Market
La Dolce Vita
Elegant “Casa Lago” –a secluded, gated Tuscan-style villa overlooking L.A.’s Stone Canyon Reservoir–offers the allure of Lake Como living
Written by Wendy Bowman | Photography Courtesy of Matthew Momberger
Close your eyes and picture yourself relaxing on a peaceful terrace in the charming Italian city of Bellagio, while peering out over the sky-blue waters of Lake Como. Now, open your eyes to the fact that globetrotting superstar George Clooney is not the only one who should have all the fun of soaking up a stellar waterside panorama.
With this new upper Bel-Air estate set alongside L.A.’s version of Lake Como— the private Stone Canyon Reservoir—you too can spend your days sipping libations from the comfort of your very own Italian-inspired villa as palm trees sway idly in the breeze. All of this heavenly reverie—complete with breathtaking 300-degree blue water vistas and vibrant hillside gardens to boot—can be had for $32.5 million.
As Bel-Air’s closest property to the reservoir’s waterfront—at 1940 Bel-Air Road, on the end of a cul-de-sac—the views are certainly one of its best features. But the platform from which to survey the scenery is pretty stupendous as well.
Created by Marmara Development Group, the three-story home is seamlessly connected via an elevator and smarthome technology with the majority of the rooms leading to magnificent terraces and loggias. Inside, one finds almost 21,000 square feet of lavish living space featuring—just for starters—eight bedrooms (including an impressive upstairs master wing with a kitchenette, his-and-hers baths, and stairs leading to a private outdoor infinity pool). Amid the exquisite European-inspired architectural details, one doesn’t have to look hard to unearth every modern amenity imaginable—think a glass-enclosed 1,060-bottle wine cellar; billiards room with wet bar; 12-seat home theater; gym, sauna and steam shower; and mosaic-tiled indoor pool and spa featuring lighting effects and stained glass skylights above.
Outdoors, a second infinity pool with cascading fountains and spa beckons all to take a respite while enjoying sweeping canyon, city and ocean landscapes.
Meanwhile, hillside paths meander through secluded gardens rife with roses, lavender, and citrus and olive groves. No doubt about it, this is indeed Italia-like resort living at its finest…right in L.A.’s backyard.
Presented by AARON KIRMAN, ALEK CARRERA and LOUIS EVANS of AAROE ESTATES AND WILLIAMS AND WILLIAMS OF HILTON AND HYLAND
List Price $32.5 MILLION
1940 Bel-Air Road, Los Angeles, CA 90077
The Price is Right
Cavalleri Malibu’s picturesque location on a 10-acre gated reserve allows residents to easily—and affordably— enjoy the quintessential Malibu lifestyle
Written by Wendy Bowman | Photography Courtesy of Cavalleri
In July 2016, San Francisco-based Pacific Eagle Holdings set out to create a new luxury condominium community on a 10- acre site that previously served as home to the Villa Malibu rental property. The real estate management company’s goal was to offer homeowners the amenities of a luxurious resort with the ease of full-service condo ownership—all with an eye-catching price tag of less than $2 million.
Emerging on the transformed site, Cavalleri Malibu (cavallerimalibu.com) is a completely renovated collection of 68 two-story, three-story and penthouse homes, with the first two of four buildings set for completion in early 2017.
Designed by award-winning design firm Edmonds + Lee, also based in San Francisco, the classic Spanish revival-style residences start at $998,000 and range in size from 1,577 square feet to more than 2,200 square feet, with two to three bedrooms and two to three baths.
“Cavalleri is the only luxury product on the market at this price point, so it offers a great value to Malibu residents that they can’t find anywhere else,” says Hans Galland, senior vice president of development for Pacific Eagle. “Cavalleri fits the needs of successful artists and creatives, alumni and graduate students at nearby Pepperdine University, and active young families that enjoy outdoor recreation and a top-tier school district.”
Situated at 6487 Cavalleri Road—on a 10-acre gated reserve, amid rolling hills near Zuma Beach and Point Dume—the community is rife with nearby amenities. Homeowners can enjoy outdoor pursuits such as surfing, hiking and biking, alongside premier shopping and dining destinations including the Malibu Country Mart and Lumber Yard.
Meanwhile, the community itself will serve as the ultimate port of call when it comes to wellness and tranquility.
“Owners will find a quiet destination and plenty of outlets for meditation, yoga and contemplation on the property and surrounding reserve,” says Galland. Among Cavalleri’s offerings: a 52-foot pool; a cutting-edge fitness center; an outdoor dining pavilion; yoga terrace; two tennis courts; a great lawn for outdoor activities; dog parks; and a meditation area set amid lush grounds designed by Santa Monica based landscape architect Pamela Burton.
