1913 Carriage House with stunning craftsmanship & character. Design a floor plan to suit your lifestyle within approximately 9,000 potential square feet in this unique and extraordinary estate, which offers a main residence, a 2338 sq. ft. 16 car garage, a private well, and a 1043 sq.ft. guest cottage, all on 1.65 acres with majestic mountain views & 3 gated entrances, in the heart of Montecito.
Constructed in 1913 as the Carriage House to the main home of the Thaw Estate, by renowned architect Stanford White, this home exemplifies the impressive quality of construction and materials of that era, built to stand the test of time. This architectural treasure is constructed of full-cut heart Redwood, which would be nearly impossible to replicate now, and also of Hard Maple, Douglas Fir, and Oak, imparting a natural warmth and solid character from a moment in history when craftsmanship was prized and no expense was spared.
One of the most important features of this estate is a private well, a rare asset in these times, the importance of which cannot be overstated. The well offers an abundance of fresh water which services the house and grounds, while the connection to the Montecito Water District is in place as another option if desired.
One of the most spectacular and unique features of this home is the 16 car garage, which is truly a car enthusiast's dream. Incredibly spacious, with approximately 2338 sq. ft., it features a shop, a mechanic's bay, and a bathroom. It offers plenty of room for housing the ultimate car collection, or for transformation into a home theater, studio, or game room! It also offers the potential of a south-facing rooftop deck, located on the roof of the garage, which is accessed from inside the home and also offers approximately 2338 sq.ft. of additional entertaining space with dramatic treetop views.
Another captivating feature of this home, under the roofline of the main house, is the original hay loft, with approximately 1045 sq. ft. of potential to be incorporated into a master suite, a play room, or exercize room! With many windows facing east and north, diffused with morning sun and mountain views, as well as skylights, it offers a huge amount of additional square footage, should one decide to incorporate it into the main living area of the home.
The guest cottage on this property features approximately 1043 square feet of single level living space, including a generous living room with a fireplace and views of the lovely grounds and mountains. Recently updated, guests will enjoy a spacious kitchen, a full bath, and a comfortable bedroom with sliders leading to an attached deck surrounded by trees, offering shade and privacy.
Crossing the storybook bridge and meandering down the tree-lined lane leading to this estate, one feels as if they have stepped back in time to a more gracious, peaceful era. Completely fenced, there are two electric gates, along with a third gate for ease of access. Two circular driveways add to the luxurious ambiance of the grounds. The orientation of the house on the lot takes advantage of the mountain views and allows for total privacy in a peaceful, park-like setting, with large deck areas and expansive lawns for outdoor entertaining. Of special botanic interest is the rare specimen Buya-Bunya tree, providing a stunning canopy over the southwest deck off the kitchen.
Situated on a private lane within the exclusive Glen Oaks Estates community of Montecito, this estate is located just moments to the restaurants and shops of Montecito's Upper Village, and also falls within the coveted Montecito Union School District. Its proximity to the mountains allows for quiet and privacy, while still being a short distance to the Lower Village, with easy freeway and coastal access.
Bring your own vision to customize this home, built with impressive quality and character, ready to reflect a design which suits your lifestyle. The excellent location of this estate, with the multitude of indoor/outdoor possibilities in which to enjoy the serene and park-like setting, offers the perfect place to bring your dreams to light in this architectural treasure.