Sophisticated and steeped in history, these six properties—from a turn-of-the-century, knoll-top home in Montecito to a colorful Hacienda-style retreat in La Paz—combine contemporary comforts with one-of-a-kind antique elements. When it comes to these estate, the past has never felt more alive.
7935 OCEANUS DRIVE | LOS ANGELES
Under a roof crafted with imported 400-year-old Spanish tile sits this sprawling home, created by internationally renowned Dalinger Designs. Perched on a nearly half-acre lot amidst the hills of L.A.’s Mount Olympus neighborhood, this sunny estate,represented by Farrah Brittany, Mauricio Umanksy and Eduardo Umansky, melds old-world details (think hand-hewn, wood-beamed ceilings and custom lighting fixtures) with contemporary amenities. From a chef’s kitchen to a grassy backyard with a built-in grill, fire pit, swimming pool and spa, this estate was made for modern-day entertaining.
11404 BELLAGIO ROAD | LOS ANGELES
Awe-inspiring antiques meet present-day perks in this Bel Air estate, which was once the home of jazz singer Peggy Lee. Originally built by architect Addison Mizner in the 1920s, the residence is represented by Billy Rose and Jon Grauman. Lee’s personal touches can be found throughout the property, starting with the foyer’s antique chandelier, which she hand-picked from a Paris flea market. Inside, the kitchen’s contemporary appliances sit under a barrel-vaulted ceiling made with tiles imported from an Italian estate. Protected by a century-old covenant that will forever preserve its views, this historic home offers a rarified living experience in one of L.A.’s most prestigious neighborhoods.
256 EUCALYPTUS HILL DRIVE | MONTECITO
From the moment the gate opens onto its magnificent motor court, this Montecito treasure will have you spellbound. First built in 1914, the recently renovated estate, called Solana, spans 11.2 knoll-top acres and offers 360-degree views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and valleys below. Represented by Stefan Pommepuy, Santiago Arana and Mauricio Umansky, the home’s other inimitable features include a statuary and botanical garden with over 200 fruit trees and a 19th-century European limestone pergola. The site of a prominent American think tank from 1958 to 1978, the century-old estate counts John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King among its esteemed guests.
Built in the late 1800s and housed in a registered historic building that once served as the State Courthouse, El Angel Azul (the Blue Angel) is a carefully restored landmark in the heart of Downtown La Paz. Represented by Alejandro Mitre and Joanne Berkowitz, the design is filled with distinctive decorative elements, from its traditional Mexican Talavera-tiled kitchen to its vibrant yellow and earthy terracotta walls. Bedrooms look out onto a palm-shaded courtyard furnished with hammocks and lounges. Located near the 184-year-old La Paz Cathedral and the waterfront, the Blue Angel would be ideal as a boutique hotel, corporate retreat, private compound or a co-living arrangement.
Just beyond the iron gates of “Hacienda del Bosque” is a romantic oasis like no other. This thoughtfully designed compound represented by Eric Haskell is styled after the historic Spanish structures in Santa Barbara’s presidio and comprised of a main home and a two-story guest house. While present-day amenities like a swimming pool and updated kitchen abound, antique beams and handcrafted roof and floor tiles add touches of antiquity. When it’s time for a night out, the estate is ideally located near Montecito’s Upper Village shops and restaurants.
HACIENDA CASA NAWALLI | SAYULITA
A quiet refuge in the heart of Mexico’s Sayulita, this hacienda-style estate sits amidst a lush edible garden. Represented by Randy Powers and Arturo Gutierrez, its interior features ancient curved brick Boveda ceilings and brightly-hued antique furniture restored by Monterrey artist and designer María Fernanda Barrero. Comprised of a main house and a separate apartment, this property also includes a commercial space (perfect for a retail boutique or office). Enjoy modern comforts like air conditioning and a poolside bar before exploring the nearby village’s restaurants, art galleries, farmers market, shopping and—of course—Sayulita’s fabulous North Beach.
