“California Romantica” (published in 2007) is not a traditional architecture book but a passionate, visual love letter to a specific architectural style. Authored by the acclaimed actress, director, and avid preservationist Diane Keaton, the book explores the Spanish Colonial Revival movement, with a particular focus on its glorious manifestation in California during the 1920s and 1930s.
The book is a collaboration with photographer Lisa Hardaway and writer D.J. Waldie, and it serves as both a historical record and a personal plea for the preservation of these iconic homes and buildings.
This is far from a dry, academic text. Keaton’s voice is present throughout. She writes from the perspective of a dedicated collector and restorer of these homes herself. Her personal passion for the style’s craftsmanship, history, and atmospheric quality is the driving force behind the book. She sees these houses not as sterile museums, but as living, breathing spaces full of soul.
“California Romantica” is more than just a book about architecture; it is a mood, an argument, and a personal obsession captured in print. It successfully conveys why the Spanish Colonial Revival style continues to captivate, and it serves as a powerful, visually stunning reminder of the importance of preserving the unique architectural soul of a place. It is a must-have for fans of Diane Keaton, design enthusiasts, historic preservationists, and anyone who dreams of a sun-drenched, romantic California.
