With funding from local philanthropist David Gray, the Cabrillo Pavilion was constructed in 1926.  Originally designed by Roland F. Sauter and E. Keith Lockard, it was designated a City Structure of Merit on July 24, 1991.  Managed by Parks and Recreation for the City of Santa Barbara, this popular gathering place has been in continuous use for over 90 years providing facilities to support beach activities and ocean swimming as well as offering a variety of spaces to rent throughout the facility.  A comprehensive renovation was completed in the spring of 2020.

Following the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties guidelines, exterior building improvements include removal of non-historic building alterations, protection and stabilization of historic elements, repairs to the building façade, site improvements, and reconstruction of the covered walkway.  The center portion of the upper-level terrace was enclosed in the 1940’s and over the years became an important contributor towards rental income.  A new enclosure was reconstructed utilizing materials, forms, and proportions compatible with the original structure.

The renovation included sensitive upgrading of building systems to improve human comfort and meet current building codes in performance, health, and accessibility standards – all integrated with minimal visual impact.  An interior elevator was added to connect the two floors while staying within the building envelope.  The interior layout was reorganized improving function and increasing available income rental space.  Original details were restored and used as design inspiration for new elements.

The project achieved a LEED silver rating.