Don Gragg founded his construction company, Santa Barbara Design and Build, shortly after building his own home. After months of enduring the hassle and inefficient process of trying to coordinate the schedules of multiple subcontractors, long with being caught in the middle of architect and tradesperson disagreements, Gragg soon realized he was wasting valuable time and a lot of money. “The project was frustrating to say the least,” says Gragg. “But it gave me the inspiration to streamline future construction, and from that Santa Barbara Design & Build was born.”
Santa Barbara Design & Build is a full service design and construction firm that does both new construction and remodels. On the design side, they providecomputer assisted design (CAD); working drawings and obtains all levels of approval, including permits from all agencies. On the build side, they coordinateall the tradespeople so there are no scheduling conflicts and the process runs at maximum efficiency. “With this approach, the quality of the project isnever compromised,” says Gragg. “There is never a misunderstanding between tradespeople or architect that might cause expensive delays. The homeowner is alwaysin the loop and is able to enjoy their new home much sooner.” The design for this Montecito beach home and separate guest cottage was inspired by its proximity toButterfly Beach and Coast Village Road. The beach house, cottage and surrounding gardens feature a long list of top level finish materials and appliances inkeeping with its location and high end beach house theme.
The house is a single level four bedroom, three and a half bath with vaulted ceilings. Hardwood floors, travertine, custom tile work, new windows & doors and skylights provide warmth and natural light throughout. The built in sound system sends music to specific zones. The gourmet kitchen includes a Viking range, Sub Zero fridge, two 50-bottle wine coolers, granite counters and custom lighted cabinetry throughout. The floor plan includes a formal dining room with lighted built-ins, formal living room with French doors leading out to the garden.
The spacious master suite features a fireplace, dual closets, dual vanity, large tub and a state of the art shower system. The guest cottage features one bedroom and bath with a living room, fireplace and galley kitchen. New windows and French doors look out to a private patio and garden. The floors feature radiant heat for cool winter nights.
The gardens feature a swimming pool and large patio for entertaining, state of the art irrigation, exotic plant specimens and stately oaks. Copper gutters highlight the trim of both house and cottage.
“This was a fun project. I am proud of this and the many other projects over the years that have resulted in clients who love their home.” says Gragg. –RB
