Every project is special, but some are iconic. We recently completed a commercial restoration project on the corner of Chapala and Micheltorena in Downtown Santa Barbara. This was one of our coolest projects of 2024.
We had the opportunity to help restore a cherished piece of Santa Barbara history: Danica House. Originally built in 1969, it was one of 80 stores nationwide that sold Dutch furniture.
A Piece of 1969 Reimagined
The Danica House is now a commercial building that houses various offices and a pilates studio. What makes this building so captivating are its architectural details—most notably, its dramatic roof eaves. These eaves stretch 15 to 18 feet from the facade and are constructed of gorgeous Redwood planks interspersed with manufactured glulam beams. These features are as striking as they are essential to the building’s unique charm, but decades of exposure to the elements have taken their toll.
Our Multi-Step Restoration Process
Here’s how we brought the Danica House Eaves back to life:
- Pressure Washing: The first step involved a thorough cleaning to remove surface dirt and grime. This foundational step ensured a pristine surface for the work to follow.
- Cleaning and Brightening: Using a specialized Cabot product, we applied a cleaner and brightener to lift deeper layers of grime, mold, and mildew, reviving the wood’s surface.
- Bleach Additive Application: To bring back the eaves’ vibrant original tones, we treated the Redwood planks with a bleach additive. This brought out the natural reds and yellows, restoring their warm, eye-catching hues.
- Protective Varnish Coating: To ensure the eaves look stunning for years to come, we finished with two coats of high-quality clear exterior varnish. This protective layer shields the wood from the elements and extends its longevity.
A few pictures of the preparation process before applying the varnish.
Why This Project Matters
Not only did this project revive a historic building, but it also demonstrated the beauty that thoughtful craftsmanship can achieve. When you walk by the Danica House now, you’ll notice how the restored eaves radiate their original Redwood glow, complementing the building’s timeless design.
See It For Yourself!
If you find yourself in the area, take a moment to admire the Danica House at the corner of Chapala and Micheltorena. It’s a perfect example of how restoration can blend history, architecture, and modern techniques to create something truly extraordinary.
Want to learn more? Watch the video above where Justin, one of our owners, walks you through the entire project from start to finish. You’ll see firsthand the care and expertise that went into revitalizing this local treasure.
At Fresh Coat Painters, we’re more than just painters—we’re caretakers of your space, whether it’s a historic landmark or your family home.
Schedule a free onsite quote and let us help you bring your next painting project to life!
