Having grown up in California, I feel a certain kinship to the Spanish Style more than any other. One of my fondest childhood memories is of my family’s pilgrimage to most all of the California Missions the summer before 4th grade. These stoic relics of days gone past were infinitely fascinating to me; each one a unique maze of secret places to explore. Even then I felt distinctly affected by the architecture; both sacred and mysterious. I realize now that the overtly simple use of readily available materials, mud and wood, created their inherently powerful masses and handsome details. It is in Villa Rosa that we finally have the pleasure to reflect on the roots of those memories and try, in our own small way, to pay our respects to the authentic traditions of the California Spanish Style. Of course it is a modern house, with modern amenities and modern construction techniques, yet its form and detail are basic and authentic; thickened mass walls support dramatically stout black brown timbers. The plan is derived purely from function, as was the assemblage of buildings that made up yesterday’s Mission villages. It may seem superficially eclectic, but serves this family well, inviting exploration and offering pleasant surprises around each corner; revealing its secrets only through time and experience.