As for the residences, expect an open and airy feel with high ceilings and a seamless flow from the indoors to expansive outdoor terraces, along with stylish and eco-friendly touches such as European hardwood flooring throughout. Notable amenities include top-of-theline gourmet kitchens with professional Bertazzoni, Thermador and Bosch appliances, gray Oak Mesa Matte cabinetry by Bedford and white quartz Silestone countertops with a waterfall edge; sumptuous spa-like bathrooms boasting Italian-made porcelain stoneware flooring and wall tiles, freestanding soaking tubs, and Hansgrohe and Duravit fixtures; and open-air kitchens with dining for 14.
“The open, modern aesthetic of the floor plans is unique, as the other condos on the market at this price point were built prior to 2000 and don’t offer similar layouts,” says Galland. Homes reflecting the quintessential Malibu lifestyle, at a realistic price point? Bank on it.
Musical Manses
Written by Wendy Bowman
These show-stopping properties are more than befitting of the industry icons that have called them home
Producer’s Palace
Hitting the market for $15.5 million is the dazzling Brentwood residence of veteran music executive/producer Ron Fair (mentor to superstars from Christina Aguilera to The Black Eyed Peas) and his wife, singer/songwriter/actress Stefanie Ridel (formerly of the girl group Wild Orchid). “This estate is one of the most unique and spectacular properties in the city,” says listing agent Billy Rose of The Agency.
“The architecture is terrific; the grounds are magical and provide destinations and spaces for all sorts of experiences; the location is prime; and four additional guest houses/structures give an incredible optionality to a broad cross-section of potential buyers.” Situated at 499 Halvern Drive, the gated, plantation-style compound has been lovingly renovated and restored and features five buildings—including two guest casitas outfitted as separate recording and broadcast studios; a gym; glass-walled office; and main house—all with a total of nine bedrooms and 16 baths. The main house features almost 11,000 square feet of living space highlighted by six bedrooms (including a sumptuous master suite with dual closets and baths); three large-scale family/living rooms; a massive dining room sporting a magnificent glass ceiling; chef’s kitchen with adjacent catering kitchen; and black-and-white tiled lounge with walk-in bar. The expansive resort-style grounds encompass almost an acre and are replete with a pool and spa; outdoor dining area with an enclosed kitchen; a rose garden; pond; greenhouse; and top-of-the-line playground.
photos courtesy of The Agency
Unforgettable Indeed
This rare double unit at The Grand Westwood Condominiums in the Wilshire Corridor was home to the late Grammy Award-winning singer Natalie Cole. Now on the market for $2.995 million, the palatial residence occupies units 1004 and 1005 on the 10th floor, offering panoramic views of the city and hills. Built in 1980, the interiors have been fully remodeled and feature almost 3,600 square feet of living area. Among the highlights are four bedrooms— including a luxurious master wing boasting an oversized bedroom with a sitting area and terrace, dual baths (hers with a soaking tub and makeup table, wet bar, office/den and walk-in dressing rooms), along with a gourmet kitchen and an outdoor living room. The residence also comes with all of the perks of condo living, including a 24-hour concierge, valet parking, conference room, gym and pool.
“I’m incredibly honored to be representing the Natalie Cole Estate,” says Michelle Ficarra of The Agency. “My co-listing agent, Joe Babajian, and I sold the property to Natalie in 2003 and it was one of the highlights of my career. She loved the convenience and privacy of high-rise living, the panoramic views and the central location of the Corridor. We are hopeful to pass it on to someone who loves it as much as she did.”
photos courtesy of The Agency
Shooting Star Lists Home
Pro basketball player Chris Paul is selling his L.A. mansion for $11.495 million. Found at 2180 Stratford Circle, in the prestigious guard-gated community of Bel-Air Crest, the contemporary Mediterranean retreat truly has everything imaginable, according to listing agent Ikem Chukumerije of Westside Premier Estates. Among the highlights of the 12,000-plus-squre-foot residence are breathtaking canyon views; a commercial elevator; Crestron home automation; camera system; subterranean wine cellar with storage for up to 500 bottles; 16-seat home theater; billiard’s room; gym with sauna; covered outdoor living/entertainment area; and pool and spa…just to name a few. “The subterranean parking that fits up to 10 cars is a showing favorite,” adds Chukumerije. “The layout is ideal and perfect for a small or big family, and the security of the community and privacy that it brings is also one of the best features.”
