On The Market: Santa Barbara, California

11/01/2004

Often called the American Riviera, Santa Barbara has long been a top-tier resort thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate. An added bonus for residents is the town’s uniform architecture style–an elegant Spanish Colonial style that consists of red tile roofs, arched doorways, thick adobe walls and fountain courtyards. (Click image to enlarge)

While the 1925 earthquake demolished most of the earlier Victorian-style homes, Santa Barbara’s Spanish Colonial architecture continues to thrive because of an ordinance that encourages Mediterranean design. The community leaders behind the ordinance gave away free architectural plans to make it easier to comply.

This rustic hacienda, built in 1954 by local architect Judson Morgan, remains true to the city’s architectural heritage. Updates include the addition of French hardware and meticulous landscaping. “The current owner added spectacular hand-carved doors that were custom made and shipped from France, as well as a lot of beautiful French light fixtures,” says real estate broker Harry Kolb. The home’s summer kitchen, four bedrooms and large family room radiate outward from a central atrium, which is highlighted with a koi pond.

The estate’s 13.5 acres, perched 1,000 feet above Santa Barbara, are dotted with olive, oak, cypress, redwood and palm trees. A pool, guesthouse, horse barn and art studio with a workshop are also part of the property.

MARKET INQUIRIES
$6.95 million. Harry Kolb, Sotheby’s International Realty, 805.565.8633, www.sothebysrealty.com