56 DIGS.NET
|
12.9.2016
A R C H I T E C T | D E S I G N | B U I L D
The grounds, designed by illustrious landscape architect
Lockwood de Forest, are a further testament to enduring style.
De Forest was tasked with making the relatively small area
appear larger, which he accomplished with an unapologetically
eye-catching reflecting pond in front of the home and a series
of stepped terraces to create a cohesive separation between the
house, with the largest garden in front, and the reflecting pool.
This also allowed for an outdoor living room space in the terrace
closest to the home, a popular California concept.
Constantia has been home to multiple noteworthy owners
since Meeker. Renowned architect Jack Warner adored the
home from afar for years before purchasing it in 1974. Warner
designed the interior of the home himself, beginning with
all-white walls and unadorned windows to open up the space—
a technique still seen in the home today. Stewart and Katherine
Abercrombie were the home's next inhabitants. Taking a
similar "do-it-yourself " approach to the design, they added
their own touches, such as hanging silk from the dining room
walls and undertaking carpentry projects as a labor of love.
While the Abercrombies called Constantia home, it was
known to play host to some of Montecito's swankiest soirées.
In 2006, yet another owner purchased the home and began
a thorough renovation, which included updates to its interior,
exterior paint and landscaping, as well as the building of an all-
new media room and gourmet kitchen. Far from taking away
from the property's history, these developments fit seamlessly
with the home's spirit, modernizing it while maintaining its
original charm.
Currently owned by the author of Legally Blonde, Amanda
Brown, and her husband, Justin Chang, the home continues to
attract noteworthy residents. And why not? With an enduring
sureness of its own style and an enviable location, the home's
storied Santa Barbara past provides a canvas that anyone would
want to leave their mark on.