photos courtesy of Ikem Chukumerije / SportsRelocation.com
If you happen to be in the market for a countryside estate—complete with L.A. County’s largest vineyard and winery—then Agua Dulce in Santa Clarita is for you…
“This is a fantastic opportunity for wine enthusiasts, entrepreneurs or just families looking for a fabulous weekend retreat,” says Dario Svidler, who is co-listing the property with Robert Morton, both of Partners Trust, for $12.8 million. Belonging to wine industry veteran and Bel-Air resident Barry Goldfarb, the estate sits on 90 acres at 9640 Sierra Highway, just 35 miles outside of L.A., and includes a vineyard with six grape varietals; livestock ranch; 5,000-square-foot Colonial-style home; guest house; wine barrel warehouse; and winery, tasting room and retail space. The buyer also would inherit more than $1.15 million in inventory. “I’m very familiar with Hollywood’s passion for wine, and this is a wonderful opportunity to own your own label and winery and to show it off to your celebrity friends, without traveling three hours,” says Morton.
photo courtesy of Partners Trust
Here’s your chance to own a piece of history…
Christie’s Auction House is selling The Private Collection of President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan. A live auction is set for September 21 and 22 in New York, with an online chance to purchase some truly unique pieces running from September 19-27. The sale includes 700-plus items from the Ronald and Nancy’s post-Presidential home in Bel-Air—estimated in value from $200 to $50,000—including books, memorabilia, furniture, décor and fine art, many objects of which were used by the President and First Lady during their time in the White House. Among the highlights: a signed fragment of the Berlin Wall and a football singed, “Win One For the Gipper Ronald Reagan.” Proceeds benefit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. For details, visit Christies.com.
photo © Christie’s Images Ltd. 2016
Cosmopolitan in The Canyon
A New Rolling Hills Ranch Home Makes For A Contemporary Break From Tradition
Written by Constance Dunn | Photography by Paul Jonason | Presented by Raju Chhabria | List Price $10,900,000
“My goal with a contemporary home is to remember that it is a home. It needs to be inviting, it needs to be warm—but it doesn’t mean you can’t have dynamic spaces.”
For Palos Verdes architect Criss Gunderson, this stylistic balancing act between domestic and striking, is resolved in grand fashion with one of his latest projects, a 9,100-square-foot spread nestled along the peaceful canyons of Rolling Hills. In tandem with the size of the home is the generous lot of over nine acres upon which it sits. It’s one of the largest parcels in Rolling Hills, a private community on the Palos Verdes peninsula where homes are spaced at a nice distance and horses amble along leafy equestrian paths.
A MAST AND ITS WINGS
Sumptuous yet streamlined. Powerfully elegant while also being approachable. Easy for going about the business of everyday living. These are dualities that are difficult to achieve in any case, yet even more so when local building codes are rather curbed. “Rolling Hills requires a great deal of any homeowner,” says Gunderson. “They have some very strong requirements.” (Among them, homes must be no higher than one story, must be of the ranch or hacienda variety, and must have white exteriors.) Despite this, Gunderson, who has been designing in the area for decades, produced a singular and sleek home that, though wholly au courant, possesses the feel of a classic.
The type of luxury that comes with a grand scale can often be cold, loose and rambling. Not here, due to the architect’s keen sense of measure. “I very much enjoy the proportions and the balance of the home,” says Gunderson, when asked for his favorite aspects of it. “Since it is such a large home, I wanted to make sure that the overall design wasn’t really busy with wings or elements that would make it too busy. My approach was to take a simple solution of a main wing with very simply proportioned wings coming off the main mast.”
The strategy works beautifully, creating an interior atmosphere that is consistently voluminous—and even in its temperament, due to being outfitted throughout in fine materials, whether it’s the wine room, gym or just a powder room. There are glowing inlaid fireplaces on the walls of the family room and the living room. Smooth hulks of smooth Calcatta Gold along the kitchen counters and island. Dark textured wood cabinetry that slides open at a touch. Planks of American walnut, rich and glossy, that flow across the floor.
FRIENDLY CONTEMPORARY
In other words, no room is given short shrift, either in materials or size, due to its perceived lack of unimportance in the grand scheme of things. The master suite is, fittingly, a standout, with fairly massive his-and-her bathrooms and walk-in closets, and twin doors that open onto an outdoor sitting area with fireplace. Guest rooms are well-proportioned too, with walk-in closets and bathroom suites each sporting a different palate of tiles and finishes. The wine storage is a spacious room decked with stonework and custom wood cabinetry to hold your stock, and even the garage is air-conditioned and big enough for half a dozen cars.
