Unlike her endearing Disney-Pixar character Dory, Ellen DeGeneres should have no trouble finding her way home to one of her many SoCal properties. Together with her wife, Portia de Rossi, the comedienne and talk show host has bought and sold more real estate in the past few years than most. But, the duo’s latest $45 million listing could be their most mesmerizing venture yet.
Although neatly tucked within the rolling hills of Santa Barbara for supreme seclusion, DeGeneres’ 10,500-square-foot property emulates Tuscan countryside charm. The original architect, Wallace Frost, lived in Italy before building the home in the 1930s. Both the main house and expansive guest pavilion sit on 16.88 acres of land.
Aptly-named, “The Villa,” DeGeneres’ home is accessible via a quarter-mile driveway enclosed by elaborate Spanish gates. Upon entry, you’ll find mature olive and eucalyptus trees, relaxing fountains, an ivy-covered façade and lush gardens.
The rustic main house holds six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, nine fireplaces and several libraries. Despite its size and immense detail, each room flows effortlessly into the next with a cohesive, warm-modern aesthetic. Interior highlights include wide plank floors, quarried stone walls, marble countertops, ample natural light and exposed beams.
The backyard, complete with a romantic outdoor dining area, boasts both mountain and ocean views. Residents can relax on the elevated gravel overlook or the grass-clad yard, complete with a Roman column and matching pool.
A newly-built separate modern pavilion is the ultimate indoor-outdoor entertaining hub. The second structure has its own pool, tennis court, porch, courtyard, parlor, kitchen, bathroom, game room and more.
DeGeneres isn’t the only daytime television star to buy in Montecito. Oprah Winfrey invested in a 23-acre abode named Seamair Farm just last year. Jeff Bridges, Drew Barrymore and Rob Lowe are other familiar faces who’ve put down roots in the neighborhood.
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