Best known for his Emmy-winning role as Detective Andy Sipowicz on NYPD Blue, actor Dennis Franz is no stranger to keeping things private. Since stepping away from the spotlight in the mid-2000s, he’s lived a quieter life in Montecito with his wife. Their longtime home in this exclusive enclave reflects that same retreat-like feel—private, peaceful, and full of character.
Set on 1.9 acres in Montecito, Dennis’ estate offers 9,000 square feet of living space with 7 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms. Originally built in 1900 and redesigned in 2001 by architect Peter Becker, the Cape Cod–style residence pairs timeless shingle siding with expansive interiors. The layout includes a luxurious primary suite with his-and-her bathrooms, walk-in closets, and a Jacuzzi tub.
Valued at $17,950,000, the property includes lush grounds with heirloom rose bushes, fruit trees, a pool, fountains, and a lighted bocce court. Outdoor living is elevated with a full kitchen, shower, pet washing station, and gated privacy throughout. It’s a rare blend of historic charm and laid-back luxury in one of California’s most sought-after towns.
Listing agents: Tricia Pennestri, Calcagno & Hamilton Group @ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties via Coldwell Banker Realty
Where is Montecito, CA?
Montecito, California, is nestled along the coast just southeast of Santa Barbara. It features residential neighborhoods, upscale resorts, and natural areas like the Hot Springs Trail. The community is governed by Santa Barbara County and maintains a quiet, low-density character. Its location between the ocean and the mountains offers both seclusion and scenic access.
Living Room
Exposed wood beams and a dramatic chandelier set a rustic tone in this vaulted space. A stone fireplace and antique upright piano bring a touch of heritage charm, while the plush sectional and richly colored rug ground the room in cozy comfort.
Fireplace
Soft green walls and white columns frame this bright sitting area, where tufted leather chairs and a trunk-style coffee table circle a glowing fireplace. Large windows and flowing drapes flood the space with light, giving it a refined but welcoming feel.
Kitchen
Warm wood cabinetry, a central island, and brick flooring lend a farmhouse feel to the spacious kitchen. Playful touches like the chandelier and a mounted cow sculpture add personality, while large windows frame garden views.
Kitchen
This view from the kitchen stretches to a sun-filled dining nook and a winding staircase beyond. The open flow of space invites gatherings, with rustic textures and warm tones tying everything together.
Dining Room
A long table sits ready for ten beneath a traditional chandelier, with French doors opening to the gardens outside. Soft green walls and a large wall mirror reflect natural light, adding a graceful elegance to the room.
Billiards Room
Warm wood tones and coffered ceilings set the tone in the billiards room. Floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors bring in natural light and lead to the pool outside. A classic red and ivory rug underfoot complements the vintage-inspired decor, while pendant lights hang above the pool table, ready for evening play.
Bedroom
Vaulted ceilings and floral drapes frame a serene, light-filled bedroom anchored by a carved wood bed and fireplace. The rich rug and warm tones give the space an inviting, old-world character.
Bedroom
This whimsical bedroom features a rounded wall of windows and a soaring, beamed ceiling. Pale green walls and white vintage-style furnishings make the space feel like a storybook retreat.
Bedroom
With its soft blue walls, vaulted ceiling, and chandelier, this serene bedroom exudes classic charm. A floral armchair in the corner adds a pop of color, while white shutters and curtains complete the tranquil scene.
Bedroom
This cozier bedroom features a soft blue and cream palette. A tall, sloped ceiling keeps the room feeling open, while the vintage-style chandelier and wingback chair add comfort and charm. The nearby bathroom is visible just beyond the doorway.
Bedroom
Bright and airy, this bedroom has French doors that open to a private balcony. Crisp white beadboard walls and a delicate chandelier give it a cottage feel. Wide plank hardwood floors and neutral tones keep the space grounded in traditional style.
Bedroom
This warm-toned bedroom has golden walls and traditional floral drapes. A dark wood four-poster bed and red lounge chair create a bold, cozy vibe. The tall windows let in leafy views and natural light, softening the room’s rich decor.
Bathroom
Classic and elegant, this bathroom features a vintage-style tub under a window with sheer curtains. White hex tile covers the floor, and a glass-enclosed shower sits to the left. The chandelier overhead adds a gentle glow and a touch of glamour.
Bathroom
This charming bathroom showcases a unique barrel-vaulted shower niche with subway tiles and a rain shower head. The black-and-white tile floor feels playful and classic. A pedestal sink and round mirror keep the look timeless.
Bathroom
Sunny and bright, this bathroom features buttery yellow walls and an arched tub-shower alcove with glossy white tile. A white pedestal sink and beadboard paneling maintain the home’s historic character.
Outdoor Dining Area
Set for evening meals, this outdoor dining space glows under overhead lights. A rug defines the area, surrounded by gardens and protected by a white-beamed ceiling. It’s ideal for al fresco dining with a touch of elegance.
Wraparound Porch
This sun-drenched porch runs along the home’s back, overlooking vibrant gardens and lawn. The white railing and columns match the home’s historic style, while heat lamps overhead suggest it’s a favorite spot even on cooler days.
Outdoor Lounge
A cozy outdoor space with a stone fireplace invites relaxing evenings. Wicker seating surrounds a coffee table under ceiling fans, with a full outdoor kitchen just steps away. French doors connect this space seamlessly to the home.
Balcony
Perfect for a quiet moment, this small balcony offers a peaceful view of the lawn and trees. An ornate black iron bistro set adds a romantic feel. Surrounded by curved white railings, it’s a sunny perch for morning coffee or sunset wine.
Lighted Bocce Ball Court
This outdoor recreation space features a rare double bocce ball court, framed by custom wood trellises and neatly trimmed hedges. Overhead lighting allows for play well into the evening, while nearby benches offer a cozy spot for spectators. The space is perfect for relaxed gatherings with family and friends.
Garage
A wide, beautifully paved motor court leads to a three-car garage, framed with carriage-style doors and glowing sconces. The upper level likely includes a guest suite or additional living space, as indicated by the lit windows and cupola. Classic shingle and board-and-batten siding complete the Cape Cod look.
“She Shed”
Nestled beneath a mature oak tree, this charming outbuilding evokes fairytale charm with its petite porch and dormer roof. Surrounded by lush gardens and flowering plants, it serves as a peaceful creative escape or private studio tucked quietly within the estate grounds.
Side Exterior
This side angle captures the home’s extended wraparound porch and lush lawn, offering a more intimate look at the architecture. White railings and columns add to the classic coastal charm, while mature landscaping and privacy hedges create a secluded, peaceful setting. This view emphasizes the expansive nature of the property and the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Aerial View
The estate unfolds beneath a breathtaking mountain backdrop, with manicured lawns and a central fountain anchoring the circular drive. The classic shingle-style home is surrounded by lush trees and hedges, giving a sense of complete seclusion. Soft golden lighting glows from within, adding warmth to the evening scene.
Listing agents: Tricia Pennestri, Calcagno & Hamilton Group @ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties via Coldwell Banker Realty
