Villa Calafia

Designed by celebrated architect Gordon Kaufmann, Villa Calafia is a rare nearly 16-acre legacy estate set within the coveted foothills between Montecito, California and Carpinteria, California. Originally conceived in 1930 and constructed between 1932 and 1934, this historic compound is recognized as one of Kaufmann’s notable residential works, showcasing timeless architecture inspired by the grand villas of Italy. Privately gated and surrounded by magnificent, protected oak trees and mature pines, the estate offers views of the Pacific Ocean, the coastline, and the distant Channel Islands, creating a spectacular natural setting that balances privacy, scale, and proximity to the best of the Santa Barbara coast.

The property unfolds as a true multi-residence compound featuring the historic main residence, three guest house total, including Japanese-inspired Serenity House, a two-story guest house and a private guest house above the garage, offering exceptional flexibility for multigenerational living, hosting guests, or creating a private retreat environment. Thoughtfully arranged across the expansive grounds are a motor court, eight garage spaces, and multiple outdoor terraces and patios designed for entertaining and enjoying the estate’s remarkable setting. Original architectural elements have been preserved throughout the residence, reflecting Kaufmann’s signature attention to craftsmanship, proportion, and Old-World design.

Villa Calafia’s grounds are equally compelling. Formal gardens, historic fountains, and statuary are set among mature landscaping, while trails wind throughout the property’s gently rolling acreage. An approximately one-acre orchard of avocado trees is complemented by Meyer lemon trees, enhancing the estate’s agricultural character. For recreation and lifestyle, the estate offers a barn with horse stables, riding arena, and multiple turnouts, making it well suited for equestrian use. An oversized tennis court, also suitable for pickleball, provides additional opportunities for sport and leisure.

Despite its extraordinary privacy and acreage, Villa Calafia is only minutes from the coast and Montecito’s celebrated lifestyle destinations, including Butterfly Beach, Rosewood Miramar Beach, and the boutiques and dining of Montecito’s Upper and Lower Village. The estate also benefits from two private wells and a Montecito water meter.

Villa Calafia represents a rare opportunity to own a historic coastal California estate of architectural significance, an exceptional compound where history, nature, and timeless design converge.