Cues to the home’s identity are tipped before entering, starting at the generous rectangular driveway inlaid with stone and desert landscaping. There’s a long-running gable roof with overhanging eaves and exposed beams. The creamy hued exterior plays against pale-stone columns that frame an imposing covered entranceway. The foyer, which was painstakingly designed, serves as a gorgeous Hello. There are glossy marble floors and 25-foot ceilings, along with modern block columns and a mood-making glow of sun and light via inlaid ceiling lamps and a generous skylight. Even from here, the views jut past the master living room and through to the canyon and twinkling city lights.
A LIVING GALLERY
To establish an atmosphere of warmth, the home’s sophisticated finishes and features are broken up by light and nature, which seep through at every turn, due to Gunderson’s careful positioning of windows, rooms and angles. In the wing, where the kitchen and family room are found, a wall slips away to join the indoors with the outdoors—in this case, a spacious pool and play deck with an al fresco cooking station. The area is freshly landscaped with palm trees and a tidy yard of green grass, and there’s an ample sauna and a full bathroom.
This juxtaposition—between luxury and fresh air—is the hallmark of this home, with the former amplified by a number of streamlined spaces and transitional rooms that can transform the home into a living art gallery. “This home is ideal for an art lover to showcase his or her collection,” notes realtor Raju Chhabria. Grand hallways, lined with canvases, connect the wings of the home. Sculptures stand in side nooks, and an elegant viewing room links the master bedroom wing to yet another spacious wing, where four of the home’s six bedroom suites reside.
The home has been designed so skillfully, that it could function as a collector’s grand gallery just as easily as it could shape shift to a versatile stage for a social hostess—the formal, separate dining room is just one of the spaces that’s ideal for sizable gatherings—or, a family home with a dedicated children’s wing. And it’s been carefully sited on the hillside to exploit its high vantage for maximum views of the California landscape, too. Whether luxuriating poolside or indoors, one is always surrounded by a calm panorama of green trees on the surrounding hillside, rambling earth of the canyon below and just far enough away, the spread of the city. All in all, a poignant setting for this home, a work of art in itself, brought to life by a thoughtful and harmonious mesh of function, character and structure.
Atop the Gated Knoll
Rihanna’s lavish Pacific Palisades mansion sings with style
Written by Wendy Bowman | Photography Courtesy of Melissa Di Meglio
An exquisite architectural mansion more than befitting the magnetism of its former owner, singer/songwriter Rihanna, is now available in Pacific Palisades for a cool $14.59 million— complete with interiors showcasing the finest in materials and craftsmanship paired with elaborate outdoor environs fit for a king… or pop queen, in this case.
Situated on almost an acre of land atop a private, gated knoll—near the exclusive Riviera Country Club, and just minutes from Santa Monica and Malibu—the two-story residence built in 2009 is highlighted by special touches throughout, including travertine flooring; custom doors, millwork and built-ins; 14-foot ceilings; designer lighting; and floor-to-ceiling glass walls.
At almost 11,000 square feet, the home’s warm color palette, personalized rooms and layout render it ideal for relaxing and entertaining alike. Featured are seven bedrooms, including a sumptuous master suite with a two-way fireplace, sitting area, large walk-in closet with makeup area, patio and luxurious spa-like bath overlooking the pool. Two additional bedrooms double as a game room and home theater, respectively. Yet other show-stopping features include a family room with walk-in bar and a chef’s kitchen sporting a large center island and professional-grade appliances that flows into a dining room with seating for 16 and an adjacent wine refrigerator.
The outdoor environs definitely steal the show here, however. Think a spacious rooftop deck boasting an amazing putting green, lounge and grill area; along with a level back yard with a massive patio space for entertaining, a resort style pool with cascading fountains and covered waterfall spa, a grill and bar, and 6,000-square-foot garden. From the inside out, this home indeed shines bright like a diamond.
Presented by BEN BACAL, JASON PETELER and DAVID FERRUGIO of THE BEN BACAL ESTATES TEAM, RODEO REALTY
List Price $14.59 MILLION
932 Rivas Canyon Road, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Market Report
Written by Wendy Bowman
THE REAL MCCOY
Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick has scored a French chateau-inspired home at 3747 Winford Drive—in Tarzana’s exclusive guard-gated enclave of Mulholland Park, at the base of the Santa Monica Mountains—for $2.8 million. According to listing agent Tony Truisi of Rodeo Realty, the property’s first-rate features include an impressive entrance foyer sporting a regal wrought-iron double staircase and backyard amenities befitting any professional athlete, complete with a lighted basketball court, saltwater Pebble Tec pool with waterslide and spa, built-in barbecue and fire pit.
