Shubin + Donaldson - Montecito Residence

The customer for the Montecito Residence is a retired couple with a substantial art collection. Designed by California based architects Shubin + Donaldson, it is built in upscale community of Montecito, California, adjacent to Santa Barbara, on a site that features beautiful mountain and ocean views.

The program called for a new, three-bedroom residence built from the ground up that would accommodate art collection in a restrained and economical yet modern building.

This newly constructed residence is one of few contemporary designs in the area. The architecture is distinctly organized with one main axis or spine that runs along the whole structure. The center of the building features the public areas with a shed roof over a long gallery for art. The open plan emphasizes space usage and contemporary living.

A sculptural glass-and-steel fireplace separates the living area from the dining room. The far north-end block serves as the master bedroom and bath. The two-bedroom guest quarters are at the opposing end, and adjacent to a three-car garage. An exposed rafter system brings stability to the metal roof, while the walls of the house are plaster and glass.

Art collection includes paintings, prints, and sculpture by: Alex Katz, Sam Francis, Hans Hofmann, Henry Moore, Harry Bertoia, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro, E.L. Kirchner, Charles Arnoldi, Sean Scully, Tom Lieber, Tom Holland, Lee Gutch, Suzanne Caporael, as well as select Asian antiques and vast collection of old toy soldiers (35 years of collecting).

Furniture designed by Mies van der Rohe, Le Corbusier, Massimo Vignelli, Eero Saarinen, Florence Knoll, Arne Jacobsen, Warren Platner, Joseph D’Urso, Antonia Citterio, Paolo Piva, Pepe Cortes, Diego Giacometti; bought from Knoll, B&B Italia, Brown Jordan, Lumiaire, and Danskina.

Appliances and hardware from Sub-Zero, Thermador, Viking, Décor, Miele, GE, Kroin.

A special Thanks to Julie D. Taylor and Taylor & Company for their efforts in providing us the contents of this article.

© All material displayed in the Article, photos and content, are coutesy of Shubin + Danaldson Architects. No reproduction is allowed without their prior consent. Infringement to this copyright could be subject to procecution.

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