Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group  |  License #01426886  |  805-565-4014

Neighborhood Spotlight: Birnam Wood

October 27th, 2023

 

Originally purchased as a 223.6-acre lemon orchard in 1964 by Robert McLean, former Santa Barbara News Press owner, Birman Wood has since been transformed into one of Santa Barbara’s most prestigious private communities. Full-time guard-gated security protects the peace of daily life, while the Santa Ynez Mountains, stretches of Pacific coastline, and, of course, the masterfully manicured, private Birnam Wood Golf Club fairways treat residents to unparalleled natural beauty the moment they step out of their front door.

A famously peaceful community, Birnam Wood’s epicenter for activity is the renowned, private Birnam Wood Golf Club. Referred to by its creator, golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., as “the best short course ever built,” Birnam Wood Golf Club is home to a world-class 18-hole golf course surrounded by the Santa Ynez Mountains. In addition to golf, the club offers its members premier dining, tennis, croquet, fitness, and social programs. Built as a working lemon orchard site in 1892, the clubhouse has been gut-renovated and expanded to host members for both casual and fine dining, sunset drinks, and private events. 

Birnam Wood is a closely-knit community comprising only 142 single-family homes and estates. Although a select few properties are listed publicly, it is common for Birnam Wood homes to be sold off-market in order to protect residents’ privacy. While most parcels are roughly one acre, architectural styles span from French Provincial, Normandy, neoclassical, modernist, and more. Neighborhoods are known for their impeccable landscaping and playful street names inspired by Shakespeare's plays.

As longtime enthusiasts of Birnam Wood and the community it provides its residents, our team is consistently up-to-date on what is happening in the area.


FEATURE AVAILABLE PROPERTY


Effortless California living meets timeless Montecito elegance at this exclusive, custom-built residence in coveted Birnam Wood. Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac overlooking the fourth fairway, this single-level garden home rests on one of the largest and most usable parcels within the community – a picturesque 1.4 acres framed by soaring mountain views, romantic oaks, and manicured park-like grounds. 

Inspired by the whimsical nostalgia of The San Ysidro Ranch, architect Jerry Goodman and home builder Mark Trabucco combined luxury with versatility to create seamless indoor-outdoor living across a generous floor plan spanning approximately 3,714 square feet. 

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feature sold properties

Here are some properties that will give you an idea of what is available within the gates of Birnam Wood.

470 EASTGATE LANE

Flooded with panoramic mountain and golf course views, this welcoming 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom home enjoys encaptures endless natural light and beauty. Designed for the outdoor enthusiast, the property enjoys multiple outdoor dining areas, a built-in BBQ, a pool, fountains, and lovely landscaping. With an attached guest house, 3-car garage, and gated motor court, this home wants for nothing.


Sold in 2019 by Bill Vaughan from Montecito Village Realty.

1975 INVERNESS LANE


Boasting an ideal floor plan and gorgeous updates, this 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom home offers an enviable lifestyle for full-time residents or as a part-time home. Privacy and peacefulness come easily here as each bedroom suite is in a different home wing. A renovated kitchen opens to the family room and dining room, while multiple outdoor spaces flow into beautiful gardens for that classic California indoor/outdoor lifestyle.


Available Now by Riskin Partners Estate Group by Village Properties.

1970 LEMON RANCH ROAD


A sublime French-country-inspired home with meticulous attention to detail elegance abounds in this 3-bedroom, 5-bathroom home. From the travertine-walled domed entry foyer, antiqued wood floors, vaulted beamed & coffered ceilings, and upholstered & Venetian plastered walls to the climate-controlled wine room, oversized garage & chef’s kitchen, gracious living here is effortless. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature over 150 rose buses and a pool terrace, all backdropped by sprawling southern views.


Sold in 2023 by Timothy Walsh from Village Properties. Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group Represented the Buyer.

1983 INVERNESS LANE

Nestled within the prestigious enclave of Birnam Wood, this exceptional estate exudes an air of timeless sophistication and unparalleled luxury. Set against the backdrop of lush landscapes and meticulously manicured grounds, the residence seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern amenities. The expansive living spaces, adorned with fine finishes and bespoke details, open onto grand terraces offering breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Indulge in the gourmet chef's kitchen, unwind in the opulent master suite, or entertain guests in the stunning outdoor pavilion by the pool. This estate represents a rare opportunity to experience the epitome of California's luxury living.

Sold in 2024 by Ryan Malmsten from Santa Barbara Brokers. Marsha Kotlyar Estate Group Represented the Buyer.

your Birnam wood resource

With many Birnam Wood properties not available in the public Multiple Listing Service (MLS), it is essential to be represented by agents who know the residents and what off-market properties may be available. If you are considering this community and would like to discuss your options, we would be delighted to help. 

Contact us at 805-565-4014 or email Home@MKGroupMontecito.com. All calls are confidential.

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