Description
A crown jewel atop the American Riviera, Huskalow, or “Sunset Hill,” offers views and privacy in a rare 2.24+/-AC retreat. Designed in 1919 by renowned architect Reginald Davis Johnson in “The California Architecture” style, his signature fusion of English, Anglo Colonial, Craftsman, and Mediterranean elements, Huskalow is an estate of relaxed simplicity and grace. The home contains 5,721+/-SqFt of living space with 7BD, 4BA/2HBA yet “lives” inviting and warm. The historic residence and hilltop property are perfectly meshed, taking advantage of serene sweeping vistas of the Pacific including the Santa Barbara harbor and Channel Islands, then north to La Cumbre Peak and Santa Ynez Range. The garden includes specimen oaks and a reflecting pond originally designed by noted landscape designer Lockwood de Forrest Jr.; it has been enhanced by Pat Brodie Landscapes to include native California plants, a fruit orchard, roses and a succulent/cactus garden.
The residence embraces classic features beloved by Reginald Johnson, many of them reminiscent of hacienda or Spanish Revival styles: hand-hewn fir beamed ceiling, Saltillo tile, oak and fir flooring, arches and perfectly textured plaster walls. There are 5 fireplaces and graceful arches that feel Spanish. French doors open to a central courtyard with ocean views, the heart of outdoor living. The current owners call themselves “caretakers” of Huskalow and engaged Ferguson-Ettinger Architects to carefully supervise improvements to lighten and open the home, enhance the landscape and hardscape, all with integrity while preserving its special design elements.
Stone pillars and a sweeping drive opens to a formal sandstone driveway circle; a stone path winds to a Craftsman inspired brick and pillared porch. The formal entry, with its rustic small Saltillo tiles and graceful stairway leads to an adjacent library that has a cozy English feel with built-in bookcases, charming fireplace, and lovely views. The living room, grand in scale with massive hand-hewn fir beams projects an air of relaxed comfort with reading nooks, fireplace and French doors opening to the north veranda and mountain views.
The current owners, serious cooks, have created a chef’s working kitchen with walk in pantry, breakfast nook, menu desk opening to a once formal dining room, now filled with light and ocean views through picture window, plus warming fireplace. French doors flow onto the brick courtyard for festive holiday dinners, weddings, or quiet evenings around the outdoor fireplace…California style! French doors in the primary suite open to a private terrace with a perfect cameo of the yacht harbor and Stearn’s Wharf. 2BD in the primary wing are currently used as offices. Two separate wings offer 4BD/2BA with flexibility for family, guests, crafts, music. A spacious recreation room with its own fenced deck adjoins laundry center, oversized garage, ample storage; with abundant onsite parking.
Original sandstone pavers and rocks create paths to pleasing environments; delight is always around the corner. An artfully designed koi pond with cascading waterfall leads to a relaxing spa and sparkling pool, all with sweeping views of ocean, harbor, islands, and city. A romantic covered brick verandah stretches northside offering respite to enjoy mountain colors and visiting wildlife near the pond. The orchard, kitchen garden, and hen house gift bounty and joy!
The Upper Riviera, known for exceptional views and perfect climate, offers parks, open spaces, and secret paths for strolling/hiking, dining at the Belmond El Encanto Hotel, films at the Riviera Theatre, and beyond to vibrant restaurants and shops in downtown Santa Barbara. Or, simply embrace nature and solitude cherished by past stewards of Huskalow, “Sunset Hill”…the start of your own traditions, your own legacy.
