Founded in 1983, the Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara is a public non-profit charitable corporation. With the goal of enhancing our community's awareness and appreciation of architecture and the built environment, the Architectural Foundation offers and supports a diverse array of programs serving both North and South Santa Barbara County. These activities provide educational opportunities for the public and involve participation and support from local design and building professionals. Through its ongoing programs and resources the Foundation seeks to promote quality in design, construction, and preservation and to foster an understanding of excellence in the urban environment. To this end, the interested public, as well as design professionals, developers, contractors, and business groups are invited to become involved in and support the Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara.

In 1990, through the gift of a generous donor, the historic Acheson House became the headquarters of the Architectural Foundation. This distinguished example of Victorian Italianate residential design was originally built in 1904. Centrally located in downtown Santa Barbara, the Acheson House is the focus for the Foundation's many activities. The donation of the Acheson House to the Architectural Foundation to promote public involvement in the architectural profession is the first gift of this kind and magnitude to any architectural foundation in the United States.

The Gallery is devoted to exhibiting high quality artwork that explores the relationship between architecture and fine art. Six exhibits are displayed each year, with each show up for two months. An opening reception is held the second Friday of each new show.

For over sixteen years the Foundation's successful Kids Draw Architecture programs have provided children in Santa Barbara with the opportunity to appreciate and sketch examples of prominent local architecture.

Through two annual scholarship programs, the Foundation helps local students further their education in architecture, landscape architecture, and other disciplines of the built environment. The Foundation actively pursues scholarship funding and assists both North and South County participants.

Small group walking tours of Santa Barbara provide a unique and personal way for adults to experience the history and architecture of Santa Barbara.

The Built Environment Education Program, a statewide program widely known as B.E.E.P., is an extended studio-type experience in design and problem solving for elementary level students in Santa Barbara County Schools.

The Architectural Foundation welcomes new members. To join, download and return the membership card. The Foundation encourages its membership to be active participants in all of its programs. Interested members may coordinate with the Executive Director for volunteer placement. Meet Our 2007 Board of Directors and read our latest newsletter.