By Lookout Staff

May 24, 2012 -- It is arguably one of the most beautiful structures in Santa Monica, and the public can have a rare chance to visit Irving Gill's Horatio West Court during a tour of local landmarks Sunday, June 3.

Irving Gill's Horatio West Court (Photo by Brian Thomas Jones)

Sponsored by the Santa Monica Conservancy, the tour will feature some of Santa Monica's most historic homes, including Gill's 1919 hybrid of Mission Revival and Modern Movement styles, which was the first building in the city to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

"This tour and reception will show how landmarks -- like all buildings -- evolve and change to meet the needs of successive owners," Conservancy officials said.

"Each home is a case study showing how sensitive stewardship of historic properties can be balanced with the desire to upgrade, improve, and in some cases add to living space."
 
In addition to showcasing the care and maintenance of Gill's early example of attached houses, the tour also will feature the adaptive reuse of an 1875 historic church as a residence and the renovation and expansion of a Craftsman airplane bungalow.

Other stops on the tour -- which will take place between noon and 5 p.m. -- will be a Craftsman home showcasing the owners' special collections and the expansion of a beautiful Craftsman home on Palisades Avenue.

Following the tour, there will be a fundraising reception between 5 and 7 p.m. to support the Conservancy’s educational programs at the Zimmers House on La Mesa Drive, a John Byers adobe landmark that has been skillfully restored and expanded for a family with young children.

"This award-winning project exemplifies the art of creating new life for a historic landmark," conservancy officials said.

Advance purchase of tickets is highly recommended, although a limited supply of tickets may be available on the day of the tour.

   Tour:                              $45/$35 for SM Conservancy Members
   Reception:                      $150/$125 for SM Conservancy Members
   Tour and reception:        $175/$150 for SM Conservancy Members

Purchase tickets online or mail a check by May 28 to PO Box 653, Santa Monica, CA 90406 with number and type of tickets, and your email and phone.

Special offer: Join, upgrade or renew membership at the $1000 Patron Level and receive two complimentary Tour and Reception tickets. See below for your current membership status and membership links.

Day of Tour Details: Tickets and tour maps will be provided at check-in, from 11:45 AM - 3:00 PM at either the school parking lot at 2525 Fifth Street or 514 Palisades Avenue.   Guests drive or bicycle themselves to each home. Docent-guided tours will be ongoing from noon to 5 PM, rain or shine.

Privately owned homes may not meet ADA requirements. For more information call at 310-496-3146.