About This Property
A rare midcentury modern architectural offering in the heart of
Montecito, The Erving House, described as a "glass tent" by Time
magazine in 1951,is a singular expression of architectural and
landscape mastery, gracefully nestled on 2.7 acres of private,
artfully curated grounds. Designed in 1950 by renowned architect
Lutah Maria Riggs during her iconic modernist phase, and
complemented by the legendary California landscape architect Thomas
Church, this estate exemplifies the essence of indoor-outdoor
living.Enter through private gates, where a meandering driveway
weaves beneath a canopy of majestic oaks, setting a serene,
cinematic approach to the residence. It culminates in a spacious
motor court, where the home's striking flat-roof carport seamlessly
marries form and function with timeless elegance.A covered walkway
leads to the home's entrance, where a dramatic double-height foyer
with floor-to-ceiling glass walls flood the space with natural
light and frame expansive views of the surrounding landscape and
mountains. This breathtaking entrance sets the tone for a home in
constant dialogue with nature.The main living space unfolds with a
soaring pitched ceiling, its apex seemingly reaching toward
Montecito Peak, and a sculptural, biomorphic Santa Barbara stone
fireplace, a subtle homage to Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer,
Riggs' contemporary and collaborator. Walls of glass, both fixed
and sliding, span the length of the room, opening to terraces and
gardens and dissolving the boundaries between inside and out.The
primary suite is a private retreat, featuring a spa-like bath, dual
large dressing rooms, and tranquil views of the gardens and the
coastal range. The home office offers inspiring solitude, framed by
vistas of mature landscape and mountain ridgelines.The
European-style kitchen is outfitted with custom Poggenpohl
cabinetry and top-tier appliances, crafted with the serious chef in
mind. The adjoining formal dining area also enjoys views of both
the northern mountains and the home's terraced gardens and native
flora beyond.Adjacent to the main house is a detached studio,
providing flexible use, as a guest bedroom, creative workspace, or
private retreat, its large windows revealing the natural beauty of
mature oaks. Across the property is a serene 1-bedroom, 1-bath
creekside guest house offering peaceful accommodations far enough
from the main home to feel entirely its own.The grounds, once
altered by previous owners,have been thoughtfully revived by
landscape architect Susan Van Atta, who honored much of Church's
original vision while adding her own artistry through native
plantings. Wander through fruit orchards, lavender fields, and
raised vegetable gardens, or enjoy a game at the bocce ball court,
each element curated for both beauty, sustainability, and
enjoyment.The Erving House is more than a residence, it is a living
piece of architectural history and one of Montecito's most
important homes. It offers unparalleled privacy, serenity, and a
lifestyle that celebrates the seamless interplay between nature and
design. Additional features include a high- functioning well with
RO system for landscaping and a full power backup generator.
Phone: 425-283-2930
Address: 335 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017