Keepin’ it simple in Santa Barbara
John’s not the most complicated guy we’ve ever met, and that’s a good thing because neither are we. He’s a prime example of the type of people who live in Santa Barbara and work at HofArc. We don’t take for granted where we live, what we do, or a single day of life. We keep it simple.
HofArc has a crew who not only know how and what they do, they also know why they do it. It’s all about appreciating a good hard day of work, relaxing with family and friends, and enjoying the ride.
John says he has a rich perspective on life because he’s “surrounded by loved ones at home,” a bunch of “talented guys at work,” and “a good dog who prefers long walks.”
If you’re looking for an example of how to live a content simple life, look no further than John Avila.
HofArc: Can you tell us a bit about John?
John: I was born in Santa Barbara into a big family, with 10 children.
I started my family early… I have three grown children and bunch of grandchildren – 10 the last time I checked. My wife, Maxine, and I share a wonderful life together.
I was in business for quite a while doing custom Formica for a Santa Barbara company named Artisan Counters and Tops.
HofArc: Were you aware of what HofArc did before you applied for work?
John: I hadn’t heard of HofArc before I came here, but I own a 2008 Airstream Safari 25’ so I’m pretty familiar with them. We take ours camping fairly often, locally and to National Parks, such as Yosemite, Big Sur, and Monterey.
The Airstream is simply the best travel trailer available. The weight, balance and aerodynamics are ideal. It tows like a dream. There’s no need for an anti-sway bar on my tow hitch.
I like the Airstream’s curves inside and out. It’s a very comfortable feeling when you’re inside. I love sleeping in mine.
HofArc: What do you do for HofArc?
John: Whatever I’m told (ha-ha). I’m part of an excellent Carpentry team. I enjoy the work, but it’s a challenge. I love working with a bunch of very talented guys. It’s fun.
I’d say my favorite part is working with cabinetry and making it fit the contours of the trailer. Airstream walls are not square so each trailer’s interior has to be made custom. There no way an assembly line type production would even be possible with these trailers. It’s part of the challenge, and it’s rewarding because when it’s all done it’s beautiful.
I think there’s a good reason we name each trailer after a women because they’re beautiful inside and out. Everyone, from the design team to the craftsmen, put a lot of thought and passion into doing the very best they can. The whole team is quite talented in finding solutions to some very complex challenges.
There are times when the Airstream owner throws a wrinkle into the floor plan, so we have to be flexible. I like the fluid nature of design choices, it keeps us all on our toes. Our work is never boring.
HofArc: What’s it been like working for HofArc?
John: It’s a low-stress place. The environment is low-key, but everybody knows what to do and how to do it. But that’s not say we don’t learn something new every day. If we have a question we can always discuss it with each other or (the designer) Ivy, or the owners. There’s a lot of experience and technical knowledge in this place.
Being a small business, run by a family, the communication is very good. The only stress that exists comes from our own high expectations for quality. We are always motivating ourselves to build better and better projects.
HofArc: What do you do for fun and recreation?
John: Besides camping, I enjoy anything creative, such as gardening and painting pictures. My wife and I are artistically oriented. We have a studio set aside at home where we do a lot of painting and craft work.
We also just like being outdoors in Santa Barbara, walking the dog. My favorite walks are in the Mesa neighborhood. The real benefit of living in the Mesa is that we get the option of walking to the beach, it’s so close by.
There’s also the Douglas Family Preserve or Elings Park – both are great for a quick walk.
HofArc: What else do you enjoy about living in Santa Barbara?
John: I just love the weather. I also have a connection with the history here since I’ve spent most of my life here. Frankly, anywhere along the California coast is nice, but in Santa Barbara you’ve got the mountains and the ocean. Whether your on the beach looking up, or high in the mountains looking down, the vistas are just beautiful. The lifestyle is pretty mellow here, too. We don’t get the major weather challenges that people do across the country. You don’t have do too much here. Sometimes the best days are just hanging out and taking it all in.
HofArc: Any aspirations?
John: Not really. I’m not going to look very far into the future. I’ll just take it as it comes, thank you.