Back in 2005, Daniel Baker founded what has become the largest digital aviation and flight-tracking operation in the world. Though he hasn’t been involved in day-to-day operations of Houston-based FlightAware since last year — relinquishing his role as CEO after the company was acquired by Collins Aerospace — the veteran tech and aviation executive is still a frequent flyer, soaring out of Texas to procure an elegant mansion in Santa Barbara County’s posh seaside enclave of Montecito.
Records show Baker recently doled out $18.6 million for his new French Provencal-inspired spread, which offers picturesque ocean and mountain views from its site on a prestigious street in the heart of the Golden Quadrangle.
Built in the late 1990s, and since extensively renovated by its previous owners, the stately residence comes complete with a five-bedroom, six-bath main house featuring just over 7,500 square feet of living space on two levels. Additional structures include a one-bedroom, one-bath guest cottage and three-car garage.
Tucked away behind a lengthy gated driveway, on an acre-plus parcel of land laced with manicured lawns and gardens, the creamy stucco and brick-accented main house is fronted by an entry courtyard bolstered by an ornate fountain and fire-pit lounge area. Inside, rustic yet stylish interiors are adorned throughout with high wood-beam ceilings, rich hardwood floors, materials imported from France and numerous French doors providing seamless indoor-outdoor environs.
Main-level highlights include formal living and dining rooms, and a cozy fireside family room that connects to a country-style kitchen outfitted with an eat-in island, high-end stainless appliances and a wine cooler, as well as an accompanying breakfast nook.
Upstairs, the spacious master retreat offers a separate fireside sitting area that opens to a private balcony, and spa-like bath sporting a soaking tub and walk-in shower. Elsewhere is an 1,800-bottle temperature-controlled wine cellar and wet bar-equipped billiard room.
The posh amenities continue outdoors, where the park-like grounds host a pool wrapped by a sundeck, tennis court with viewing platform, bocce ball court, kitchen and bar setup, and plenty of spots ideal for al fresco dining and entertaining.
The listing was held by Nancy Kogevinas of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties; Cristal Clarke of Berkshire Hathaway repped the buyer.
