Downtown

When one imagines the quintessential Santa Barbara home or pied-a-terre, it’s easy to envision a tranquil retreat providing modern comforts combined with a hint of the city’s rich history and a touch of Bohemian soul.

This idyllic abode would be kissed by ocean breezes and convenient to all of Santa Barbara’s world-class dining, shopping and beaches, as well as to its rich and diverse cultural and recreational activities.

There is such a place. It promises to become home, or home-away-from-home, to a very special owner. One with artistic sensibilities, an eclectic sense of style and dynamic joie de vivre. This remarkable property has been lovingly and tastefully renovated and embellished by a singular visionary couple who, along with their talented architect, have seamlessly blended the old and the new.

A jewel tucked away in one of Santa Barbara’s loveliest neighborhoods, where properties are rarely available in the marketplace, this unique gem is within an easy walk to the city’s beautiful harbor, beach, charming historic train station and all the amenities downtown has to offer, including the Farmer’s Market, movies, shopping and so much more.

Originally, this striking Craftsman cottage was likely the carriage house and carriage master’s quarters for the magnificent early 20th century Potter Hotel. Today, although the home’s delightful picket fence and handsome French garden have replaced the driveway that undoubtedly hosted stylish horse-drawn coaches, an enduring charm remains.

The welcoming garden’s flagstone path leads to a roomy portico providing a comfortable venue for reading a favorite book or visiting with friends. Just inside the home, the bright, inviting great room, with its endearing Country-style kitchen, offers a versatile expanse perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Its French doors open to a spacious dining and entertainment terrace.

Both the downstairs and upstairs bedroom suites -- featuring adaptable spaces, original niches, casement windows and built-in cabinetry -- allow a designer’s imagination to take magical flight.

Real magic exists nowhere more than in nature, however, and nature has blessed this one-of-a-kind Santa Barbara retreat with its own realm of enchantment. Here, a secluded walkway leads to the rear of the cottage where a spa awaits and overlooks an intimate, breathtaking section of Mission Creek. Reminiscent of a peaceful spot on the bank of a bayou, it’s like a private avian sanctuary, frequented by snowy white egrets, blue herons and other winged beauties.

Resting in the shade of spectacular mature bamboo, a majestic date palm and other indigenous flora, this unparalleled property is truly an oasis of “country in the city."