At Home in Santa Barbara with Madeline Stuart

Madeline Stuart in Santa Barbara via Quintessence

Madeline Stuart may have come to her current career in design via a somewhat circuitous route, yet it is clear her stylish intellectual parents (designer mother and film director father) instilled in her all the tools she needed to create the meticulous, artistic interiors she is known for today. And while Madeline works on many large and impressive projects for her clients, nowhere are her abilities more evident than in the charming one bedroom Santa Barbara bungalow she renovated for herself, her husband and her two Parson Russell terriers, Beatrice and Mr. Peabody. Please join Susanna and me for a visit with Madeline in beautiful Santa Barbara at her enchanting weekend getaway.

Madeline Stuart had long dreamed of having a weekend home in the beautiful coastal town of Santa Barbara. And when the designer, who has a deep love of history and architecture, learned of a cottage for sale in the historic and convenient El Caserio neighborhood, it was a no-brainer. She saw it on Wednesday and by Thursday it was hers, without even a viewing by her husband.

Madeline Stuart in Santa Barbara via QuintessenceAnd even though her intention was a simple renovation, Madeline’s educated eye saw the possibilities. Starting with sympathetic architectural changes and tons of white paint (Benjamin Moore White Dove), the bungalow was transformed from a tired and dilapidated eyesore into an impeccably chic and cozy retreat.

Madeline Stuart library, photo Stacey Bewkes for QuintessenceFrom “new” vintage hardware to simple yet clever additional storage and a storybook backyard garden, perfect for entertaining,

Madeline Stuart Santa Barbara garden, photo Stacey Bewkes

Madeline’s meticulous attention to detail can be seen in every room, corner and tabletop, where her wide ranging collections are thoughtfully interspersed among her more practical possessions.

Madeline Stuart Santa Barbara living room, photo Stacey Bewkes

Madeline Stuart Santa Barbara dining room via Quintessence

And for those of you who would like to see more of Madeline’s work, her first book, No Place Like Home, just released, is not only beautiful but a treat to read – written by her with wit and wisdom.

Madeline Stuart No Place Like Home

From a “rustic modern” ranch in Montana,

Madeline Stuart Montana interior, photo Trevor Tondro

to an elegant European inspired home in LA, all of Madeline’s work demonstrates her love of fine craftsmanship, classic proportions, unexpected pairings  and rich and personally layered interiors.

Madeline Stuart designed Los Angeles dining room, photo Trevor Tondrotwo photos above by Trevor Tondro. All others by Stacey Bewkes for Quintessence

So thank you Madeline! We so loved visiting with you, Beatrice and Mr. Peabody in your perfectly appointed Santa Barbara hideaway!

10 thoughts on “At Home in Santa Barbara with Madeline Stuart

  1. I am SO pleased you have these “features”…vindication…validation…whatever…yes!! It was wonderful and I will go back inside my pieds-à-terre ( cabin) and *sigh.* franki

  2. Another truly great peek into a stylish and accomplished designer’s personal oasis. There were so many extraordinary touches, I was continually hitting pause! You cover a wide range of styles in these visits which are enriching, fascinating and informative- thank you for brightening my morning, ladies!

  3. BEAUTIFUL……..I will LOOK for THE BOOK!I see she uses wooden tables!
    She may enjoy this find for future wooden tables KRISTOPHER KIRKPATRICK.COM
    He resides in Southern California as well.
    ALWAYS enjoyable to see who you are featuring!

  4. So inspiring. Want to head to Santa Barbara now!
    I love Madeline’s style whether cozy or grand it is all beautiful.

  5. I have now watched this video over 8 times while constantly pausing! I love it all . . . especially, the bathroom with brass & soapstone. So much character exists in this home.

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