Casa Mare

Hope Ranch, Santa Barbara

6 bed / 5 bath
Year Built: 1971

           Casa Mare was our most ambitious project to date — a transformative 3.5-acre estate in Hope Ranch that became a true labor of vision, creativity, and perseverance.

When we first purchased the original 1970s home, it was completely gutted and carried a heaviness that made it feel forgotten and neglected. We saw the opportunity to create something extraordinary. Our approach was to bring a refined Mediterranean sensibility to the estate while balancing it with a sense of modern restraint and understated warmth.

Throughout the home, custom white oak cabinetry, oversized handcrafted beams, and richly layered textures created an atmosphere that felt both European and deeply organic — blending old-world influence with a quiet wabi-sabi sensibility. Every space was designed to feel soulful, warm, and intentionally imperfect in the most beautiful way.

The grounds presented one of the greatest challenges of the entire project due to the sheer scale of the property. We completely reimagined the exterior, adding a pool, outdoor kitchen, and sports court, while thoughtfully transforming the original horse stables into a guest house. Olive trees, an expansive motor court, and thousands of carefully selected plantings brought life and softness back to the estate, ultimately turning Casa Maré into a luxurious retreat that feels both grounded and timeless.