sunday drive: montana avenue

Montana avenue runs a relatively short distance, approximately thirty blocks from Ocean Avenue at the water's edge to Stanford Avenue in the college streets where it then turns north into Brentwood. Despite the short span, it goes through distinct phases. For the first six blocks it is high density residential, apartments and condos until Seventh Street.

At that point, Montana becomes trendy retail space- boutiques, shops, restaurants, and approximately four coffee shops per block. Throw in a few bars, a couple of liquor stores, my beloved Aero Theater, one Pinkberry (to keep Paris Hilton happy), a very out-of-place looking barber shop and a Chinese laundry and you have Santa Monica's most happening retail street, but only for ten blocks. After passing the awesome mid century Library at 17Th Street, it once again becomes a quiet residential street, albeit a pricey one.

The retailing dates back to the 1930's, with lots of 1940's and 1950's detailing as well. For your enjoyment, Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, Mid Century, and my usual eye for signage. Careful readers will notice that this sunday's drive took place on monday. I hate it when work interferes with architecture. Enjoy:









































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