Jeff Shelton is a renowned architect based in Santa Barbara, California, known for his unique and bold architectural designs that blend elements of whimsy and playfulness that set him apart from the rest of the architects in town. On top of his incredible and unique designs, he also is a Santa Barbara High School class of 1976 alumni.

Shelton grew up surrounded by art, jazz, ironwork, screenwriting; each member of the Shelton family has a specialty art form they’ve honed. Love and respect for creativity and art has saturated each home Shelton has resided in, fostering the growth of his creative endeavors from a young age. During Shelton’s senior year at the School of Architecture at the University of Arizona he built a giant pencil after having a lifelong fascination with the pencil. This was then hung from the ceiling of the “Centrum” at the School of Architecture, preceding his long career creating eccentric and unique projects.

Living in Santa Barbara, Shelton’s work is unavoidable. Whether you’re strolling down Garden Street, biking under the Lower State Bridge, or stopping for lunch at the late Casa Blanca, his work is bound to jump out at you. Like something from a storybook, the spiraled metal details will grab your attention, pull you through the colorful tiled doorways and around a delightfully bright and rich space that will surely make you swoon.

Shelton’s architecture is a testament to the power of imagination and the transformative impact of good design. His work is a celebration of color, form, and narrative, challenging traditional architectural norms while pushing boundaries and inspiring both peers and the public to let their creativity run wild. “If it’s a trend or standard, get away from it.” “Ultimately you gotta go after what you want to do.” Shelton said.

Photo: El Jardin taken by Chloe Ciccati