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CELEBRATED ARCHITECT BRITT JEWETT AND STUDIO 7

December 4, 2023

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In the picturesque coastal haven of Santa Barbara, where the architecture seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of the surroundings, Architect Britt Jewett stands out as a luminary figure. As the creative force behind Studio 7, he has etched his mark on the cityscape, bringing a unique blend of historic appreciation and contemporary vision to each project.


Architect Britt Jewett at work in his office.
Image credit: Kim Reiersion

About Architect Britt Jewett AIA

Britt Jewett's journey into the world of architecture is deeply rooted in his own familial inspiration. His father, an amusement park architect, imparted not only technical skills but a profound appreciation for the emotive power of physical spaces. "I was aware that I possessed an artistic gift," Jewett reflected in a recent interview. "It has been the principal lens through which I see myself and the world. As an architect, I approach my profession as an artist first."

After completing his formal education at Ohio State, Jewett made his way to California, where he honed his craft alongside notable figures in the field. A pivotal experience came during his time with Charles Moore and later collaborating with Barry Berkus, where he delved into projects ranging from residential interiors to urban planning. These formative experiences refined his understanding of architectural space and set the stage for his impactful career.

The outside of a Britt Jewett-designed farmhouse-style guest house, with its stone patio and upscale patio furniture in the foreground. The sun is casting golden rays through a tree's leaves

To enhance his skills and adopt a more flexible approach, Jewett established Studio 7, a collaborative design studio breaking away from the constraints of a traditional office structure. According to Jewett, this studio allows him to work on various projects, including remodels, new residences, specialty structures, architectural interiors, furniture, and lighting.

Jewett draws from both historic and contemporary sources in the arts and popular culture in his work. He also points to the significance of collaboration in his design process, connecting him with a wide range of artists and design professionals to inform and deepen his own range of expertise. He also finds inspiration in public sculpture and installation art, citing the work of Richard Serra as particularly influential.

The bright and airy living room of a Britt Jewett-designed guest house, with a high vaulted ceiling, clerestory windows, and a row of windows overlooking the grounds.


Santa Barbara Masterpieces

Jewett designed the exquisite guest residence for my Magical Toro Canyon Estate listing. This exceptionally private guest house is elegantly elevated above a three-car garage, optimizing breathtaking ocean views, islands, and mountains. Its exterior exudes a modern farmhouse charm with board and batten siding. Stepping inside, one immediately experiences the ambiance of expansive openness and luminosity, achieved through white walls and vaulted ceilings accentuated by an abundance of mullioned and clerestory Riviera Bronze windows and doors.

The interior features a well-appointed galley kitchen, a cozy bedroom, and a tastefully designed bathroom, completing this inviting and stylish living space.

Interior hallway of the Spanish Colonial revival style Santa Barbara County Courthouse, with expansive archways, vintage light fixtures, and polished Saltillo tile floor
Archinia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons


One of Jewett's most notable contributions to the Santa Barbara architectural landscape is the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Hall of Records in which he oversaw meticulous restoration. The building, a masterpiece of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, was initially envisioned by the renowned architect William Mooser III and finalized in 1929. Acclaimed architect Charles Willard Moore hailed it as the "grandest Spanish Colonial Revival structure ever built," underscoring its significance as the quintessential representation of Santa Barbara's embrace of Spanish Colonial aesthetics in civic design. Due to its architectural importance, the complex earned the prestigious designation of a National Historic Landmark in 2005.

Beyond the realm of traditional architecture, Jewett ventured into the world of set design and installations for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. This creative outlet showcased his versatility and commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

Expansive stone terrace covered by a pergola with the glow of the home's interior lighting emanating through windows.
Image credit: Joe Bryant, @joebryantco

Santa Barbara Lighting Company

In addition to his role as a distinguished architect, Britt Jewett’s role as the Lead Designer for the Santa Barbara Lighting Company offers him another outlet for his creativity. There, Jewett spearheads a team dedicated to merging the artistry of handcrafted light fixtures with an unwavering commitment to preserving the legacy of American manufacturing. The Santa Barbara Lighting Company operates under the philosophy that a well-designed and meticulously crafted light fixture possesses the transformative power to transcend mere aesthetics and become a timeless complement to any structure. The well crafted pieces span a spectrum of styles, from the classic Spanish Colonial and Gothic Revival to the modern American Craftsman and Minimalist, showcasing a commitment to diversity and innovation in lighting design.

A Beacon of Artistic Integrity

In a profession where creativity and pragmatism must coexist, Britt Jewett stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and innovative design in the heart of Santa Barbara. His ability to seamlessly blend tradition with modernity, coupled with a collaborative spirit, ensures that Studio 7 remains at the forefront of architectural innovation, shaping our city's skyline with each inspired project.


I’d be happy to arrange a private tour for qualified buyers of my Magical Toro Canyon Estate with the Britt Jewett designed guesthouse, or any of the listings found on my comprehensive website. Meantime, if you’re considering moving within any of our upscale communities, please give me a call at (805) 886-9378 or email me at Cristal@montecito-estate.com.

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