The building at 409 State State st boasts ornate embellishments indicative of the Victorian and Eastlake architectural movements. Vastly different from the Spanish style widely seen throughout the city, the building stands out as a landmark all its own. Still holding strong in its original location, the building was erected in 1889 as Faith Mission. The proprietors offered religious services, meals, and lodging to young men seeking religious guidance and looking to get back in the good graces of society. At the time, the location was in the hub of the city’s commercial center. Surviving entirely through the devastating earthquake that rocked Santa Barbara in 1925, the once religiously focused space was transformed into the bustling Hotel Savoy in 1931.

During World War II, the hotel served as a underground brothel for servicemen seeking comfort and less than savory entertainment from its female staff. In recent years, the building has served as offices, various restaurants, a burlesque venue, nightclubs, and now its newest endeavor, is home to Backstage, a hub for entertainment, food, drinks , and nightlife . It is one of the few remaining 19th-century buildings still intact, representing its original façade and structure, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.