| OCR Text |
Show ~ .' section has a shed roof capped by a parapet which has red tiles on its upper edges. The south end of the building terminates in an arcade, whereas the north wing is set perpendicular to the major axis of the complex and has a facade of its own that faces north. Simplicity of form was not the architect's intention. While decorative features and the types of openings characteristic of the Mission Style have been used, no regular program has been implemented to create the essence of consistency and balance so characteristic of the Mission Style. Instead, features such as the impressive main entrance with its double doors, framing pilasters, brackets, heavy consoles, and its projecting round arch which tops the semi-circular transom, stand isolated. The same is true of highly decorative window opening on the square bay. It relates to no other element on the building except perhaps for the tiny curvilinear gable above it. That gable, unlike the more typical curvilinear gable, which is a continuation of the wall of which it is a part, is so small that it really bears no relationship to the wall. Because so many different types and sizes of window openings have been used, and because the groupings of windows are so irregularly clustered over the surface of the huilding, no regular pattern is created which would serve to unit its features and accentuate its simplicity. Several features are reminiscent of the Prairie Style such as the uneven division of stories of the central section, the use of groups of casement windows, and the arrangement of openings on the facade of the north wing. The Prairie Style influence, however, in no way dominates the composition, but may have been strong enough to interfere with the compre~ensive exceptance of the Mission Style as a design choice. This building is in excellent condition and is virtually unaltered. |
