An Elegant European-Inspired Manor House in Montecito Hits the Market for $17.9 Million

With Europe housing some of the world’s most opulent private homes, laced with Baroque to Victorian features, it only makes sense that some of the most elegant residences in the U.S. are inspired by the continent’s classic designs. That includes one French country-style estate in California’s Montecito that is listed for $17.9 million with Eric Haskell, Natasha Sizlo, and Amanda Lee of The Agency. Set on nearly 1.5 acres, the gated home factors in a heaping of Old-World charm. 

Built in 1991, the single-family home stands in excellent condition with six bedrooms and eight bathrooms spread across 8,119 square feet. The Valley Road residence with park-like grounds was last listed for sale in 2018 at $4.95 million, and it sold for $4.75 million a year later, records show.

The driveway passes through wrought-iron gates and winds up to the three-story mansion’s expansive stone facade. Its arched entryway and windows speak to French country influences, in addition to its steeply pitched slate roofing. Checkered stone flooring in the foyer with a double-height ceiling also mirrors the style’s design codes, alongside its wrought-iron staircase and balconies featured throughout. 

The step-down great room has one of the home’s five fireplaces and French doors that open out to the backyard’s ample stone terrace with alfresco dining and lounge areas. The formal dining room comfortably seats 10, while a family room with a wet bar and room for a pool table sits further in with pale hardwood floors and walls dressed in navy blue. 

Reclaimed, hand-hewn beams from a 300-year-old European barn loom above the chef’s kitchen with modern appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a breakfast nook. A small fireplace makes chilly winter mornings warm and cozy.

The main-floor homeowner’s suite is a serene retreat with light steel blue walls and a spa-like bathroom with a marble steam shower. A primary-like alternative for family and friends sits on the upper level with a fireplace, a private balcony, and a stunning bath with a circular soaking tub, tiled walls, and brass hardware. Built-ins span the other bedrooms, including a third-story studio apartment with a renovated kitchen and bathroom. Skylights and large angled windows flood the space with natural light. 

Similar to classic European estates, this U.S. residence is surrounded by a lush landscape that includes mature specimen and fruit trees and great sweeps of manicured lawns. Stone pathways throughout the property lead to basketball and bocce courts. There isn’t a pool, but approved permits for the home allow you to tack one on, and a cabana if you like, too.