Ravenscroft

8 BEDS | 8 BEDROOMS | 11 BATHROOMS | 14 GUESTS

Montecito, CA

Located in the heart of Montecito, Ravenscroft is a George Washington Smith estate that balances heritage and contemporary elegance. Originally commissioned by Peggy Ravenscroft in 1922, the villa continues to evoke the spirit of its namesake. In the last century, Ravenscroft has had just three owners. As its current stewards, we have lovingly restored the home over 18 years, using original plans, authentic materials, and master craftspeople—including the grandson of the original ironworker. The result is a rare intersection of historic integrity and modern refinement, where the past lives beautifully in the present. Today, Ravenscroft pays homage to Peggy’s legacy—a sanctuary of enchantment and artistry that invites every guest to share in its unfolding story.

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Location & Neighborhood

A winding driveway reveals a landscape of manicured lawns, towering palms and rose gardens, revealing a stately Spanish façade draped in ivy and history. Celebrated for its theatrical proportions, enduring romance, and architectural pedigree, the 10,000 square foot home in Montecito stands as one of California’s most exceptional and soulful properties.. Ravenscroft also captured the heart of Academy Award–winner Diane Keaton, who featured named it one of her favorite homes— a place she ‘fell in love with’ for its architecture and astonishing beauty. Adjacent to Lotusland, the two-acre gated estate offers a rare balance of privacy and convenience: just moments from Butterfly and Hammonds beaches, the iconic Rosewood Miramar Hotel, the boutiques and restaurants of Coast Village Road, San Ysidro Ranch, and the Hot Springs Trailhead. Complementing Ravenscroft’s location are its suite of amenities: pool & spa, home theatre, full guest house, 3 guest cottages, wine cellar & tasting room, billiards room, and courts for bocce, pickle-ball and tennis.

 

THE GREAT ROOm

The heart of the estate is the 52-foot living room — a space as storied as it is striking. Modeled after a London stage production, the room was built large enough to accommodate Peggy's beloved horse, Jack, who would warm himself by the fire. Though reimagined with modern luxuries, the living room retains the dramatic flair of the 1920s and the grandeur of a vanished age. A palette of sand and caramel tones grounds the space, while sumptuous statement sofas, dual staircases, and the grand fireplace bring a sense of intimacy to its expansive scale. Every detail —from the mahogany finishes and the sculptured silhouettes to the romantic archways and oversized proportions —lend rich layers of depth and texture. This room, like much of the home, stands as a homage to its muse, Peggy — a place where memory, myth, and magic intertwine.

 
 

THE LoGGIA

Beyond a garden-lined foyer lies the loggia, sunlight spills through, casting soft light across marble floors and framing views of the pool. Cascading vines shroud the walls, weaving a tapestry of green, and wrought-iron doors open into the rose gardens, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. The loggia reveals three distinct moments: an intimate nook for reading, a spacious lounge centered around a fireplace and TV, and a dining area for candle-lit dinners and soirées. Each corner is steeped in a sense of the ethereal and dreamlike, as if lifted from the pages of a storybook.

Bedroom Configeration

Bright dining room with white walls, large window with black framing, white marble table, eight upholstered chairs, decorative pottery on pedestals, a large mirror, and unique wall sconces, with a chandelier hanging from a vaulted ceiling.
Outdoor patio with two white couches with beige pillows, a rectangular fire pit in the center, a brick wall with a tiled water feature, potted plants, and lush green trees surrounding the area.

dining

Thoughtfully appointed for both elegance and ease, the kitchen features a butler’s pantry, top-tier appliances, and a bespoke La Cornue stove. French doors open onto a courtyard, where a mosaic fountain, fire pit, and inviting seating inspire inspire starlit evenings, chef-prepared dinners, and fireside conversation. A cozy breakfast nook with a crackling fireplace, infuses the space with warmth and charm. The formal dining room, anchored by a Carrara marble table, flows effortlessly into another courtyard leading to the Billiard’s room and and guest cottages. Tucked discreetly behind a bookshelf, a hidden wine cellar awaits, ensuring every meal is paired with the perfect vintage.

A La Carte services

Private pottery class

Spend a creative afternoon with a local ceramicist, learning the art of the pottery on a wheel.

in-house massages

Our massage therapist brings 25 years of experience working with touring musicians, A-list clientele, and luxury wellness destinations.

Private yoga class

Reconnect and recharge with a customized yoga session led by a private instructor at the estate.

bespoke wine tastings

Experience a private tasting at home hosted by a local vintner, or venture into the countryside to discover the region’s celebrated wineries.

Private chefs

Savor restaurant-caliber dining with our hand-selected private chefs, available for multi-course tasting menus or personalized meals.

private Excursions

Escape to Santa Ynez for an afternoon of wine tasting and picturesque countryside, or spend the day at sea on a charter to the Channel Islands.