Constructed in 1998, the residence now showcases more than 6,300 square feet of open, completely updated living space on two levels. Among the highlights are five bedrooms (with the spacious master suite featuring a separate retreat, fireplace, walk-in closet, and relaxing balcony overlooking the pool and yard), along with seven baths, a chef’s kitchen that opens to a family room with walk-in bar, formal living and dining rooms, and den/office.
After missing the 2015 season due to torn ACL and MCL ligaments in his right knee, the veteran player returned to practice in Oxnard in early August. He’s currently engaged to reality TV star and Mint Swim designer Draya Michele, and is seeking a buyer for his Woodland Hills home on the market for $1.795 million.
photos courtesy of Ariel One
NOTABLE SALE
California real estate law firm Cox, Castle & Nicholson has announced the closing of its client’s acquisition of the Playboy Mansion. The firm represented the buyer, next-door neighbor Daren Metropoulos, a principal at the private-equity firm Metropoulos & Co., in the sale. The $100 million purchase price for the 5-acre property in Holmby Hills is believed to be the highest ever paid for a single-family home in L.A.
Originally designed in 1927 and purchased by Playboy Enterprises in 1971 for $1 million, the property includes a 22,000-square-foot gothic Tudor house, several additional structures (including a game house) and a private zoo. Metropoulos bought his current home next door to the Playboy Mansion from Hugh Hefner in 2009. He plans to eventually connect the two properties to form one private compound.
OLYMPIC TIES
With the recent Summer Games, we thought it would be fun to tell you where one of California’s top athletes lives. According to RISMedia, basketball all-star Diana Taurasi— voted one of the WNBA’s Top 15 Players of All Time in 2011—enjoys living in a three bedroom, four-bath residence in Manhattan Beach. Built in 2014, the Plantation-style beach house sits on a hill just four doors from the beach and offers gorgeous panoramic views of the ocean.
End of Summer at Manhattan Beach Pier
HUNTING FOR A BUYER
Entrepreneur Andrew Banks—best known for the TV show Shark Tank Australia, where he’s invested in products from Bottlepops to the Hamdog— has placed his palatial Beverly Hills estate on the market for $17.495 million. Found at 808 N. Alpine Drive, in the community’s prestigious flats neighborhood, the property was fully updated in 2012. “The style, finishes and every detail in the house have been completed to perfection,” says James Harris, who is listing the property with his Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles co-star Davis Parnes, both of The Agency.
“This incredible private compound also offers superb indoor/outdoor living, with every room throughout offering a terrace/balcony or doors that open to the outside.” Coming in at 10,522 square feet, the home features seven bedrooms—including a luxe master retreat boasting a private sitting room with built-ins, fireplace and terrace, along with an adjoining bedroom with an additional fireplace, terrace and dual baths (including one containing a sauna, dressing area and dual walk-in closets).
Among the other highlights are an eye-catching two-story entrance foyer with a double staircase; music room with walk-in bar; gourmet kitchen; office; play/family room; home theater; gym/ yoga studio; temperature-controlled wine cellar; elevator; and remote-controlled smart system for air conditioning, lighting, pool and spa. The grounds are spread out on almost half an acre of land showcasing a large grassy yard, pool and spa, pool bath/shower with sauna, outdoor kitchen with built-in barbecue, covered patios, and a full guest house with kitchen, living room and bedroom/bath. A gated, double-entry motor court and four-car garage round out this home’s special appeal.
photos courtesy of The Agency
Mediterranean Oasis
Live the resort lifestyle on a sprawling private estate mere blocks from the beach
Written by Joclene Davey | Photography by Paul Jonason | Presented by Terri Tsuchida, Re/Max Estate Properties | Offered at $9,995,000
One would be lucky to find a private luxury estate, just steps from the sand, with a tropical paradise abiding in the backyard. Such a property does exist, in the Hermosa sand section. Tucked away in the private Valley Park Avenue neighborhood, this Tuscan-Mediterranean villa has everything a growing family could hope for.
