Putting chi in chichi
Feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of arranging space to achieve harmony and balance, figured prominently in the design of this Montecito mansion when it was built in 1975.
The house was placed in what is known in feng shui as the chair position, said to engender good health and well-being. It is situated on a hilltop with the lot sloping down to the ocean in the front and rising at the rear -- a shape roughly resembling a chair. A pool, waterfalls, panoramic views and soaring ceilings are other features included with feng shui principles in mind.
For the record:
12:00 a.m. Nov. 20, 2005 For The Record
Los Angeles Times Sunday November 20, 2005 Home Edition Real Estate Part K Page 3 Features Desk 0 inches; 37 words Type of Material: Correction
Photo credits -- The Montecito Home of the Week photos in the Nov. 13 issue were credited to John Turner. Brian Jones took the exterior and kitchen photographs, and Turner took the shot of the living room.
There are higher ceiling heights where there is greater floor space and lower ceilings in the more intimate rooms.
True to feng shui, which strikes to increase chi or positive energy, there is also a strong sense of symmetry in the house and in the way it is furnished. The asking price includes the furnishings and artwork.
About this house: The Palladian, neoclassical home on about 2 acres was designed by architect James Morris for a British-born woman and her Italian-born photographer husband. They imported many items, even the orange trees from Sicily. They got the idea of using feng shui from their extensive travels through Asia.
In feng shui, the number 8 is considered lucky. Both the address and the price include 8s.
The current owners, also from Europe, have held title since 1996.
Asking price: $15,888,000
Size: There are two master-bedroom suites in the 6,000-square-foot house.
Features: The house has a large courtyard and ocean views from almost every room. Amenities include Italian marble floors, four fireplaces, a 40-car motor court, many patios, a rose garden and two Versace-designed entry gates. There is a stable and room for four horses.
Where: Montecito
Listing agent: Bob Hurwitz, Hurwitz James Co., Beverly Hills, (310) 301-1827.
To submit a candidate for Home of the Week, please send color interior and exterior photos on a CD with caption information and a detailed description of the house, including what makes the property unusual, to Ruth Ryon, Real Estate Section, Los Angeles Times, 202 W. 1st St., Los Angeles, CA 90012; or e-mail homeoftheweek@latimes.com.
