the regulations that ensure the preservation of all past and future structures to maintain the specific “Santa Fe style”. Ultimately, the architectural research and examination in this paper provides evidence that the architecture of Santa Fe has adapted to the societal preferences of its varying occupants for centuries, creating a rich history that influences its current culture and society today through historical architectural preservation.
Avalon Dzurec is a high school junior attending Mandela International Magnet School in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She expects to graduate in May of 2027 with the full International Baccalaureate Diploma. After graduation, Avalon plans to pursue a further education at a large university on the east coast or in Colorado, her top two favorites currently standing as University of Maryland and Colorado State University. Her favorite choices of majors are journalism, social sciences, environmental sciences or a combination of them. She runs track and cross country and loves to read, write and draw in her free time.
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