Distinctive Mediterranean / Mission / Spanish Homes

Sunshine WHILE LIVING IN a wetland

Let’s talk about some of these styles and how they are similar and distinct. They may seem like a fish out of water in the Northwest but they have a number of fans who love their charm and romance.

The Mediterranean or Italian Revival drew from the style of Mediterranean seaside villas and palaces and was a precursor to the Spanish Colonial Revival. Integrated into their setting, designs gave equal measure to the home and its integration into the land/gardens surrounding it. They typically focus on patios, courtyards, and verandas as ways to bring the outside in.

Mission Revival was inspired by the Spanish missions that were found on the California coast.

Spanish Revival (aka Spanish Eclectic or Spanish Colonial) drew inspiration from the Mission style and is designed with walled courtyards for easy indoor/outdoor living. Reminiscent of Spanish villages with an abundance of tiles, color, and texture.

SHARED Characteristics AMONG STYLES

• 1 - 2 stories

• Low-pitched, tabled tile to flat roofs

• Red tile roofs

• Minimal eave with little or no overhang

• Arched doors, entries, and windows

• Stucco or plaster walls

• Porticos

• Heavy wooden doors

• Multi-color tiles

UNIQUE TO MEDITERRANEAN REVIVAL (1890 - 1935)

• Rectangular floor plan

• Stucco, stone, brick, and concrete blocks

• Massive, symmetrical, or asymmetrical primary facades

• Wood or wrought iron balconies

• Window grilles

• Simple to dramatic ornamentation

• Entry may be recessed or highlighted with classical columns or pilasters

UNIQUE TO MISSION (1890 - 1940)

• Roof Parapets

• Asymmetrical facade

• Large square pillars

• Twisted columns

• Covered walkways

• Round or quatrefoil windows

• Tile, iron, and wood elements are used sparingly

Unique to Spanish Revival (1910 - 1940)

• Balconies

• Asymmetrical facade

Mediterranean / Mission / Spanish homes are not easy to find in Portland but if you would like to gander at some try these neighborhoods.

• Irvington

• Laurelhurst