An artistic sanctuary nestled in the tranquil hills of Montecito, in the award-winning Cold Springs school district, this remarkable five bedroom, four bath modern home is book-ended with two private, rentable, double-room ADUs and is on the market for the first time ever. Designed by ''Architect to the stars'' Bob Easton as a poetic testament to blurring the lines between interior space and nature, 520 Barker Pass Road awakens the creative imagination while remaining safe, practical, functional.
The layout flows like a river, surprising spaciousness and versatility around every bend. With direct outdoor access from every bedroom, the home's six patios create a harmonious flow between indoor comfort and the beauty of the mountains, flowering gardens and sky-blue swimming pool. Bob Easton's clients have included Barbra Streisand, Michael Douglas, Michael J. Fox, and Beach Boys legends Brian Wilson and Mike Love: the house is paradoxically an entertainer's dream AND a family and pet safe cozy home perfect for raising a large family (or hosting occasionally!) relatives or friends. All of the five bedrooms are thoughtfully crafted to balance elegance and comfort. Easton's architectural philosophy: how a home can serve the Earth, the community, and spirit, lives in every corner of this design, including the stone and stucco exterior, metal roof primed for solar panels, and the colors of the exterior perfectly match mountain, sky and flora.
Inside, Italian marble, white limestone, and travertine flooring complement bamboo the elements of nature, continue to support and nurture. The carpeted areas in two bedrooms are for comfort and coziness. A fireplace anchors the great room, while the formal dining room a built-in wet bar becomes a harbor for connection and celebration.
The adjacent library/music room/home office is a softly lit retreat with views of the Montecito landscape. The galley kitchen is both elegant and efficient, with a pass-through window encouraging conversation while preserving the cook's sanctuary from the lively great room and adjoining deck with phenomenal Mountain View. A walk-through pantry and nearby laundry area enhance the home's effortless functionality.
The home's co-designer and longtime owner, Louise "Closet Lady" Gerber, is a local artist and craftsperson who has built over 1,000 closets. She proudly claims this home has more drawers than any other on the market with 34 in the kitchen, 24 in the master bath, and ample storage throughout. Much of Louise's abstract art was used in the decorating and is for sale: touring this house is like visiting an art gallery!
Three centrally located bedrooms offer a secure, family-friendly layout while preserving privacy through a shared hallway and patio. The spacious primary suite includes two walk-in closets one previously used as a writing room/office. The bathroom features double sinks, a long mirror reflecting the greenery outside, and a separate shower/commode room. Two attached studios add privacy and flexibility. Integrated with the main house, balance intimacy and independence. The two-story east studio features a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and sitting area with separate entrances ideal for guests, extended family, or work-from-home needs. The west studio above the garage includes two rooms, a remodeled bath with river rock flooring, sliding barn door with built-in bookshelf, kitchen sink, counter, and large windows overlooking the Montecito landscape. A future tree-top deck could further expand the space.
The nearly one-acre property is lush and layered, filled with agave, succulents, flowering plants, and mature trees. Only half is developed, leaving ample room for a second home, greenhouse, chicken coop, orchard, or terraced garden. A fossil-tiled entryway makes a striking first impression, while five patios invite seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Every element from natural beauty to untapped potential supports a lifestyle of creativity, rooted in history and open to new possibilities. At the center of the grounds lies a sparkling organic-shaped pool, heated year-round by eco-conscious solar panels. A stone circular driveway and second drive lead to a two-car garage with parking for up to 14 vehicles, including RV or boat space. Recent upgrades include fresh interior paint, a new furnace, brand new water heater with one year free service contract and six year warranty, updated lighting and outlets enhancing comfort and move-in readiness.
The property is on a level street and close to downtown Santa Barbara, Coast Village Road, and Montecito's Upper Village, the home is also just minutes from Butterfly and East Beach. With nearby trails, shops, and top schools, 520 Barker Pass Road offers beauty, versatility, and inspiration in equal measure a canvas for inspired living where every corner holds the promise of serenity and discovery.
