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1721 E Valley Road, Montecito, CA 93108
Enchanting French Farmhouse Estate in Montecito
Idyllic, tranquil, timeless, and instilling a comforting sense of place, this enchanting home, its guest house and gardens are nestled on approximately 2 magical acres embraced by a serene 40+-acre nature preserve and a significant estate. The structures, interiors, and gardens, designed by the acclaimed Penelope “Penny” Bianchi, make this one of the most beguiling properties in Montecito. It’s as if it were a French farmhouse or mas somehow transported from the most charming village in Provence. It’s no wonder that the property has been noted and featured in several design publications.
COMMON AREAS AWASH IN JOIE DE VIVRE
Swathed in lush vines, the main house and two-story guest house present their storybook façades from the motor court, while beckoning one to peek inside for a glimpse at the seductive welcoming ambiance within.
There are custom finishes throughout, including lime-washed walls, bespoke cabinetry, and hand-selected vintage and antique fixtures and hardware personally collected by Bianchi. In the spacious living-dining room, for example, beautiful fireplaces anchor opposite walls and feature stone surrounds, strong yet delicate marble mantelpieces, and dazzling sconces. Extraordinary mantel-to-ceiling antique Trumeau mirror and mural panels above each fireplace command their respective areas of the room. All is bathed in natural light provided by a wall-size paned window complementing a window seat and flanking French doors that open to the gardens. A high tray ceiling amplifies the ambient radiance.
The kitchen, a masterful mélange of sophisticated style and décor, is designed with the chef – whether homegrown or professional – in mind. An abundance of Shaker cabinetry and a vintage copper farm sink are complemented by high-end appliances including a professional-grade double range and range hood, and a large, hanging pot rack above the substantial center island. The kitchen affords effortless access to the gardens’ alfresco dining and entertainment areas.
Adjacent to the kitchen, an inviting loggia is essentially an open-air living room that celebrates Montecito’s coveted indoor-outdoor lifestyle and provides a comfortable year-round lounge for casual dining, conversation, reading, or quiet contemplation.
THE PLEASURES OF A SOLITARY RETREAT
Every primary bedroom should be more than just a room for sleeping at the end of a day. It should be a soothing sanctuary welcoming the home’s owner anytime, providing rest, relaxation, and a respite from familial duties and entertaining guests. The primary suite in this singular home is, indeed, a peaceful sanctuary. While the bed is in its own alcove, flanked by windows offering views of the gardens, and with a Gothic quatrefoil window at its head, across the room, a 17th century French marble mantelpiece frames the fireplace, and an intimate sitting alcove provides additional views of the gardens. The enticing ensuite bath hosts a 19th century Parisian copper tub, a shower ornamented with assorted 16th century French tiles, and dual sinks in custom cabinetry.
A GIFT FOR THE GUESTS
The guest house conveys magic as well with its vine-clad façade, French windows with rustic shutters, and French doors as entry. Inside, a fireplace with raised hearth and a roomy window seat beckon, and a soaring ceiling and large clerestory window join forces to shower the room and mezzanine-style loft with natural light. A well-appointed bedroom and kitchen complete the cottage and ensure the comfort of the most discerning guests.
NATURE AS BACKYARD
The spectacular grounds are capable of conjuring elation and joy in those who experience the rare approximately 2 acres of flora and fauna upon which the National Wildlife Federation bestowed the honor Certified Backyard Wildlife Habitat. Nature and nurture are hard at work in this mystical setting where walking paths, an allée, and a green tunnel – the Renaissance-era name for a path under a verdant arch of vines -- lead to sheltered sitting and dining spots, a wonderful unspoiled duck pond, and more.
Whether enjoyed as a year-round residence or piend-à-terre, this captivating estate-like property offers a multitude of delights. Secluded yet accessible, it is convenient to Montecito’s hiking trails, multiple dining establishments, distinctive shopping, and golf and tennis clubs.
