Having been made into an ingratiating and convenient 21st-Century home, the residence known as El Fureidis was one of the founding estates in the exclusive enclave of Montecito. Here, in 1880, J. Waldron Gillespie, the scion of a wealthy New York banking family, began an architectural and horticultural revolution. The Gillespie gardens, with their European-influenced terraces and reflecting pools, inspired many later California estates to break away from the concept of landscaping then prevalent in the eastern United States. In 1901, Gillespie hired one of the most important architects of the day, Bertram Goodhue, and took him on a yearlong trip to study the buildings and gardens of the Mediterranean. Inspired, they returned and began to build Santa Barbara’s first Mediterranean villa and to landscape what became one of the most spectacular gardens in the United States.

A splendid architectural achievement, the residence has received a major renovation from the ground up. The design concept maintains the integrity of the original architecture while updating and embellishing the estate’s functionality. Highlights include state-of-the-art mechanicals; innovative marble, granite, and tile designs; custom light fixtures, cabinetry, and hardware; and elegant window treatments. Intricate floor patterns highlight the entryway, the conversation room, and all bathrooms. New doors were designed to match the existing antique brass doors; many cabinets and walls also feature special finishes.

With its gold-leafed central dome, the conversation room is a focal point. A warm, refined library with French doors overlooks the east and south gardens. French doors in the living roomto the center patio and the south gardens. A wet bar and a state-of-the-art audio-visual center add to the living room’s allure. A dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling, a musician’s balcony, oak floors, and French doors to a terrace and the north gardens accentuate the dining room. Walls of windows bathe the breakfast room in light. The kitchen is a gourmet’s dream, with granite counters, an island, and top-of-the-line appliances. The master suite is a study in luxury, with French doorsng to the south terrace and gardens, an antique fireplace, a wet bar, and two luxurious baths. The four guest bedrooms all have French doors and custom tile or granite floors.

With views stretching to the Pacific, the property encompasses more than 10 expansive acres. It includes a large swimming pool, children’s playground, complete caretaker’s cottage, and garage. A romantic creek runs along the southern boundary. Price upon request. Inquiries to Jeff Hyland.

For more information, contact:
Hilton & Hyland Real Estate
250 North Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, California 90210

www.hiltonhyland.com