For over a decade, actor Dennis Franz was a household name thanks to his iconic role as Detective Andy Sipowicz on NYPD Blue. While fans remember him for his Emmy-winning performances, behind the scenes, Franz was also building a peaceful life far removed from the chaos of New York’s fictional 15th precinct. And now, that serene retreat is up for grabs.

Franz and his wife, Joanie, a real estate developer, purchased their slice of Montecito paradise back in 1996—coincidentally, the same year Franz won his second of four Emmy Awards. Tucked away in the  charming Hedgerow neighborhood, the couple’s coastal estate offered a welcome contrast to the gritty world of primetime crime dramas. They paid just under $2 million for the property at the time. Today, it's hitting the market for nearly $18 million.

Represented by Michael Calcagno and Tricia Pennestri of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, this Hamptons-style residence was originally a one-story farmhouse, and since then, the home has been transformed through a thoughtful renovation in collaboration with the late architect Peter Becker of Becker Henson Niksto Architects. The result? A warm, sprawling estate that marries classic East Coast sensibilities with the relaxed luxury of California’s Central Coast.

Inside

Now totaling around 9,000 square feet, the home features seven bedrooms and nine baths spread across two expansive wings. The main living spaces include a vaulted-ceiling great room with a fireplace, a vibrant green dining room that comfortably seats 10, and an entertainment lounge complete with a wet bar and eye-catching pressed-tin ceiling. A cozy breakfast nook connects to a chef-caliber kitchen, where you’ll find a large stone fireplace, butcher block island, stainless steel appliances, and a generous walk-in pantry. It’s the kind of space made for relaxed mornings and holiday dinners alike.

One of the home’s showpieces is the billiard room, with its rich wood coffered ceiling offering a stately vibe perfect for entertaining. The primary suite is equally impressive, featuring a fireplace, private balcony, and dual closets and bathrooms—a true sanctuary with both form and function.

But the magic doesn’t stop indoors.

Outside

The brown wood-shingled exterior with crisp white trim is quintessentially Montecito, blending into the natural surroundings and hidden behind hedge-lined walls and double gates. The driveway leads to a circular motor court with a tiered stone fountain as its centerpiece, creating a stately yet inviting first impression.

The nearly two-acre grounds are a private garden paradise, complete with 100-year-old heirloom rose bushes, mature fruit trees, and postcard-worthy views of the nearby mountains. Multiple outdoor terraces provide plenty of options for lounging and entertaining. There’s an outdoor BBQ station, cozy fireplaces, a well-fed swimming pool, and even two bocce ball courts shaded by charming pergolas. A detached studio/gym and three-car garage round out the offerings.

It’s easy to see why Franz decided to stay put after wrapping up NYPD Blue in 2005. After 12 seasons on the show and a decorated acting career that also included roles on Hill Street Blues, he chose to step away from the spotlight.

“I needed a break. I was just tired,” he told the New York Post in a 2015 interview. “When we finished up, I told my agents I needed a year off, and that year went by in about 10 minutes. I realized I’m pretty good at this and I’d like another year to think about what’s next—and during that second period of time, I sort of made up my mind that this is where I wanna be. I just wanted to live an enjoyable, irresponsible, spend-time-with-my-family kind of life.”

And that’s exactly what this Montecito estate represents—a life well-lived in comfort, privacy, and timeless style. Contact Michael Calcagno and Tricia Pennestri of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties to learn more or to schedule a private showing.