Ellen DeGeneres, television powerhouse and high-end house-flipper extraordinaire, and her wife, the actress Portia de Rossi, have put their 1930s Santa Barbara stone villa on the market for $45 million. Prominently featured in Ellen’s 2015 book Home, The Villa, as its known, was designed by architect Wallace Frost as a residence for himself after returning from living in Italy. Many years later, acclaimed interior designer John Saladino undertook an extensive five-year restoration of the property for his personal use. [Source: Curbed]
Featuring classical, Old World details reminiscent of 17th century Italian villas like a barrel-tiled roof, terracotta surfaces, and wide-plank hardwood floors, the 10,500-square-foot home includes six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, nine fireplaces, multiple libraries, and a guest annex. Not to mention expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, harbor, and mountains.
The couple first bought the home in 2013 for $26.5 million then acquired two adjacent properties to expand the estate to 16.88 acres. They made modernizing renovations and built an indoor-outdoor entertaining pavilion known as Jordan Hall, which features an infinity swimming pool, a sunken tennis court, and Japanese soaking tub, among other incredible amenities. [Source: Curbed]
With grounds landscaped with mature olive and eucalyptus trees, aromatic plantings, and colorful gardens, and additionally decorated with fountains, statuary, and sculptures, the Montecito retreat is one-of-a-kind. Don’t believe us? Just ask Ellen:
The surrounding gardens and olive trees are almost as wonderful as the interior. The house truly feels like it was built out of the landscape, rather than plopped on a plot. It feels ancient, like it’s been there forever. Like that hill was never without the house. This is a home that honors nature, and I love that.
Take a look below, then head on over to the listing for the full gallery.
