Heating It Up: Homes With Distinctive Fireplaces

These five homes feature eye-catching fireplaces—from a commanding tower of stacked stone to a sleekly streamlined contemporary fixture—that contribute both warmth and style.

Impeccable Style in Pacific Heights

Sophisticated and inviting, this timeless four-level residence on one of the most desirable blocks in Pacific Heights has been impeccably updated while maintaining respect for its architectural provenance. Six bedrooms—including a lower-level suite with a kitchenette—join two family rooms, a light-filled kitchen, multiple decks, a delightful garden hideaway, a photography and art room, an elevator, a two-car garage, and formal entertaining spaces—among them a living room with an elegant marble fireplace.

Montecito Getaway

Tasteful use of wood and stone creates a welcoming ambience in this unique three-bedroom, 4,112-square-foot residence in Montecito. The heart of the home is a great room with a soaring ceiling, a wall of windows, and a stalwart stone fireplace that anchors and warms the space. Steps away are an inviting media room and a well-outfitted chef’s kitchen. Outdoors, thriving trees and lush lawn envelop a pool and spa set in a striking stone patio.

Historic Santa Fe Estate

On “the camino” in the core of Santa Fe’s historic Eastside district, this rare, important property dates to 1935 and, over the decades, has been lovingly expanded, reimagined, and exquisitely finished with every comfort and amenity expected in a chic modern estate. The main residence offers three bedroom suites, a gym, basement storage, multiple fireplaces—in regional kiva and classic traditional styles—and an attached three-car garage. Nearby are a guesthouse with two bedrooms and baths and a handsome new multi-use structure.

Effortless Living in Alisal Ranch

Alisal Ranch is a historic cattle property transformed into a residential community offering golf, tennis, a spa, and mountain views. This inviting home on 1.4 acres allows for easy, breezy open-plan living, with a cook’s kitchen, a dining area, chic living space, and a relaxed family room united in a great room with a soaring ceiling and a striking two-sided fireplace. A patio and deck overlook the expansive backyard, where a bridge leads across a creek to a bocce court and golf course.

Midcountry Charm

In the desirable midcountry of Greenwich, this elegant five-bedroom Tudor manor dating to 1927 combines modern amenities with enchanting period architectural details, from plaster walls, gracefully arching doorways, oak floors, and two wood-burning fireplaces—one with an oversized ornate wood mantel, the other framed with colorful tile. The 2.3-acre grounds feature lovely landscaped gardens, a pool, specimen trees, and flowering shrubs—all overlooking a flourishing wooded nature preserve.

This article was originally published in Sotheby’s International Realty’s Extraordinary Living Blog in December 2021.