1946 E Valley Road, Montecito CA
WORLD-CLASS DON NULTY MEDITERRANEAN ESTATE
Classically Mediterranean, beautifully executed, impeccably maintained, and supremely welcoming, this gated and private Montecito home, a hidden gem close by the community’s exclusive golf and tennis clubs, is an homage to understated luxury. Thoughtfully designed by noted architect Don Nulty, AIA, the residence presents a perfect environment for formal or casual entertaining, working from home, or simply quiet contemplation.
Beginning the moment one enters the imposing gates shaded by a stately oak, and on to the gracious courtyard encircling a lovely fountain reminiscent of the Mediterranean countryside, one feels the embrace of a peaceful ambiance of calm abiding.
Inside, there are limestone, hardwood, and terra cotta floors, and handsome walnut custom cabinetry enriches most rooms. Fireplaces feature imported Italian mantelpieces. In keeping with the favored local indoor-outdoor lifestyle, there are French doors and plentiful windows throughout, with many providing tranquil views of the mountains and grounds.
This is a singular residence offering numerous exceptional amenities, such as a stunning 3-level walnut and wrought iron circular staircase, and a spacious gym with a full bath and French doors opening to the pool and spa. There is much more to be found and experienced here, including a private studio over a three-car garage.
COMMON AREAS
Double arched wood, glass, and iron filigree entry doors open to a central hallway: a convenient gallery-style corridor serving living room, dining room, culinary center, family room, and a bedroom wing.
Directly across from the entryway, the inviting sunken living room hosts a woodburning fireplace with antique Italian surround and flanking large French windows. Pocket doors part to reveal a built-in bar, while French doors open to the covered terrace.
From the living room, a substantial double archway introduces the formal dining room, its French doors revealing a delightful pergola-covered terrace awaiting alfresco repasts.
The richly accessorized kitchen -- with its multiple high-end appliances and accouterments; multi-purpose center island; butler’s pantry; and doors to the living, dining, and family rooms, hallway, and a Dutch door to the terrace -– is a home or catering chef’s dream come true. Nearby, breakfast-family room invites casual camaraderie with its open-beam vaulted ceiling, fireplace, and outdoor access.
On the lower level, a climate-controlled wine room displays its collection to the adjacent tasting room through a dramatically arched wall of glass.
BEDROOM SUITES
The beautiful bedroom suites gracing this wonderful home all have baths en suite and walnut or terra cotta floors. Most have built-in custom cabinetry, while two have kitchenettes and dedicated entries. There are three guest suites on the main level and one on the lower level. The upper level is reserved for the primary suite and study: the owner’s ocean and island view sanctuary. Its bedroom features a fireplace, two balconies accessed via French doors, dual walk-in closets, and a pair of luxurious baths. French doors also open to a private loggia from the bedroom, and from the study, which hosts a wall of gorgeous custom built-in cabinetry.
THE GROUNDS
From the impressive motor court, to the luxuriant backyard, the approximately one acre of lush landscaping and exterior amenities is a fitting complement to the warm, welcoming Mediterranean-style home. Passing through French doors from interior spaces, one is instantly transported into Santa Barbara’s enchanting ocean breezes. There are multi-level flagstone-paved terraces, including one with a lovely fireplace and built-in radiant heaters, another shaded by the charming pergola, and yet another surrounding the sparkling pool and in-pool spa. A large terrace, perfect for entertaining, overlooks the manicured lawn complemented by a family of majestic oaks shading a spacious seating area. Exquisite landscape lighting enhances the enchantment.
