The southwestern area of Santa Fe is the largest area of the city today and it’s still growing. The classic family-oriented areas of Santa Fe’s immediate west side feature an eclectic mix of commercial development and mid-priced adobe homes. Churches and schools contribute to the welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. The small, charming Barrio la Caada community offers homes somewhat larger in size, often with special decorative touches, mature trees, and landscaping. The cozier homes of Casa Alegre, developed by Allen Stamm in the 1950s, enjoy proximity to shopping, schools, churches, and the delightful Frenchy’s Field Park. The Kaune neighborhood features Stamm-style homes with hardwood floors and vigas, but also a broader collection of architectural styles, including California, Spanish Pueblo, and Territorial. Tierra Contenta is a mixed-use, mixed-income community, backed by a 501(c)(3) corporation, designed to provide low and moderately-priced housing for the city’s underserved families. Just south of the city, amid scenic Southwestern beauty and bordering preserved open space, Rancho Viejo is a unique collection of villages, each with its own central plaza, and easily accessible community amenities. Nava Ade is an inviting planned neighborhood near numerous schools and Santa Fe Community College. It combines appealing architecture with easy access to town and transportation. The southwestern area also includes the Santa Fe Place Mall and the Genoveva Chavez Community Center, a newer public fitness facility featuring leisure and lap swimming pools and an ice-skating rink.
