Montecito

The exterior façade as seen from the entrance gates presents the indelible, nonpareil stamp of George Washington Smith, a name synonymous with Spanish Santa Barbara architecture. Yet, this public vantage of Smith’s historic continuity, his romanticism and charm, does not begin to suggest the marvels that lay hidden behind the massive entrance door. In a brilliant interplay of angularity and arches, of grand rooms and informal balconies, of aesthetic ornamentation and structural integrity, this Montecito villa evokes an ultimate peacefulness and restfulness lightly spiced with a touch of exotic mystery. Each room possesses its own identity and magic, and the house is replete with antique and handcrafted tile, oak, marble, wrought iron, chandeliers, and beams imported from the continent; yet there is an overall unity and flow that carries out into the beautiful gardens, lawns and classic swimming pool and fountain. It should also be mentioned that in this instance “classic” does not translate as “old” – despite (or because of) its 1922 vintage and subsequent care and loving, this home is ready to move into, with shiny hardwood floors, a substantial kitchen with modern conveniences, a luxurious master suite – the best of the new has been gracefully integrated into what is surely a house of the ages.