Via Alegre: A Homage to Home

From 2001 to 2009, Arnold Brothers completed five extensive projects that all set a high standard  in the property market. Unique homes that carry cohesion throughout the property, Arnold Brothers has taken pride in seeing these original projects age gracefully and continue to be well received within the Santa Barbara housing world.

A Cultural Foundation

In 2019, Arnold Brothers had the opportunity to contribute to another development project –  Via Alegre in Hope Ranch,  a two and a half acre parcel with rolling topography and ocean views. Before Arnold Brothers broke ground, the site had become overgrown and was developed with a sprawling 1960’s Ranch style home.

Present day Hope Ranch is a portion of what was originally two Mexican land grants.  Rancho La Calera (The Kiln) and Rancho Las Positas (Little Puddles) were merged by Thomas Robbins in 1846.  Robbins. Robbins, one of the “Yankee Barbarenos” who moved to Santa Barbara from the East Coast; he married into the culture, both literally and figuratively. He became a Mexican citizen and married into the Carrillo family. Later on, he sold the combined ranches to Thomas Hope.

Call to the Past

The Via Alegre project pays homage to the Yankee Barbarenos’ legacy, as it embodies a mix of Spanishand East Coast architectural styles. Steeper pitched and shake roofing point to the Yankee Style, as opposed to Spanish inspired red tiled details. Traditional massing and materials, combined with a contemporary layout and interior finishes, speak to a modern representation of our town’s mixed  culture and style. Via Alegre  features familiar shadows of thick plastered walls with deep set windows, contrasted against 16’ side pocketing sliding doors and contemporary finishes. 

Upon completion, Via Alegre was listed for sale.  Like previous Arnold Brothers projects, it set an impressive precedent. The property received multiple offers, and – in less than one week – it entered   escrow at approximately 10% over the list price. To this date, it represents the highest transfer in Hope Ranch that was not on the water.  Arnold Brothers Construction is honored to have taken part in the project and takes immense pride in the outcome. Santa Barbara is home, and Arnold Brothers finds privilege in serving residents by bringing inspired design to life.