Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architect in Santa Barbara
Jeff Shelton Architect is a Santa Barbara-based architectural firm founded in 1994 by Jeff Shelton, a graduate of the University of Arizona's Architecture School. With over three decades of professional experience, including ten years in downtown Los Angeles and collaborations with Brenda Levin and Associates, the firm specializes in creating buildings that harmonize with their communities while pushing design boundaries. Our practice emphasizes collaboration with skilled artisans, builders, and clients to deliver unique commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects that reflect local character and cultural heritage.We prioritize contextual sensitivity, particularly within Santa Barbara's Spanish/Moorish architectural guidelines, while maintaining a commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. Our portfolio includes award-winning buildings, public spaces, and custom-designed interiors that celebrate life through thoughtful, community-enhancing architecture.
Services
Commercial Buildings
Mixed Use Buildings
Hotels & Restaurants
Multi-Family Residences
Single Family Residences
Public Spaces
Custom Tile Design
Lighting Fixtures
Furniture Design
Fabric Patterns
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of architectural experience in Santa Barbara and Los Angeles
- Specialized expertise in Spanish/Moorish contextual design guidelines
- Award-winning portfolio including 2024 North Street Book Prize winner
- Direct collaboration with master builders and artisans
- Proven track record with over 50 completed buildings
What people say
Creative designs
Collaborative approach
Award-winning work
Community enhancement
Artistic vision
Services
Architectural Services
We provide comprehensive architectural services for commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects. Our process begins with understanding client needs and site context, followed by concept development and detailed design. Specializing in Santa Barbara's Spanish/Moorish guidelines, we create buildings that balance innovation with local character while ensuring functional excellence.
Commercial Buildings
Designing distinctive commercial buildings that enhance urban environments. Our approach integrates brand identity with architectural form to create memorable spaces. We focus on optimizing functionality while maintaining aesthetic coherence with surrounding neighborhoods through custom detailing and material selection.
Mixed Use Buildings
Creating vibrant mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and public spaces. Our designs prioritize walkability and community interaction while addressing complex zoning requirements. Each project incorporates unique architectural elements that reflect local heritage through contemporary interpretations.
Hotels & Restaurants
Designing immersive hospitality environments that tell unique stories through architecture. We create memorable guest experiences by integrating custom tilework, lighting, and furnishings with spatial planning that balances aesthetics and operational efficiency for dining and lodging establishments.
Residential Projects
Crafting distinctive residential spaces that reflect homeowners' personalities while respecting neighborhood character. Our approach combines innovative spatial planning with artisanal detailing, creating homes that feel both timeless and contemporary through carefully curated materials and bespoke design elements.
People
Jeff Shelton
Architect & Designer
Graduate of University of Arizona's Architecture School with 30+ years experience. Worked on historic LA buildings before establishing Santa Barbara practice in 1994. Specializes in contextual design that balances innovation with tradition.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We focus on designs that respect Santa Barbara's Spanish/Moorish heritage while incorporating modern innovations. Our work balances traditional context with contemporary functionality through custom detailing.
Do you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, our experience includes projects like the Bradbury Building and Grand Central Market in LA. We preserve historic character while updating structures for modern use through sensitive restoration approaches.
How do you incorporate local culture into designs?
We create buildings that reflect community character through custom tilework, ironwork, and landscaping. Our designs often incorporate local materials and artisan collaborations to create place-specific architecture.
Can you handle complex zoning requirements?
Yes, we have extensive experience navigating Santa Barbara's design guidelines and complex urban sites. Our approach finds creative solutions that satisfy regulations while maintaining design integrity.
Do you offer interior design services?
Yes, we provide custom interior elements including tile patterns, lighting fixtures, and furniture. Our holistic approach ensures interior spaces maintain the same design language as exterior architecture.
