The $29 Million Secret Of The Butterfly House In Carmel, California: A Mid-Century Masterpiece Sold In A Record Deal
Forget everything you think you know about "The Butterfly House" in Carmel, California. Despite the whimsical name, this iconic structure is not a public sanctuary for Monarch butterflies, but rather one of the most significant and exclusive oceanfront private residences on the entire Central Coast. As of late December 2025, the house remains a legendary piece of real estate history, having recently commanded a multi-million dollar sale price that cemented its status as an architectural treasure.
The true story of the Butterfly House is one of visionary design, dramatic oceanfront living, and a recent, massive renovation that transformed a mid-century gem into a modern luxury fortress. Located on the rugged granite outcroppings of Carmel Point, the home’s sale was a major headline, highlighting the extreme value of architectural pedigree in the hyper-exclusive Carmel-by-the-Sea market. This is the deep dive into the history, the design, and the unbelievable details of this legendary property.
The Architectural Biography of a Coastal Icon
The Butterfly House is more than just a house; it is a landmark of American Mid-century modern architecture. Its profile is instantly recognizable to design enthusiasts and local residents alike. The home’s history is inextricably linked to its location and its original designer, Frank Wynkoop.
- Official Name: The Butterfly House
- Location: 26320 Scenic Road, Carmel Point, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
- Original Architect: Francis W. "Frank" Wynkoop (1902–1978)
- Year Built: 1951 (Completed in 1952)
- Architectural Style: Mid-century Modern
- Signature Feature: The unique, wing-shaped roofline that hangs over the facade, giving the house its distinctive moniker.
- Setting: Perched on a granite outcropping directly on the Pacific Ocean, offering dramatic views of Carmel Bay.
- Renovation Architect/Designer: Jamie Bush
- Latest Major Event: Sold for $29 Million in one of Carmel's priciest real estate transactions.
- Size: Approximately 3,700 square feet, with 3 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms.
The home was originally designed by Frank Wynkoop as his own personal residence and was built to withstand the relentless marine environment of Carmel Point. Wynkoop, an American architect also known for designing school buildings in Pacific Grove and San Carlos, captured the essence of coastal California living with his design. The house is often cited alongside other architectural treasures in the area, such as the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Walker House, as a prime example of historic Carmel architecture.
Frank Wynkoop's Vision: The Winged Roofline
The reason for the name "Butterfly House" is purely architectural. The structure’s most defining feature is its distinctive roof. It is a shallow-pitched gable roof that flares out dramatically on both sides, resembling the outstretched wings of a butterfly in flight.
This design was not merely aesthetic; it was a pragmatic response to the oceanfront site. The expansive overhangs provide shelter from the intense sun and coastal mist, while the structure itself is anchored directly to the rugged, rocky shoreline. This ingenious blend of form and function is what makes the Butterfly House a celebrated landmark in Monterey County.
The $29 Million Metamorphosis: Jamie Bush's Restoration
Despite its historic significance, the home required substantial work to meet the demands of modern luxury living and to shore up its 70-year-old structure against the Pacific's constant assault. The most recent owners, the Comollis, commissioned a massive, top-to-bottom renovation and restoration project led by acclaimed interior designer Jamie Bush.
This 2.5-year undertaking was a delicate balance of preservation and modernization. Bush’s team meticulously restored the home’s Mid-century modern integrity while introducing state-of-the-art systems and luxurious finishes. The goal was to honor Wynkoop’s original vision while preparing the home for the next century of coastal life.
Key elements of the restoration included:
- Structural Reinforcement: Shoring up the entire oceanfront structure to ensure its longevity on the exposed granite outcropping.
- Interior Design: A complete reimagining of the interiors by Jamie Bush, focusing on natural materials, clean lines, and a palette that complements the surrounding sea and sky.
- Luxury Amenities: The incorporation of modern amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and multiple fire features, all designed to maximize the breathtaking ocean views and create an extraordinary living space.
The result was a seamless blend of 1950s architectural genius and 21st-century opulence. The fully furnished property was then listed for sale, initially asking $40 million, a price tag that reflected its unique history, prime location on Scenic Road, and the extensive, high-end restoration.
The Record-Setting Real Estate Deal and Current Status
The listing of the Butterfly House generated significant buzz in the luxury real estate world, especially within the exclusive circles of Carmel and Pebble Beach. The sale was handled by Shelly Mitchell Lynch of Carmel Realty Company, and it was one of only four times the house had been on the market since its construction.
The latest confirmed transaction for the Butterfly House was a sale price of $29 million. This significant deal closed in mid-2023, marking it as one of the priciest real estate transactions ever recorded in the Carmel area. The sale underscored the enduring appeal of architecturally significant homes that offer unparalleled oceanfront access and privacy.
As of late 2025, the Butterfly House remains a private residence, now under the ownership of a new steward who appreciates both its historical value and its luxurious, newly restored state. Its location on Scenic Road, a highly desirable stretch of coastline, ensures that it will continue to be a subject of fascination for both architecture aficionados and those interested in high-end coastal property.
Don't Confuse the House with the Sanctuary
A common point of confusion for visitors to the Monterey Peninsula is the distinction between the private Butterfly House and the actual public butterfly viewing area. If your intention is to see thousands of migrating Monarch butterflies, you should visit the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary in neighboring Pacific Grove, which is just a short drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea.
The Monarch Grove Sanctuary is the famous wintering spot for the Western Monarch population, where the butterflies cluster in the eucalyptus and pine trees from October through February. The Butterfly House, conversely, is a private home—a stunning architectural marvel that you can only view from a distance along the public access points of Carmel Point, such as Scenic Road.
In conclusion, the Butterfly House in Carmel, California, is a triumph of Mid-century modern design by Frank Wynkoop. Its recent $29 million sale and the extensive renovation by Jamie Bush confirm its status as a timeless, priceless architectural treasure, not a tourist attraction. It is a powerful symbol of the blend of art, engineering, and luxury that defines the California Central Coast.
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