It was a royal affair as Santa Barbara’s finest gathered at Solana, one of Montecito’s original Hilltop Baron estates, to raise a glass as the monumental property comes to market.
Spanning more than 11 knoll-top acres with 360-degree views that encompass the entire Montecito Valley past Santa Barbara’s waterfront and south to the Channel Islands, Solana stands as one of Santa Barbara’s most pedigreed properties. Originally built in 1914, the 22,000-square-foot estate was the site of a prominent American think tank from 1958 to 1978 and counts John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr. among its esteemed guests.
Represented by Stefan Pommepuy, Santiago Arana and Mauricio Umansky, the century-old estate recently underwent a three-year restoration spearheaded by architect Don Nulty and interior designer Joan Behnke, preserving Solana’s historical integrity while infusing the property with the refined details and world-class amenities of a modern-day masterpiece.
The twilight soirée served as a perfect homage to Solana itself, blending the property’s enduring, Old Hollywood appeal with a lively, modern spirit. Two Roll Royces, courtesy of O’Gara Rolls Royce Westlake, looked right at home parked in Solana’s grand, palm tree-lined motor court as guests made their arrivals, reveling in breathtaking ocean views.
Guests enjoyed bites by Pure Joy Catering and wine and spirits courtesy of REVEL Spirits, Chalk Hill, VieVité Cotes de Provence and VDKA 6100 while exploring Solana’s lush grounds, which include an elaborate swimming pool, turtle pond, and one of the finest botanical gardens in the Santa Barbara area, with over 200 fruit trees and 500 rose bushes. As the night came to an end, guests parted with boxes of custom Compartes chocolates.
“There is no other property in Southern California quite like Solana,” says Stefan. “From its magnificent views to its opulent finishes and world-class gardens, Solana represents the perfect marriage of modern sophistication and old-world glamour. It was an honor to host friends, family and esteemed guests for a perfect summer evening at this incredible estate.”