“Being this close to the beach, with this type of property, is a true rarity,” states Terri Tsuchida, listing agent for the home. A rarity indeed, one sitting on a half-acre lot with 6,500 square feet of living space, a guest house and a backyard outfitted as an entertainer’s dreamland. With the main house containing six bedrooms and six baths, every inch of the well-detailed, completely custom property is crafted with superior quality.
Although boasting a largely Mediterranean aesthetic, with its stucco, terra cotta roof and wrought iron touches, this amazing family home still has a clean, open-air sensibility; it’s light and bright. When walking into the dramatic open space with sweeping curved staircase to the left of the entry, one notices sky-high vaulted ceilings above featuring wood beams, skylights and oodles of windows. “The architect really took advantage of all this height and openness, where most would fill the space with another room. After all, space is a luxury,” shares Tsuchida.
Stepping into the home’s lovely open living room, one is met with wooden casement windows and glass French doors to enjoy views of the tropical oasis in the backyard. Inside the home, a stone fireplace complements the warm-toned floors and crisp-white walls throughout. Only the best details are featured in the home: wood-sash windows, heavy oil-rubbed bronze fixtures, lit gallery alcoves and an integrated sound system that works inside and outside. Across the hall is a powder room with stone counters and travertine floors that mirror the balance of the bathrooms. There’s also a large mudroom with plenty of storage and a built-in space for an extra refrigerator.
Next is the home theater, with all the bells and whistles evoking Broadway’s best venues. The Launchpad, resembling a small iPad, controls media, mood lighting and more. Also included is a stage, architectural pillars and draped theater curtains for a live play. Across the hallway is a generous guest bedroom with a glass French door leading outside, which also includes an en-suite bath. This space could function as a home office, too.
Back through the hallway is the chef’s kitchen, an open space that includes a huge island with Viking range, veggie prep sink and breakfast bar. Perfect for large families are the dual dishwashers, dual ovens and built-in refrigerator. Just off the kitchen is the walk-in pantry and breakfast room with a door leading out to the backyard. The breakfast room was previously used as a kids’ study and homework area, but also makes a great artist’s painting room with its ample light. Lastly, a must-have in any family kitchen, is the built-in desk area for controlling mail and paperwork.
Adjacent, the open dining area is expansive with oversized lighting fixtures and Brazilian cherry wood floors found throughout the common areas of the residence.
Upstairs, one enters the family room or “kids’ gallery,” which includes a large TV viewing area with built-in wood cabinets.
Skylights brighten the space, in which children can gather before heading to their surrounding bedrooms. The level is well planned, with its adult area across the almost floating catwalk on the opposite side of the home. In this area are four bedrooms, two of which are connected by Jack-and-Jill bathrooms, with the remaining two ensuite.
All rooms are spacious with lots of light, large closets and hardwood floors. One of the bedrooms is across the hall and has glass French doors that open up to the expansive upstairs balcony.
The two upstairs living spaces are connected by the aforementioned catwalk, which wraps around to the front of the home and to another outdoor deck. “All this openness and natural light is crucial space, and it gives a certain tranquility to this large home; it gives it a certain grace,” explains Tsuchida.
After passing the home’s discreetly located laundry room, one enters the master suite. Grand in size, this brilliant retreat features vaulted beamed ceilings, tons of windows, glass French doors and a dual-sided stone fireplace. Despite its size, the space has a cozy appeal due to warm wood trims, beams and stonework. An additional perk is the walk-in closet with windows that make for great lighting. The en-suite bath is tremendous, containing a Jacuzzi tub, vaulted ceilings and separate water closet. Just outside, the stone patio wraps around the entire backside of the home; it connects the lower level via a spiral staircase.
While the home is spectacular and meticulously maintained, its outdoor environ is an oasis. The large, lagoon-like salt-water pool is wonderfully inviting, as is the spa with cascading waterfall. Sure to please the kids is the water slide nestled into the tropical landscape, zip-line, sports court and lifeguard tower-styled playhouse. Among the long list of amenities here is the fire pit around which to gather after surfing, and the stacked stone fireplace in the gazebo. This setting invites one to walk along the stone pathways over lush green grass while admiring bountiful fruit trees, a beautifully manicured lawn and other highlights, including a large outdoor cooking station with grill, warming drawers, gas cook top and fridge. Serve family and guests at the eat-in bar while enjoying the tropical surrounds.
Equally noteworthy is that the backyard ascends up a gradual hill, making it ideal for watching little ones play at every outdoor feature from almost anywhere.
