Ojai Couple List Amanjai, Before They Sail the World

Ojai, California, is known for its small-town community feel, art events, farmers markets, hiking trails, and especially the “Pink Moment,” when the sunset lights up the nearby Topatopa Mountains in a deep pink almost every evening. It happens because while most of California’s valleys run north to south, Ojai lies in a unique east-west valley, and the sun sets straight on the mountain face while the rest of the sky is already fading. The phenomenon is visible on most evenings from any location with a clear view to the east, and it lasts about five to fifteen minutes.

Something else unique in Ojai is Amanjai, an estate where Topatopa Mountain views, privacy, and home design converge in a way that is rarely seen. Mark Sutherland, CEO of Sutherland Presses, and his wife, Isabella Pia Sutherland, CEO/designer of Milan-based luxury handbag atelier MAGRÍ, are the power couple that created Amanjai, but now plan to set off on a new adventure, sailing the world aboard their newly commissioned Palm Beach Motor Yacht. Amanjai has been listed for sale at $16.5 million. 

Amanjai is the couple’s tribute to the late Howard Backen and his signature Napa Valley aesthetic. Before construction began, Mark toured three of Backen’s homes to immerse himself in the architect’s design philosophy, an experience that helped shape the vision he and Isabella ultimately brought to life with their contractor.

Set on nearly four acres, the gated estate is a private retreat. The 4,324-square-foot, single-story main residence embodies Backen’s signature style, balancing dramatic architectural elements with intimate spaces and a warm contemporary California aesthetic. Inside, soaring 20-foot ceilings, heated brushed-oak floors, and French limestone flooring that extends seamlessly from indoors to outdoors to create an effortless sense of flow. The chef’s kitchen is equipped with premium appliances from Sub-Zero, Miele, and Wolf. Ten-foot pocket doors disappear completely, opening the expansive living spaces to lush gardens inspired by the Italian countryside.

Conceived as a private luxury compound, the estate encompasses seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms across a main residence, two guest houses, a detached gym, a creative studio, and a garage. A 70’ resort-style pool serves as the centerpiece of the grounds, which also include a sauna, outdoor shower, BBQ pavilion, citrus and olive groves, and integrated audio throughout the property. Designed with self-sufficiency in mind, the estate is powered by an off-grid Tesla solar system and supported by a private well, while Savant home automation provides seamless modern convenience.

Set within one of Ojai's most coveted and discreet enclaves, it is down the street from the prestigious Thatcher School, the oldest boarding school west of the Mississippi, and the Krishnamurti Center, a renowned retreat and study center dedicated to the teachings of philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti. Downtown Ojai is just a short drive away, offering a charming village atmosphere, independent boutiques, art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, wellness culture, and the iconic outdoor bookstore Bart's Books. Surrounded by Topatopa Mountain views, it features a distinctly laid-back California lifestyle with no chain stores in its historic core.

Ojai’s natural beauty and secluded tranquility have made it a long-time retreat for artists and musicians. A few of the town’s notable residents include Anthony Hopkins, Jason Segel, Reese Witherspoon, and Jerry Bruckheimer.

The listing is held by Johnathan Pach of Compass Beverly Hills.

Photo Credit: Anthony Barcello