Meghan Markle is bringing her signature charm and elegance to Netflix with her highly anticipated lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan. Premiering on January 15, the show invites viewers to “feel at home” with the Duchess of Sussex. Ironically, the series wasn’t filmed at her $14.65 million Montecito mansion but at a nearby $8 million farmhouse. Let’s take a closer look at this captivating property and how it became the perfect backdrop for Meghan’s heartfelt show, and why Montecito remains one of California’s most desirable luxury real estate markets.
The $8M Montecito Gem
Nestled on a 5-acre plot in Montecito, the farmhouse boasts four bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and a cozy barn that adds a rustic charm. The property, owned by philanthropists Tom and Sherrie Cipolla, was purchased in 2017 for $4.7 million and has since appreciated to an estimated $8 million. Its chic, sunlit interiors and picturesque grounds, adorned with lemon and avocado trees, exude the warmth and sophistication perfect for Meghan’s storytelling. With its lemon and avocado trees, sun-drenched interiors, and timeless charm, the home perfectly embodies the elegance and warmth synonymous with Montecito’s luxury real estate market.
Brendan Brown, one of California’s top luxury real estate agents, highlights how homes like this seamlessly combine exclusivity, natural beauty, and sophistication.
Netflix-Worthy Interiors
The farmhouse features an open floor plan with an abundance of natural light streaming through large windows—a hallmark of the breezy California lifestyle. With decor reminiscent of a Nancy Meyers movie, the home seamlessly combines elegance and comfort. This setting proved ideal for filming scenes of Meghan whipping up culinary delights with celebrity guests, including Mindy Kaling, Abigail Spencer, and even Prince Harry.
Beyond the Kitchen
While much of the series takes place in the kitchen, where Meghan crafts dishes like ice cream, omelets, and cakes, the show also highlights the farmhouse’s outdoor beauty. From the lemon groves to the local flower market, the series emphasizes Meghan’s love for finding joy in the little things. As she explains, “We’re not in the pursuit of perfection; we’re in the pursuit of joy.”
Privacy and Purpose
Meghan and Harry’s desire for privacy at their Montecito estate led them to film at the Cipolla property. This aligns with their preference for keeping their $14.65 million mansion, featuring nine bedrooms and 16 bathrooms, largely under wraps. Brendan Brown emphasizes that privacy is one of the most sought-after qualities in Montecito’s elite real estate market, making homes like this farmhouse ideal for high-profile buyers.
A Legacy of Elegance
This isn’t the first time Meghan and Harry have chosen an alternate home for filming. Their 2022 Netflix documentary Harry & Meghanwas shot at a $30 million estate nearby. These choices reflect their commitment to balancing public engagement with private living—offering glimpses into their world while maintaining a boundary between work and home.
Final Thoughts
Meghan Markle’s choice of this stunning farmhouse underscores her refined taste and commitment to authenticity. With With Love, Meghan set to inspire audiences worldwide, the $8 million property serves as the perfect canvas for the Duchess’s vision.
Whether you’re drawn to the farmhouse’s timeless elegance or Meghan’s heartfelt storytelling, this series—and the home it was filmed in—promises to be unforgettable.
About Brendan Brown Luxury Real Estate
At Brendan Brown Luxury Real Estate, we specialize in representing high-end properties that exude sophistication, elegance, and unique stories—just like Meghan Markle’s $8 million filming location. Whether you’re buying, selling, or seeking inspiration, let us help you find your dream home.
Looking to explore Montecito’s finest homes? Contact Brendan Brown today!