Mere steps from the pool and opposite from the main house, a guest house with a large bedroom and en-suite bath welcomes visitors. Glass doors and windows invite light in while one looks out to take in the beauty of the property. Attached is a bonus room that is currently used as a kids’ playroom but could be an office or pool room. Completing the guest quarter is a large patio area for relaxing.
Ideally located within walking distance to the beach, Hermosa shops and restaurants, as well as to Hermosa Valley Elementary School, the Tuscan-Mediterranean compound of 1807 Valley Park Avenue offers a truly rare experience for the Beach Cities: a place to live luxuriously, and privately, in spectacular, resort-style splendor.
Westside Market Report
Written by Wendy Bowman
Actor Paul Wesley—best known as Stefan Salvatore on the TV show The Vampire Diaries—has handed over his compelling 3,240-square-foot modern home in Studio City Hills for $2.3 million, gleaning more than the asking price of $2.245 million. Situated at 3649 Berry Drive, the two level showpiece was built in 2010 and designed by L.A. architect Jay Vanos, complete with special touches including walnut cabinetry, custom drapes and bamboo flooring. “This is the perfect architectural,” says listing agent Carl Gambino of Westside Estate Agency. “The main living room is fantastic; it has exceptionally high ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace and massive windows that soak in the light. The private hiking trail and killer views were also a big draw.”
The residence also features four bedrooms (including a master suite with remote-controlled blinds, a fireplace and private patio), four baths, a TV/theater room, an office, a library, and chef’s kitchen sporting Thermador and Wolf appliances. There’s even a gated intercom entry, an indoor/outdoor Sonos sound system and a 2,000-pound stone fountain imported from Asia.
photos courtesy of Rachel Hughes
One lucky buyer has snapped up 47 feet of prime Malibu beachfront property owned by Eve Plumb, who portrayed Jan on the popular 1970s TV show The Brady Bunch. Located at 27200 Escondido Beach Road—just a short walk away from Geoffrey’s Restaurant— the property’s $3.9 million sale price includes the sitcom star’s three bedroom, 850-square-foot furnished beach bungalow, built in 1950, along with the right to contract with L.A.’s Meis Architects to complete a custom three bedroom, 3,500-square-foot modern masterpiece—with cutting-edge touches such as a cantilevered concrete core floating above floor-to-ceiling glass, retractable moon roof and car stacker for several luxury vehicles.
photos courtesy of Brian Thomas Jones
renderings courtesy of Meis Architects
The two-story Spanish-style home of stage and screen actor Brent Spiner—best known for his role as the android, Lieutenant Commander Data, in the TV series Star Trek: The Next Generation—is available for $10.995 million in Malibu. “It’s located in the highly desirable enclave of Point Dume, with ocean and mountain views,” says listing agent Chris Cortazzo of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. “It also has deeded rights to one of the most exclusive beaches in Malibu.” But the special appeal doesn’t stop there, he says. “There’s a long, elegant driveway approaching the house, with beautiful landscaping including an assortment of fruit trees and flowers,” Cortazzo adds. “Then the feel of the house is so nice; it’s one open family plan, from the dining room to the family room and kitchen.
It’s a perfect blend of architectural and lifestyle.” Built in 1960, the home features 5,000-plus square feet of living space highlighted by three bedrooms (including a second-floor, owner’s retreat with a fireplace, an ocean view deck and luxurious bath with spa tub and shower); a living room with tiled fireplace; family room with quadruple French doors, wood-beamed ceiling and river rock fireplace; and vintage-style gourmet kitchen complete with professional-grade appliances, massive butcher block island and copper countertops. The lush grounds also are impressive, with a grotto-inspired waterfall pool and spa, terraced gardens, fountains, and numerous spots (like a plant-covered loggia) ideal for dining and relaxing.
photos courtesy of Simon Berlin
Here’s a chance to snag a Hollywood Hills West property once owned by none other than comedian and actor Groucho Marx. Occupying a sizable parcel at 1277 Sunset Plaza Drive, the classic East Coast traditional was built in 1935 and has since been completely updated and expanded with approximately 3,700 square feet of living space. “The master suite is phenomenal, with an office, his and her walk-in closets, and a gorgeous bathroom with the most elegant toilet closet ever,” says Charlie Schuster, who is co-listing the home for $4.549 million with Brent Watson, both of Compass. “There is a pool with a waterfall in the back and a man-cave where Groucho could hang with his buddies and smoke cigars.” Other highlights of the gated, two-story residence include formal dining and living rooms, a wet bar and chef’s kitchen.
