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Article: The Presidio Lantern: Inspired by Santa Barbara's Rich Heritage

El Presidio of Santa Barbara, California - The Presidio Light by Santa Barbara Lighting Company

The Presidio Lantern: Inspired by Santa Barbara's Rich Heritage

In the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, the El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park stands as a testament to California's rich history. This 5 1/2-acre park preserves the site of the last Spanish fortress, or presidio, founded in Alta California in 1782. Two original adobe buildings, El Cuartel and the Cañedo Adobe, still stand proudly, inviting visitors to delve into the region's past. As the Santa Barbara Lighting Company pays homage to this iconic location with its light fixture, The Presidio Lantern, let's explore the history behind El Presidio and how its design has inspired a piece that beautifully blends tradition with craftsmanship.

Preserving the Past: El Presidio SHP stands as a living museum, offering a glimpse into the region's history. The park's commitment to preservation allows visitors to explore the original adobe structures and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a bygone era. The Cañedo Adobe, serving as the Visitor Center, provides a starting point for a self-guided exploration of the park, allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural and historical significance of El Presidio.

The Presidio Lantern: Inspired by the enduring legacy of El Presidio Real De Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Lighting Company introduces The Presidio Lantern. This light fixture pays homage to the Spanish military outpost's rich history, built in 1782 as one of California's oldest structures. The lantern features a familiar silhouette with a tapered cage, subtle ornamentation, and a solid lid—a design that artfully plays rough against delicate.

El Presidio in Santa Barbara, California

Craftsmanship and Tradition: Much like the historic El Presidio, The Presidio Lantern is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional craftsmanship. Hand-forged in heavy gauge wrought iron, each lantern embodies the dedication to quality and attention to detail that defines Santa Barbara Lighting Company's creations. The lantern's design mirrors the juxtaposition found in the Presidio itself, seamlessly blending strength and elegance.

As you enlighten your space with The Presidio Lantern, you're not just adding a source of light but embracing a piece of Santa Barbara's vibrant history. The intricate design and traditional handmade techniques echo the spirit of El Presidio, creating a timeless connection between past and present. The Presidio Lantern stands not only as a beautifully crafted light fixture but as a symbol of the enduring legacy that continues to inspire and illuminate generations.

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Britt Jewett, Architect of Studio 7, Santa Barbara, California - Lead Lighting Designer of Santa Barbara Lighting Company

A PORTRAIT: BRITTON JEWETT

Britton Jewett is an architect in Santa Barbara and the Lead Designer for Santa Barbara Lighting Company.

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Dignity Moves Donation Lighting from Santa Barbara Lighting Company
12/2023

Giving Back to the Santa Barbara Community with Dignity Moves

At Santa Barbara Lighting Company, we believe that a little light can go a long way in making a difference. Recently, we had the privilege of teaming up with Dignity Moves, an incredible organizati...

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