663 Lilac Drive, Montecito CA
Exquisite Cape-Cod Style Estate
As if transported to Montecito’s Golden Quadrangle from Cape Cod or the Hamptons, this classic home, the centerpiece of an approximately 2.04-acre storybook Montecito estate, radiates the urbane ambiance of casual affluence. A place of both sophistication and nature, the welcoming residence and its enchanting grounds are at once comforting and cultured. Anyone who experiences the estate becomes immersed in a lifestyle of exceptional luxury, conveniently located near Montecito’s upper village, world-class beaches, and picturesque hiking trails.
The estate’s magical trees and flora guide one to the gated entry, then beyond to the motor court of the main residence, where a brick-paved and barrel-vaulted portico offers formal introduction with its stately columns and handsome door complemented by sidelights and a great fanlight window above. Stepping inside the beguiling home, one is greeted by a substantial foyer with a classic parquet floor and soaring ceiling. There, as it is throughout the home, the impression is one of spaciousness and light. Owners and guests enjoy abundant windows, French doors, high ceilings, and airy rooms where absolutely stunning views of ocean, islands, and the captivating grounds are plentiful.
COMMON AREAS
The striking foyer reveals an open, second-floor gallery overlooking the dramatic living room and its towering truss vaulted ceiling, wood paneling, and handsome fireplace; all bathed in the natural light provided by large windows and French doors. The room and adjacent formal dining room provide breathtaking ocean, island, and backyard vistas. The dining room -- its fireplace stately with black marble surround and mantel, and its French doors opening to a terrace -- stands ready to host the most formal repasts.
The capacious kitchen, beautifully designed for both aesthetics and practicality, and an adjacent den conjoin to form a splendid space for camaraderie. The kitchen is impressive. Its high-end stainless appliances, richly-stained custom wood cabinetry, and its expansive and versatile stone-topped center island create a fabulous culinary venue fit for the most discerning resident or visiting chef, or home cook. Meanwhile, the den is an intimate setting ideal for pre- and post-dining, with its built-in wall of custom entertainment cabinetry and abundance of windows.
Downstairs, a recreation room, opening to a pergola-covered terrace overlooking the grounds, provides endless possibilities: A yoga or art studio, perhaps, or a home gym, playroom, or meditation sanctuary.
BEDROOM SUITES
A pair of entry-level guest suites have en suite baths and open to a private patio. The home’s entire upper level, far from the madding crowd, is host to the splendid primary suite. The remarkable retreat features a handsome fireplace, beautiful hardwood floor, and a sitting area near French doors to a private balcony offering magnificent views of the estate grounds, and beyond to the ocean and islands. Two luxurious baths and large walk-in closets flank the bedroom. An appurtenant room would be perfect as an office, workout or meditation space.
THE GUEST HOUSE
Reminiscent of a charming Moody Sisters cottage, the very private and serene guest house is nestled among mature trees and basks in the dappled light they deliver daily. Nearby, rare plants provide visual delights, enjoyed from the cottage’s front porch. There is also a comfortable guest suite above the multi-car garage.
THE GROUNDS
The exquisite grounds of this singular estate are host to numerous amenities and a multitude of aesthetic delights. The palette is a sprawling emerald lawn embellished with flora and bordered by rare plantings. A pergola shelters a built-in barbecue grill and spacious food prep area near the freeform stone-bordered pool and spa, while another stands outside the downstairs recreation room. A white picket fence surrounds a vegetable and flower garden, and one of several walking paths leads to a charming treehouse.