There's no doubt that San Jose boasts a wide range of architectural influences that's as diverse as our community.

We previously highlighted the history and characteristics of Victorian homes, so now we're taking a look at a style that is almost quintessentially San Jose — Spanish Revival.

📐 Where did it come from?

In 1915, San Diego hosted the Panama-California Exposition to celebrate the opening of the Panama Canal. For the first time in the history of US expositions, a design theme was chosen: Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture.

A few years later in 1917, local San Jose architect Frank Wolfe partnered with Santa Clara architect William Ernest Higgins and they quickly became early adopters of the style — building close to 500 homes within 14 years.

Explore further: “Wolfe & Higgins: Master Architects of the Spanish Revival" by Krista Van Laan

🔎 Spot that style

The Spanish Revival style can also be considered Spanish Eclectic, Spanish Colonial Revival, or Mediterranean Revival. The names derive from the baroque architectural influences of Mexico + Spain.

Key giveaways: Red tile roofs, arched doors + windows, flat stucco walls, decorative wall surfaces, recessed windows and doors, front and/or interior patios, decorative balcony and porch railings, buttressed corners, and twisted pillars.

The Spanish Revival-style building built in the 1930s still stands the test of time. | Photo via Eugene Zelenko

Aside from homes, other examples of this architectural style can be found at the San Jose Women's Club, designed by Frank Wolfe's son + built in 1929, and the San Jose Civic Center, built in 1934.

🏡 Love it? Live it

If you like what you're hearing, check out some Spanish-style homes on the market today.

1920 Rose Garden Spanish Revival | $1,750,000 | 3BD, 2BA | Large sunroom + backyard
1930 Palm Haven Spanish Revival | $1,998,888 | 4BD, 2.5BA | Renovated bathrooms + stainless steel appliances
1936 Shasta-Hanchett Park Spanish Revival | $2,350,000 | 4BD, 3BA | Large backyard + detached garage