photo courtesy of Linda Kasian
Supermodel Rachel Hunter’s updated 1930s English Country mansion also is up for sale in Hollywood Hills West for just under $5 million. Perched at 1644 N. Crescent Heights, right above Sunset Strip and Chateau Marmont Hotel, the gated two-story property features 5,000 square feet of living area highlighted by five bedrooms (including the master suite with a fireplace, ceramic tiled loggia with views of downtown L.A., large walk-in closets—one designed solely for shoes— and a gorgeous bathroom with dual sinks and a huge steam shower and bath). Other standout features include an eat-in kitchen with stainless-steel appliances; dining room and living room, both with fireplaces and French doors for the ultimate in indoor/outdoor living; and substantial finished basement. Additionally, the 12,000-plus-square-foot lot showcases a secluded pool and spa, garden and outdoor dining area. “I love that the house has charm, character and peace and privacy,” says listing agent Annie Challis of Compass.
photo courtesy of Pierre Galant
Dramatic Gesture
Sweeping views of stunning canyon country are the starring attraction in this Southern Utah home
Written by Alexandria Abramian | Photography Courtesy of Chris Odekerken
When Chris Odekerken was deciding whether to purchase a more than 1,200-acre property nestled between Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks in Southern Utah, he hired a plane to tour the dramatic landscape. The jaw-dropping views easily helped to make up his mind. Next choice? Deciding where to site the home he would eventually build in the mostly road-less area. For this mission, Odekerken spent days hiking the land, until he staked a claim on a pristine perch on a canyon rim. “This is a huge area and there was nothing out here, so I started hiking on all of the rims until I found this,” says Odekerken, referring to the prime spot where his 2,200-square-foot home now sits.
Originally from the Netherlands, Odekerken first came to the United States when he was 22 years old and was instantly attracted to the rugged beauty of Southern Utah. But it wasn’t until a few decades later, after he had sold a successful bakery business to Mission Foods in 2004, that he was finally able to realize his dream of living there. The building process took no less than three years, and involved many drives along what started out as a “very primitive” 9-mile road that ends at Kiva Lodge, the whimsical retreat that Odekerken created.
Drawing inspiration from kivas, the round, ceremonial buildings typically used by Native Americans in the Southwest, Odekerken enlisted architect Bob Kaczowka of Marina del Rey-based Mesa Design. “We only needed a few words, he then made four sketches. Then we worked out one together and he finalized the design into a great translation of where I wanted to go,” says Odekerken, who channeled both native Amercan and Mexican influences in the home.
Building the residence wasn’t the only challenge, however. When it came time to decorating it, as well as the stand-alone bunkhouse that sleeps up to six, Odekerken discovered that he had to look beyond nearby options in Utah. “I started looking around locally and it was all so ugly—too many frills,” he says. The solution? More driving, this time to Santa Fe, Phoenix and various places in Colorado where he sourced natural-hued pieces rooted in simplicity and elegant design.
Today the house is both a retreat from and reflection of its one-of-a-kind environment. “I wanted to have a home that is very organic and natural and mostly that showed off the rocks of the area,” says Odekerken.
The residence also commands dramatic, 360-degree views of stunning canyon land from almost every corner. On the ground floor, sprawling windows and wrap-around decks are all trained toward aweinspiring red rock terrain dotted with oak brush, cedar and pine. “Colorwise, it is so beautiful here,” says Odekerken. “I wanted the home to capture that, so I did things like stacking rock from the area on the home vertically, so you could really see it.”
Odekerken designed the ground floor of the main home to include two bedrooms, while the second story’s circular kiva space offers an alternate nighttime location. “It’s a great place to go with just a sleeping bag and a bottle of wine,” he says of the space that houses his home office and is only accessed via an exterior ladder. Other areas at Kiva Lodge invite contemplation, such as the completely whimsical bathtub perched along the rim of the property.
“I spent the night at that spot when I was originally exploring the property,” adds Odekerken. “I thought it was amazing, so I bought a very beautiful, old-fashioned iron bathtub and it’s literally 2 feet from the drop, but somehow, it doesn’t feel scary. I bring water and fill the tub in the morning. During the day, it heats up and by late afternoon, it’s warm and wonderful. Being in there is almost like a meditation.”
“This may not be the average American home, but for me, it’s the realization of a dream,” says Odekerken. “In my opinion, there is nothing like the natural beauty of this country west of the Rockies.”
PRESENTED BY CHRIS ODEKERKEN
LIST PRICE $4,800,000
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT ELKHEARTCLIFFSRANCH.COM