If you live in Southern California, you know that the idea of lots of sunshine and warm weather is not just a cliché reputation- it's a reality for many people living in the southland. These weather patterns have had an effect on architecture in the area for centuries, starting with the Pueblos of Spanish settlers before the existence of the United States.
The Missions of California were often built with real clay and features very slightly tapered roofs and a lot of rich tiling that adds depth and a desert feel. Though our cities today are lush with lawns and large trees, most areas in and around Los Angeles have historically been desert and chaparral- you're more likely to find a cactus or some shrubland in our area than a redwood. This gives a very distinctive feeling to our cities that is unique in the country.
So what does that mean for current residents? Lots of Pueblo style! Burnt Sienna, orange, and deep red clay roofing is a common appearance in Southern California houses, especially in the warm valleys and coastal communities. Spanish style roofing and warm paint tones should be accompanied by the appropriate garage door installation. You wouldn't want to invest in a gorgeous Tudor-style garage door when your house is rocking the surfer vibe, or pick out a cottage-style swing open garage door when your house clearly echoes a late afternoon in Cordoba, Spain. Warm tones and rich tiling are called for.
Choosing the appropriate garage door style is of course personal to each person, but Californians know that taking advantage of the sun with a sunny, Spanish look is a great strategy to looking fabulous and hip. Complement with some golden barrel cacti and huge aloe vera plants, and your home will blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings.