863 Bungalow Drive is an Inviting, Impeccably Maintained 4 Bedroom Mediterranean Corner Lot Home—A Standout Amongst Its Peers on El Segundo’s “Mansion Row”
The last year and a half shifted our priorities. While the excitement of Los Angeles‘ many offerings—world-class museums, many music venues, exquisite shopping—will never fade, there is a yearning for something away from the congestion of the city yet not so far that driving—to enjoy a night out at one of its multi-star restaurants, to the airport or to see good friends—becomes something to dread.
It would need to be in a neighborhood that has its own allure of good shops, great places to eat, and good schools, even ones that the kids could walk to on their own. And the house! The house, of course, would be gracious and spacious with all of the latest amenities, including an elevator so that visits from the grandparents would still be on the horizon for years to come.
The beachside pocket just south of Los Angeles is a hidden gem perched on the shores of Santa Monica Bay. Recognized as the aerospace capital of the world, the new home combines small-town charms with beautiful residential neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown, and unparalleled access to its big sister’s amenities, including LAX. Sports enthusiasts will swoon with the knowledge that the 2022 Super Bowl, as well as the 2028 Summer Olympics, will take place at the newly constructed SoFI Stadium.
The current homeowners, Nick Lardas and Carol Lardas, who’ve called it home for nearly twenty years ago, had been looking for a peaceful and quiet community.
“We appreciated that El Segundo was a family-oriented town. We made a lot of good friends, including our neighbors, and had great relationships with the businesses in the community. Everyone that works here takes the time to learn about you. We loved our time in El Segundo and we will miss it dearly.”
The home, situated on a corner lot on a prestigious block that realtor Stephen Pliaconis refers to as “Mansion Row” for its many gorgeous and stately homes, is ideally located. The nearby 105 freeway connects to the 405, 110, 710, and 605, putting the entire city within easy driving distance. The drive to LAX is only 10 minutes, a boon for those who are driven to satisfy their wanderlust now that travel restrictions are opening up.
But ironically, you’ll find yourself less and less willing to scratch that itch when this is your home. There’s the house itself. Built in 2002 and scrupulously kept up to date by the current owners, the Mediterranean-style house, whose calming stucco exterior and red tile roof channels the beautiful Spanish Revival-style architecture for which Southern California is famous, is plus with the latest features.
“My clients added many of the most requested smart home features including whole-home and exterior sound and Dual-Zone 5 Ton AC Compressors that are controlled by Google Nest. They also added a lot of value to the home with specific custom features,” notes Stephen Pliaconis of Palm Realy Boutique.
With a three-car garage and three generous spots outside, this is a home designed to welcome one and all. That’s underlined by its grand entry and breathtaking cathedral ceiling.
“It’s funny to say, but we had an immediate connection to this beautiful home,” remembers the Lardas. “We were fortunate to be its first owners and we brought in our own special touches to make the house feel like our home.”
That included an elevator and a backyard designed for entertaining.
“We wanted to be able to host all our family events here so we completely redesigned what was originally a plain grass backyard.”
A heated salt-water pool and a luxurious spa punctuate the beautifully landscaped space, creating the ideal backdrop for the many events that follow a family throughout the year. Here’s the setting for backyard barbecues and impromptu pool parties.
Late at night, once the children are squirreled away in their rooms, you and your spouse slip into the jacuzzi. You’ll appreciate those stolen moments of complete quiet and deep conversations on weekday afternoons. With the elementary, middle, and high schools located within walking distance, don’t be surprised if yours becomes the home where everyone ends up after school.
“Our daughter went through the wonderful school system through middle and high school and cherishes the memories that she made here,” the Lardas’ share.
“The new owners are getting great neighbors with an awesome house that we loved and cherished with many family memories.”
Adds Stephen Pliaconis, “This is a perfect home for those who love to entertain and be festive. The next owners of this home are inheriting a space that radiates great energy and tons of love.”
Stephen Pliaconis | 310-658-1749 | DRE: 02015480
Palm Realty Boutique
Photos by Chris Saldivar