Inside a Neoclassical Ocean-View Estate

August 11, 2025

Perched amid vibrant flora in the hills of Montecito, this residence combines classical elegance with contemporary flair, creating a perfect modern perch for basking in views of mountains, islands, and ocean.

In the latter half of the 19th century, Italian settlers arrived in the area known today as Montecito and swiftly ensconced themselves amid the rugged rolling hills, canyons, oak groves, and seaside flora that echoed the beloved landscapes of their homeland. They then set about establishing farms and gardens similar to those they had left behind, and in the ensuing century, a Mediterranean-influenced style came to pervade much of Montecito’s architectural landscape.

Montecito, California | Don Johnston, Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – 1290 Coast Village Road Brokerage, Gregg Lynn, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

That fondness for the Italianate persists at this masterful residence, whose Neoclassical elegance is set amid nearly six acres of thriving native trees, grasses, and flowering plants that bring to mind a Tuscan hillside or the Mediterranean coast. The 9,711-square-foot interiors present a unique combination of classical sophistication and contemporary flair. Stately stone, abundant ornate ironwork, regal columns, marble inlays, soaring ceilings, and herringbone-patterned parquetry conjure a sense of Old World glamour, and even superior-caliber 21st-century amenities—among them a covetable Lacanche kitchen range—feature finishes that further a vintage ambience. Meanwhile, polished and lacquered surfaces, mixed textures, bold hues, and creative light fixtures add tony modern touches, gallery walls throughout are ideal for art of all periods and genres, and the residence is replete with contemporary comforts and conveniences.

In addition to majestic entertaining spaces—namely an open-plan living and dining room—the home features a traditionally detailed library or study with built-in shelves and a fireplace; a dazzling wet bar; that spacious, well-appointed cook’s kitchen; and an upper-level sitting area opening to a private iron-railed balcony gazing out at the sea. Chief among the private quarters is a primary suite located on the main level, which includes two boutique-like walk-in closets and a pair of lavish baths. The three luxurious guest suites are secluded on the upper levels, and each features a unique palette and design motif.

Expanses of south-facing glass doors admit glorious natural light; afford breathtaking vistas of ocean, islands, and mountains; and open to an impressive array of alfresco living and entertaining spaces—including a sitting area with a fire table and a dining area with an outsize historically inspired fireplace. Designed for appreciation of the vast, sweeping view, these alluring spots also accompany an enviable infinity-edge swimming pool with a tiled floor in an eye-catching checkerboard motif. Stairs and pathways meander through the grounds as they cascade toward the sea.

The gated property is part of an exclusive enclave of only three homes, which share a private well system and create an intimate hillside community—perhaps not that dissimilar from the Old World villages that inspired the ever-enchanting environs of Montecito.