The Santa Monica Architectural Review Board was established in 1974 to preserve the city’s natural beauty, cultural character, and reputation for spaciousness and quality. The Board reviews building and landscape projects for design compatibility, quality, and harmony with their surroundings.
The Architectural Review Board evaluates projects for design integrity, material choices, color, sustainability, and how well they fit the context and unique character of each district. Its core mission is to ensure that new or altered buildings, structures, signs, and other developments are in good taste and good design, contributing positively to Santa Monica’s appearance rather than degrading the health, safety, or general welfare of the community.
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SANTA MONICA ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD Chairperson: Therese Kelly |
Through the Architectural Review Board Approval process, the Board:
- Establishes procedures and regulations to preserve areas of natural beauty and cultural importance
- Assures that development contributes to Santa Monica’s reputation as a place of beauty and quality
- Prevents development with unacceptable exterior design or depreciating effects on the environment or surrounding area
- Eliminates conditions, structures, signs, or uses that degrade community health, safety, or welfare
- Provides ongoing programs and means to improve the city’s overall appearance [notes]
The Architectural Review Board consists of seven members, including at least two licensed professional architects. Other members are selected for their ability to analyze architectural and environmental trends and to represent expertise in conservation, recreation, design, landscaping, the arts, urban planning, cultural‑historical preservation, and ecological/environmental sciences. Members serve four-year terms.
The Board welcomes public comment on projects. Residents who cannot attend meetings in person may submit comments by email beforehand; these become part of the official review.
SEE ALSO:
Santa Monica City Council
Santa Monica Recreation and Parks Commission
Santa Monica Planning Commission