Ellen DeGeneres has always had a penchant for revitalizing historic estates rather than embarking on new construction. Her history is rife with instances of transforming and renovating numerous homes, and her prowess in this realm has now been fine-tuned to an art form. An exceptional example of her proficiency can be witnessed in the stunning Montecito estate she and Portia de Rossi acquired in June. In just four months, the couple, alongside their adept team, has executed a comprehensive overhaul of the 8-acre property, poised to return it to the market.
This expertise, however, does not come without a substantial price tag. The estate is now listed at .5 million, which significantly exceeds the original purchase price of $22.5 million by DeGeneres and de Rossi. The grandeur and historical significance of this estate position it among the most magnificent in all of Montecito.
The estate, known as Pompeiian Court and constructed in 1919, remains concealed behind a colossal iron gate and a quarter-mile-long driveway culminating in a circular motorcourt adorned with olive trees. The listing characterizes it as a “classic Roman courtyard residence.” The main structure of the palatial estate underwent a comprehensive renovation around the year 2000, only to be subsequently transformed by DeGeneres into a minimalist and serene retreat, aligning with the prevailing trend of understated luxury.
Diverging from the norm of many historic mansions in Montecito, Pompeiian Court is a singular single-story manor. All its rooms open onto a central courtyard embellished with Roman columns and accompanied by an outdoor fireplace. In addition to the primary residence, the sprawling 8-acre grounds accommodate four auxiliary structures: two guesthouses, a cabana by the pool, and a petite art studio.
The meticulously maintained grounds encompass formal hedgerows and lawns, alongside flourishing Italian cypresses, ancient oaks, and eucalyptus trees. The swimming pool and full-sized tennis court are discreetly positioned away from the primary residence, preserving its privacy. Several grand fountains and scenic walking paths adorn the estate. To add to its charm, there’s even a chardonnay vineyard on the property.
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have undoubtedly worked their magic once again, breathing new life into a historic estate, and in the process, elevating it to a level of sophistication and grandeur that befits the opulent Montecito enclave. Their innate ability to transform and reimagine properties has left an indelible mark on this exquisite estate, making it a coveted piece of real estate artistry.
