Dr. John Willis Baer House
Nestled within Montecito's enchanting Hedgerow neighborhood is a Spanish-style haven brimming with history and charm. Known as the Dr. John Willis Baer House, it was designed in the 1920s by Wallace Neff, the highly acclaimed California architect.
- Location
Montecito, California
After being purchased in 2021, the new owners with a profound respect for its original design, yearned to make it uniquely their own. To accomplish this, they enlisted the expertise of architect Peter Vincent Architects from Honolulu, Hawaii, and interior designer Bridgid Williams Interior Design from Colorado, known for their successful collaborations with the owner. The shared vision was to instill a cohesive atmosphere throughout the house, characterized by natural, neutral furnishings while preserving the home's distinctive character.
The focal point of the main level is the family room, which somehow manages to exude an intimate and inviting ambiance despite the grandeur of the cathedral ceilings. The kitchen underwent a transformation, where a significant structural beam was removed, and an arch was introduced to separate the kitchen and dining areas, resulting in a more traditional Spanish aesthetic and a greater sense of unity. An expansive island and additional cabinet space were integrated, and the entry powder room was artfully restored to a more original design. The addition of new French doors to the sunroom and thoughtfully designed built-ins in the loft area further enhance the living space.
On the second level, the primary bedroom and bathroom were thoughtfully reconfigured to create a more spacious and open environment. A new entryway was introduced to provide a seamless transition into the primary suite, and an extra bedroom was reimagined into a guest bathroom that seamlessly complements the original design.
After
Before
A significant emphasis was placed on preserving the exterior, aiming to retain the timeless allure of the design. Enhancements to the front included replacing a circular arrival configuration with a new, singular gate entry to create a more welcoming sense of arrival. A new fountain positioned in the driveway adds an element of order to the front yard.
