Purchased as “fixer” in the Mendocino Village in 2001, what followed was a multi-year labor of love to restore and preserve the historic Bettencourt House and Water Tower Barn. Arguably one of finest locations on the coveted western edge of the village of Mendocino, this compound offers stunning, unobstructed, 180-degree views of the bay and the Pacific Ocean. The transformation carefully balanced the historic with the contemporary adding modern comforts like radiant heating, custom-built cabinetry, and updated systems. The main house, sporting shiplap and shingle siding, is set high on the south - facing parcel and offers views from virtually every room. Upon entering the main residence, you step into the spacious living room featuring large picture windows that offer stunning views of the native-scaped gardens and the ocean beyond. This space wraps around to a dining area and separate den. The custom kitchen features Shaker-style cherry cabinetry and wall shelf for displaying china, teak and reclaimed marble countertops, original Douglas Fir flooring, and walk-in pantry. Adjacent to the kitchen, is a full bath with farmhouse sink, Cherry storage cabinet, separate vanity, shower, and water closet clad in the original board and batten. The primary suite with a wash basin and WC, occupies the entire second level.

The water tower, located over the gabled barn, was originally constructed in 1905, then restored and converted into an exquisite living space in 2006. The rustic exterior and interior structural posts, flooring and ceiling beams lends perspective on the meticulous design and detailed craftsmanship that went into this structure. The restoration included the careful integration of custom woodwork that make the spaces unique and purposeful. Within the barn you’ll find two sitting areas (one with a discreet murphy bed); a bathroom with separate toilet and a shower room; and a separate laundry room and office. Quite possibly the most endearing and unique feature of this structure is the “hidden bedroom” located behind a seamlessly integrated door panel. Adjacent to that panel, you’ll also find a walk-in closet, storage area and access to an attic space.

With hand to shovel, the half-acre of dead grass and blackberry brambles was transformed into a gardener’s paradise of terraced gardens showcasing native vegetation, verdant colors and infinite textures. A beautiful hedge surrounds the property offering screened privacy from the street, and the element of surprise for guests entering the compound.

2007 Mendocino Historic District Preservation Award : For outstanding commitment to historic preservation through the careful restoration and rehabilitation of the Bettencourt Water Tower Barn (and house), thereby sustaining the integrity of the architecture and character of the Mendocino Historic Preservation District.


Property Details and Upgrades:

The house ~1500 +- sq. ft.
The barn ~ 965 +- sq. ft.


House renovated in 2001/2002 ( New foundation 2001). Barn renovated in 2004 – 2006 ( New foundation in the “cocktail hour room” and bedroom). Master woodworkers custom cabinets and built-ins - Winegar Cabinetry and Construction /Brian Lee Designs. Windows were custom milled to replicate the original windows in the house. Radiant floor heat in house and barn. Propane heat, stove and two fireplaces. New Amtrol BoilerMate ® Indirect-Fired Water Heater (installed May 2025). New boiler in 2018. New cedar shake roof on house 2023 (20-year warranty). Cedar shake roof is in good shape (20-year warranty expires in November). House painted Sept 2024. Barn termite fumigated April 2024. Two Wells:
One for house water - *new deeper well (140+ feet) was dug in 2014 (4.59 GPM). One for garden hoses - passive collection from barn roof. Garden Area:
Drip irrigation system. Terraced garden with mature landscaping. Two sheds (one is historic). Original outhouse.