Luxury Modernist Residence in Montecito, Crafted by a Trailblazing Architect, Up for Sale at $18 Million
In the heart of the exclusive Golden Quadrangle neighborhood, nestled among the Upper Village shopping area, lies a unique architectural gem – the Alice Erving House, a midcentury-modern residence designed by the pioneering female architect Lutah Maria Riggs. Known as a "glass tent," this property has been admired for its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living since its completion in 1950[1][3][4].
Lutah Maria Riggs, who established her own firm in 1931, was renowned for her Santa Barbara and Montecito homes. The Erving House, designed during her iconic modernist phase, is a testament to her innovative approach to architecture[1]. The house is complemented by landscape architecture by the legendary Thomas Church, a key figure in California modernist landscape design[1][4].
The residence sits on approximately 2.7 acres, offering expansive views of nature and mountains. The property's secluded grounds have been recently rejuvenated, preserving many elements of Thomas Church's original design[1][3][4]. They feature native plantings, lavender fields, fruit trees, vegetable gardens, a zig-zag bridge spanning a koi pond, a bocce court, and several spots for alfresco lounging and entertaining[2].
Characterized by a flat roof and a striking carport, the residence boasts a double-height entry foyer, a soaring triangular-shaped living space with expansive walls of glass, a formal dining area, a kitchen updated with custom Poggenpohl cabinetry and top-tier appliances, and a primary suite with dual dressing rooms and a spa-like bath[2]. The residence also includes a small office and a guesthouse, adding to a combined total of three bedrooms and four baths in roughly 3,000 square feet[2].
The property, which was sold for $6.25 million in spring 2011, is now on the market for under $18 million[3]. This rare example of midcentury modern architecture in Montecito is not just a historical landmark but an architectural gem, representing Lutah Maria Riggs' mastery of midcentury modern design and her emphasis on harmony between architecture and the environment[1][3][4].
Sources: [1] Curbed.com, "A Glass Tent in Montecito," 2018, https://www.curbed.com/2018/1/17/16903604/montecito-retreat-lutah-maria-riggs-glass-tent [2] Robb Report, "Iconic Midcentury Modern Home Hits the Market in Montecito," 2020, https://www.robbreport.com/homes/real-estate/iconic-midcentury-modern-home-hits-the-market-in-montecito-12346477/ [3] Architectural Digest, "A Midcentury Modern Masterpiece in Montecito," 2020, https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/midcentury-modern-masterpiece-montecito [4] Los Angeles Times, "A Montecito midcentury modern home designed by Lutah Maria Riggs," 2011, https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2011-apr-07-la-fi-la-house-montecito-20110407-story.html [5] Montecito Journal, "Lutah Maria Riggs: An Architectural Legacy," 2017, https://www.montecitojournal.com/lutah-maria-riggs-an-architectural-legacy/
This midcentury-modern gem, designed by Lutah Maria Riggs, is not only a historical landmark but an architectural masterpiece that showcases her innovative approach to design. Aside from being a testament to Riggs' portfolio, the Alice Erving House offers a unique lifestyle opportunity, with its home-and-garden elements beautifully integrated into the property, including fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and a bocce court. Moreover, investing in this real estate property could be a wise financial decision, given its prestigious location and significant historical value.
