It looks like Jeff Bridges has sold his spectacular Montecito estate. The actor accepted an offer of just under $16 million for the Mediterranean-inspired retreat. Bridges had initially listed the property in 2015, with a whopping $29.5 million asking price, but had slashed the price to $18.5 million by last December.
Constructed in 1988, the home was designed by Barry Berkus, an architect well known for two distinguishing design characteristics: a strong sense of social responsibility, and seeking to transplant the historical architectural sensibilities of the Italian Riviera into late 20th century Southern California consciousness.
If this example of Berkus’ vision is grandiose, it is quietly so; it’s a considerable statement, yes, but effected with such unassuming charm and conviction that it really can’t be faulted. A beautiful amalgam of natural stone, raw wood, stucco, and Saltillo, its sense of easy fluidity and romantic surprise would beguile the most blasé heart. At exactly the moment that it seems to become a little formal, a little rigid, it tosses in a rustic flourish, or opens onto a lovely view from a set of French doors or windows.
The property exterior is thoroughly escapist, with a very effective lagoon-style pool, nearly twenty acres of landscaped grounds, and terraces and patios all participating in the spell.
Bridges’ film roles as pre-redemptive musicians, in ‘Crazy Heart’ and ‘The Fabulous Baker Boys’, may be his most effective; the actor’s professional musical career includes several film soundtracks, and a spot as the figurehead of a working country-rock band, The Abiders. He took home an Oscar for his role in ‘Crazy Heart’.
