Montecito

On a quiet lane, this sophisticated two-bedroom, two-bath contemporary California cottage sits on a .62 acre corner site in a coveted Montecito neighborhood, very convenient to the YMCA, Montecito Union School, and the shops, restaurants, and parks of the Upper Village.  This home is a design legacy, which architecturally fits the environment and embodies the Santa Barbara lifestyle.  

Created by Andy Neumann (then one of the principals of Seaside Union Architects), currently architect emeritus of Neumann, Mendro & Andrulaitis, whose passion for designing homes scaled to fit the needs and lives envisioned by each client, shaped this 2,817+/- square-foot home into a comfortable retreat.

The interior boasts two beautiful fireplaces with marble surrounds—one in the living room and the other in the spacious master suite.  As with the other spaces in the home, the living room contains the timeless magic of the “American Design Icon”, Tony Duquette and his longtime collaborator, Hutton Wilkinson.  They transformed rooms with techniques for infusing tasteful glamour derived from Mr. Duquette’s experience as an international artist, award winning set and costume designer, sculptor, furniture historian and jeweler.  The walls of the living room are softened by the skillful use of fabrics, colors and playful faux finished trim and the setting makes full use of the panoramic view of the sky, blooming jacaranda tree and agapanthus coming through enormous picture windows.

Adjacent is currently a multipurpose room for entertainment or perhaps easily transformed as dining, library or audio-visual media room.  The first glimpses of the lushly landscaped, supremely private backyard are from this room, with its beamed ceiling and soft natural light.

The stunning view of the dramatic pavilion designed by Mr. Duquette is revealed through substantial windows and French doors in the bright kitchen with its generous casual dining space.  Abundant natural light, raised ceiling, white cabinetry and deep matte green counter tops compliment the beautiful open-work panels and the patina of the cupola just steps away in the garden.  A full array of appliances and an island with a double sink in the open kitchen allow for the chef to chat with family or guests while cooking.  The flow for indoor/outdoor entertaining is enhanced by the wide open, sunny and serene yard, made private with a surround of mature trees and hedges.  Completing the kitchen area is an enclosed laundry room with storage and utility sink.

A luxurious master suite shares a view of the pavilion and patio, and as in other rooms, has high wood beamed ceilings and a lovely carpet.  With its pale terra cotta and softly grey-veined marble fireplace, peaceful sitting area, spacious spa-like bathroom, French doors, and view windows, the suite is a private retreat.  While soaking in the tub, the natural light and breathtaking views of sky and pavilion through the window are sure to energize the bather.  Ample storage can be found in the bathroom, large organized walk-in closet and a cedar-lined wardrobe closet.

Equally well-appointed is the guest bedroom and adjacent bathroom.  Through the bay window is a front garden view and a small private patio is very inviting for sunning and daydreaming.  Preceding the master suite is a cozy den or family room.

Two car garage is adjacent to a large open drive with parking available for numerous guests.  Sycamores and oleanders stand guard at the front and an easy-care terrace with olives, rosemary, ornamental sage and lavender lend color and fragrance leading up to the roses on the entry walkway.