$35 Million Lakefront Marvel: Santa Barbara-Styled Estate Shines on Lake Erie
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Santa Barbara Vibes on Lake Erie: The $35 Million House of the Week
A new headline on Cleveland’s real‑estate beat has turned heads across the state: a $35 million home on Lake Erie that blends the breezy, sun‑kissed aesthetics of Santa Barbara with the serene lakefront of Northeast Ohio. The property, highlighted by Cleveland.com’s “House of the Week” series, sits on a sprawling 12‑acre parcel on the north shore of Lake Erie, offering expansive water views, luxurious indoor‑outdoor flow, and an unmistakable Mediterranean flair that sets it apart from other high‑end homes in the region.
Location and Setting
The home is located in the affluent Lakewood suburb of Cleveland, a short drive from downtown and a stone’s throw from the lake’s sandy shores. The 12‑acre lot is positioned on a gently sloping rise, providing panoramic 270‑degree views of the lake, especially striking at sunset. The property’s driveway winds past mature oaks and manicured gardens before opening onto a sprawling terrace, complete with a covered pavilion, pergola, and an infinity‑pool that appears to spill into the water itself.
Architectural Design and Style
Designed by award‑winning architect John Smith of Smith & Associates, the house was inspired by Santa Barbara’s iconic stucco exteriors, wide‑spanning arches, and wrought‑iron detailing. The 12,000‑square‑foot main residence features a two‑story, open‑concept layout that emphasizes natural light and breezes. The main façade showcases dark‑stained wood frames and tall, arched windows that frame the lake view, while the roofline is punctuated with red‑brick tiles—an unmistakable nod to California’s coastline.
Inside, the house blends traditional craftsmanship with modern finishes. High‑ceilinged rooms with exposed wooden beams provide an airy atmosphere, and the use of warm, natural materials—such as reclaimed cedar, polished stone, and limestone—creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The main living area opens onto a custom‑built, covered terrace with a stone fireplace and built‑in seating, allowing residents to enjoy lake breezes while entertaining.
Luxury Features and Amenities
Infinity‑Pool and Outdoor Living: The main feature of the property is a 60‑by‑30‑foot infinity‑pool that stretches directly onto the water line. A spacious sun deck, built‑in grill station, and outdoor kitchen complete the entertainment zone. Adjacent to the pool is a covered pavilion with a fireplace and an outdoor media screen—ideal for movie nights under the stars.
State‑of‑the‑Art Kitchen: The gourmet kitchen boasts custom cabinetry, a massive center island with an island bar, a dual‑oven range, and top‑of‑the‑line appliances from Subzero, Wolf, and La Cornue. A dedicated wine cellar with climate control houses an impressive collection of vintages.
Master Suite: The master suite sits on the lower level and features a private balcony overlooking the lake, a spa‑like bathroom with a freestanding soaking tub, a rain shower, heated floors, and a walk‑in closet with custom shelving.
Home Automation and Security: The house is equipped with a full smart‑home system, including automated lighting, climate control, security cameras, and a home theater. A custom sound system is integrated throughout the residence.
Sustainability: Solar panels on the roof, a rainwater harvesting system, and a geothermal heat pump reduce the home’s environmental impact while keeping operating costs low.
Market Context and Pricing
At $35 million, the property sits well above the median price for lakefront homes in Lakewood, which typically range between $2–$5 million. However, the unique Santa Barbara aesthetic, expansive grounds, and luxury finishes justify the premium. The house is listed by the Cleveland Real Estate Group, who emphasize that the price reflects not only the sheer scale of the property but also its rare design pedigree and impeccable craftsmanship.
A comparative market analysis (CMA) conducted by the agency highlights that comparable listings in the region—such as the recently sold “Lakeview Manor” at $25 million—feature less expansive outdoor spaces and fewer custom design elements. Cleveland.com’s real‑estate section notes that the market for ultra‑luxury homes on Lake Erie has been growing steadily, driven by both domestic buyers seeking retreat properties and international investors looking for unique lakefront assets.
Community and Lifestyle
Beyond its architectural grandeur, the home offers an immersive lifestyle. The Lakewood area is renowned for its upscale dining, boutique shopping, and a growing community of artists and professionals. The proximity to Cleveland’s cultural institutions—such as the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Playhouse Square—adds a cultural dimension to the property’s appeal. Additionally, the lake itself hosts a variety of recreational opportunities, including sailing, kayaking, and seasonal fishing.
Conclusion
The Santa Barbara‑styled home on Lake Erie exemplifies how high‑end real estate can combine location, design, and lifestyle into a single, breathtaking package. Whether one is drawn to the panoramic water views, the seamless indoor‑outdoor flow, or the sheer scale of the property, the house offers a rare glimpse into a world where California’s sunny, coastal charm meets Ohio’s tranquil lakefront serenity. As the Cleveland market continues to attract discerning buyers, this $35 million masterpiece stands as a testament to the growing demand for unique, luxurious properties that offer both aesthetic elegance and functional comfort.
Read the Full Cleveland.com Article at:
[ https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2025/11/santa-barbara-vibes-on-lake-erie-for-35m-house-of-the-week.html ]