Nestled on John Street, this beloved family home stands as a testament to refined coastal living. A Mediterranean-style estate, with sprawling ocean views and a vast backyard oasis, this home has been the heart of the Schmitt family for nearly 25 years.

The Schmitt family moved to the Hill Section in 2001, drawn to the community’s charm and proximity to the beach, local schools, and downtown Manhattan Beach. With 6,754 square feet of living space, including six bedrooms, the home has provided a perfect sanctuary for the family over the years.

The home has seen the Schmitt family grow, with three children who graduated from Marymount High School, Loyola High School, and Mira Costa High School. The family’s golden retriever, Brodie, was a well-known figure in the neighborhood, often seen on walks along the green belt and the strand. It’s been a retreat for Shellie and Michael Schmitt and their family, who were active community members and parishioners at American Martyrs.

While it’s hard to pick a favorite part of the house, Jessica fondly remembers the top floor as a family favorite. "The living room and dining room on the top floor are especially special to us. We often shared meals together, and the sunsets over the Pacific were breathtaking," they shared. The expansive windows in these rooms let in the light, offering the perfect spot to take in the iconic coastal sunsets.

Describing the home’s style, Jessica notes its Mediterranean influence, which seamlessly blends into the coastal surroundings. The estate sits on an unusually large lot, featuring a stately residence with a magnificent backyard that includes a separate guest house. "It’s the epitome of refined coastal living," she said.

One of the home's most outstanding features is its ability to connect indoor and outdoor living spaces. Several French doors open from the interior into the lush courtyard, creating a flow between the two. The design of the home was thoughtfully planned with two key elements in mind: fostering quality family time and providing a welcoming space for large gatherings and entertaining.

Designing a home to fit the needs of a growing family isn’t without its challenges. For the Schmitts, the biggest hurdle was ensuring there was enough storage for a family of five. The solution? "Thoughtful closets, cubbies, and storage rooms scattered throughout the house have provided hidden places to store all of life’s necessities," Jessica shared.

The home has hosted countless memorable events, including birthday parties, engagement celebrations, community fundraisers, and even a wedding. "It was built to bring people together and it’s the perfect venue for thoughtful entertaining."

As the Schmitt family prepares to move on from this special place, there’s a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. "It’s been a beautiful family space, and while we are sad to move on, yet we are confident the next family will find similar value in the memories this home can foster."

The Schmitt family home isn’t just a house—it’s a legacy of cherished moments and a place where family and friends have always come together. For those fortunate enough to call it home in the future, it will undoubtedly offer the same sense of comfort, joy, and warmth that the Schmitt family has enjoyed for nearly a quarter of a century.