A Toast to California Design: Celebrating “New View” in Santa Barbara
Last Thursday evening, Habitat Home & Garden hosted a private gathering to mark the release of New View — A Curated Visual Gallery: Twenty Magnificent Homes by California Architects. The event brought together members of the design community, including featured architects Josh Blumer and Clay Aurell of AB design studio, and Michael Holliday of DMHA Architecture + Design.

[Image credit: Architects featured in New View: A Curated Visual Gallery - 20 Magnificent Homes by California Architects with Beth Buckley of Benton Buckley Books]
Guests were invited to explore the book’s celebration of California architecture and engage in meaningful conversations about the creative process behind some of the state’s most distinctive homes. The showroom provided a fitting backdrop for the evening’s discussions, with guests reflecting on the diverse range of projects featured in the book.
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[Image caption: Clay Aurell. Principal Architect of AB design studio, inc. signing the book; Josh Blumer, Principal Architect of AB design studio, inc., Clay Aurell in conversation with a Guest]
From coastal residences to urban retreats, each home in New View represents a unique interpretation of place and purpose. Through compelling photography and editorial insight, the book offers a deeper understanding of how architecture can shape both environment and experience, highlighting the philosophies and design approaches of twenty leading California architects.

[Image caption: New View: A Curated Visual Gallery - 20 Magnificent Home by California Architects; displayed at the event]
As the evening concluded, attendees departed with reserved copies of the book and a renewed appreciation for the role of architecture in defining California’s cultural landscape. The event emphasized the importance of thoughtful design and community, while also encouraging sustainable practices through ride-sharing and public transportation. New View stands as a testament to the enduring impact of California architecture—its innovation, its beauty, and its ability to inspire.
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[Image credit: Josh Blumer, Principal Architect of AB design studio, inc.in conversation with Guests. Image of the Guests enjoying drinks & conversations at Habitat Home & Garden]





