Enchanting Montecito Garden Estate Designed by Renowned Landscape Architect Bob Clark Hits the Market

MONTECITO, Calif., February 13, 2025 — One of the final masterpieces of acclaimed landscape architect Bob Clark, as archived in the Smithsonian Gardens, Ken Druse garden photography collection , is now available for sale, offering discerning buyers the opportunity to own a slice of sustainable design history. Listed by Locale Group, Compass Montecito, this breathtaking property at 1077 Summit Road is priced at $8,995,000.

Clark, celebrated for his commitment to sustainability, crafted landscapes that harmonize with their environment while fulfilling the needs of their users. His designs blend formal and casual gardens, incorporating specimens from different regions, paying special attention to light and location to ensure the gardens retain their beauty over time. The gardens at 1077 Summit Road exemplify these principles, featuring a regionally diverse, multi-species habitat that maximizes
water efficiency without compromising beauty.

The property’s current owners, both athletes, understand what it takes to make things great and keep them: author, coach, and former world champion Masters swimmer Gerry Rodrigues, known as the "Sultan of Swim" and owner of Tower 26 Triathlon & swimming programs, has swam around Manhattan. Elizabeth Farnan Rodrigues, CPA, MBA, owner/race director for the legendary Santa Barbara Triathlon, has competed in 30 marathons and 10 Ironman’s. They have meticulously maintained and enhanced the magical gardens with additional roses, rock-lined pathways, and guided walkways. The Rodrigues’s delight in hosting friends and family in the estate’s numerous outdoor spaces.

Originally commissioned by previous owner David Nygren, Clark’s vision for the gardens brought together native California and drought-tolerant plants to address the region’s environmental and water challenges. A striking geometric rose garden graces the front yard, framing spectacular mountain views. Uniquely positioned close to the ocean, the garden thrives without mold or moisture issues, a rare achievement for coastal rose gardens. The transformation of the property also involved significant structural work, including the addition of a stone retaining wall and meandering stone paths. Remarkably, with no driveway access during the renovation, a team of 25 laborers transported every stone by hand from the front yard to the back. Other upgrades include a wrap-around porch for the guest house, a new staircase leading to a serene koi pond, and a hot tub deck surrounded by lush greenery.

The back gardens feature an array of succulents sourced from the world-renowned Lotusland and a prestigious San Diego nursery, combining natural elegance with water-conscious design. Adjacent to the prestigious Montecito Club, the property uniquely enjoys a Montecito address
while being situated directly across from the newly positioned 18th hole of the golf course. This distinctive location further enhances its allure, offering privacy and proximity to local amenities. This property presents a rare opportunity to own a quintessential Montecito estate that marries timeless design with ecological responsibility. For more information or to schedule a viewing,
please contact the Locale Group at Compass Montecito.

Listed By:
Locale Group, Compass Montecito
Jon Perkins 805-284-3660
jon@thinklocale.com