Brainerd Jones, Architect, Bonnie Spindler, American Dream

Brainerd Jones was a self-taught architect, who over the course of his career designed 80% of Petaluma's historic properties. Bonnie Spindler takes a look at his legacy and the enormous body of work that exists in this historic town. Petaluma was incorporated in 1859, and because fires haven't touched it and the 1906 earthquake didn't level it, much of it looks the way it did at the turn of the century when Jones began developing his unique vocabulary. His work shifted with the tastes of the day but he created his own style. Brickwork, Union Jack windows, spider web windows, and columns that bulge to make then look straight from a distance, the large front porch and homespun built-ins to make life more comfortable were all part and parcel of his style.
The trick with all historic towns and infrastructure is keeping it that way. Historic districts, heritage groups, and respectful contractors come together to make vintage homes vibrant homes for today's families and businesses, without destroying what makes them unique and important.

[davidwhite]

This was a great video Bonnie! I remember walking past many of those buildings when I lived with Angela and Mike. Hope you're well!

[iblyn]

my grandparents had Brainard Jones design their house at 910 DStreet.iot was built for them in around 1923..built by H. Vogensen..After my grandfather passed.she sold it and bought another Brainard Jones house at 26 6th Street....