Extraordinary Midcentury Modern ‘Glass Tent’ With Fascinating Architectural Pedigree Hits the Market in Montecito for $18 Million

An incredibly rare architectural masterpiece that “exemplifies the essence of indoor-outdoor living” has been put on the market in Montecito for the very impressive price of $18 million.

Nestled in the heart of the celebrity-loved enclave—home to the likes of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Oprah Winfrey, Katy Perry, and Jennifer Aniston—the property was built in 1951, when it was described by Time magazine as being akin to a “glass tent” thanks to its unique shape and dazzling glass walls.

Since then, the three-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home has changed hands just two times, first in 1986, when it was sold for $525,000, then in 2011, when it was purchased by the current owners for $6.25 million.

Now, the midcentury modern abode is ready for its next chapter—one that will add to its already fascinating story, which began with famed architect Lutah Maria Riggs, who designed the original home more than 70 years ago.

The home was designed to celebrate its stunning natural surroundings, which were carefully curated by renowned landscape architect Thomas Church and highlighted through the property’s expanse of windows.

“Designed in 1950 by renowned architect Lutah Maria Riggs during her iconic modernist phase, and complemented by the legendary California landscape architect Thomas Church, this estate exemplifies the essence of indoor-outdoor living,” the listing notes.

“Walls of glass, both fixed and sliding, span the length of the room, opening to terraces and gardens and dissolving the boundaries between inside and out.”

Today, the home is known as the Erving House in honor of its first owner and resident, Alice Erving, and it appears to the naked eye almost identical to when it was built, retaining the indoor-outdoor aesthetic that Riggs prized.

However, it has since undergone several updates to modernize the home as well as its picturesque grounds, which have been “thoughtfully revived” with the help of landscape architect Susan Van Atta after they were overhauled by former owners who moved away from Church’s original vision.

“Wander through fruit orchards, lavender fields, and raised vegetable gardens, or enjoy a game at the bocce ball court, each element curated for beauty, sustainability, and enjoyment,” the listing notes.

In total, the grounds spread across more than 2.7 acres, which provide the home with a feeling of peace and solitude, making it seem as though it is isolated from the rest of the world despite being located just a few minutes’ drive from some of Montecito’s most bustling areas.

Inside the main residence, guests are greeted by a double-height foyer, which features walls of glass that “flood the space with natural light” and allow the gardens to appear as an art installation, with little other decor required to bring the area to life.

Next is the main living space, which features the pitched ceiling for which the home received its “glass tent” description, as well as a “biomorphic Santa Barbara stone fireplace.”

The kitchen has been outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances, as well as Poggenpohl cabinetry, and was, according to the listing, “crafted with the serious chef in mind.”

That space then flows into the formal dining room, which once again uses glass walls to turn the surrounding area into a spectacular backdrop for every meal.

In total, the dwelling boasts three bedrooms with the primary suite taking center stage among these spaces. It offers “a spa-like bath, dual large dressing rooms, and tranquil views of the gardens and the coastal range.”

The property includes a detached one-bedroom, one-bathroom creekside guesthouse, as well as a separate studio space that could be used as a guest bedroom, yoga studio, or private office.

“The Erving House is more than a residence, it is a living piece of architectural history and one of Montecito’s most important homes,” the listing concludes. “It offers unparalleled privacy, serenity, and a lifestyle that celebrates the seamless interplay between nature and design.”