The Historic “La Huerta” Project
La Huerta has been a shared space at the Mission since the late 1700s. In recent years, its revitalization was postponed as we prioritized essential projects, including roof restoration and the completion of our ADA ramp.
Now, we are excited to refocus on its future. Old Mission Santa Barbara has partnered with Campbell & Campbell to reimagine La Huerta as a beautiful, multi-purpose space for children, students, and visitors alike. This renewed garden will invite deeper engagement with the Mission’s rich history and natural beauty.
Our vision for La Huerta is best captured by OMSB’s mission statement:
“We educate, preserve the past, enliven the human spirit, and build relationships.”
We have broken down the project into 5 different zones of interest. Explore the area options below and do not hesitate to call us with any questions or to schedule a tour of La Huerta. Email development@sboldmission.org or call (805) 682-4713 (ext. 222 or ext. 106).
ZONE 1
AREA 1
Estimated cost: $280,000
The Outdoor Classroom
Key features of the conceptual plan for La Huerta include gathering areas for education and meditation, or spiritual renewal. The Outdoor Classroom planned for the northeast terrace will be a central element as its renovations and enhancements will allow it to better serve as setting for public programs, especially for thousands of school children who tour the Mission every year as part of their school curriculum. In this Outdoor Classroom they will learn about native plants and how they were used before arrival of Europeans, the introduction of non-native plants and the impact on the ecosystems, and the how this knowledge can help us today as we explore the importance of biodiversity and caring for our common home.
Elements include extending and enhancing the existing paving across the East Terrace to improve both aesthetics and safe, equitable access. Select stonework and features will be thoughtfully removed or relocated to open and unify the space. Additional planting along the northeast edge will enrich the existing shrine while providing a natural screen from the parking lot. Additionally, electrical conduit and outlets would be added to support public programs and special events, as well as appropriate outdoor tables and chairs.
“The Gateway”
The Gateway in the new conceptual plan for La Huerta will allow for welcoming visitors into the space and set the stage for the unique experience ahead. Traveling along a path from the Mission parking lot bordered by the Stations of the Cross and olive grove on the left, visitors will enter through an ornamental gate on the right marking the southeast corner of La Huerta. Immediately greeting visitors on the right is a welcoming area which includes a large display with St. Francis’ Canticle of Creation and recognition for all who have contributed to bringing to fruition the new concept for La Huerta. Pathways ahead will allow for exploration with carefully choreographed experiences to subtly speak to the senses, spirit, and mind. Interpretive signs will help guide the visitor through the experience. Plantings along the perimeter will include drought adapted prickly pear, native Lemonade Berry and Coffee Berry, along with flowering vines.
AREA 2
Estimated Cost: $250,000
AREA 3
Estimated Cost: $500,000
The St. Francis Ramada
Drawing inspiration from shade structures of both the Old and New Worlds, blending native traditions with Mediterranean forms, the Ramada, in its central location, wraps around a courtyard. Paved in decomposed granite or compacted earth, this welcoming space supports a wide range of outdoor activities, including worship, festivals, celebrations, crafts, and daily work.
Constructed of fire-resistant metal and cable, the Ramada supports vines and solar lighting. Thornless Banksia roses, evoking Saint Francis, and Roger’s Red California grape provide seasonal beauty, fragrant blooms that attract beneficial insects in spring and summer, followed by grapes that nourish birds in late summer and fall. At the courtyard’s center, a shallow fountain offers water for birds and pollinators, while its solar-powered flow adds cooling humidity and a gentle, calming sound. Olive Bosques frame the view of the Ramada and central fountain.
The Island Oak Terrace
Another crown jewel of the new concept is the Island Oak Terrace along the northwest edge of La Huerta. An important element in the new concept includes creating a path from the lower garden to the upper Island Oak Terrace, providing equitable access. This phase of the project will require work by a civil engineer in collaboration with Campbell & Campbell to address the design of the path and to ensure long-term safety and stabilization of the fill mound which supports the terrace.
The plantings in this area will emphasize native plants, which were integral in the life of the Chumash people and still play an important cultural role. Already located on the Terrace are different varieties of sage, which our local Chumash neighbors still gather for ceremonial use, along with Juncus which grows directly below the Terrace. Additional elements planned for this area center around creating a place for contemplation and meditation. The beautiful, shaded landing around the Island Oak Terrace provides dramatic views of La Huerta. A variety of seating, including a curved stone bench, provide space for individuals and small groups to use. With this concept, members of the Chumash community can return to using this area for cultural revitalization programs, such as storytelling and language classes.
AREA 4
Estimated Cost: $500,000
AREA 5
Estimated Cost: $210,000
The Garden Niche
Aligned with the Island Oak Terrace to the northwest, the Garden Niche located along the southeast border, serves as a central focal point. Critically endangered Guadalupe Island Junipers are framed by a Pepper Tree to the northeast and a stately Valley Oak to the southwest, this area evokes the Mission’s shaded forecourt and the golden meadows beyond the coastal range. As the junipers mature, they gather close to shape a small garden room or Glorieta which offers a setting for a special feature or moment of reflection.
Get In Touch
If you're interested in working with us on the La Huerta Project, complete the form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
Feel free to also email development@sboldmission.org, or call (805) 682-4713 (ext. 222 or ext. 106).