When 43% of Americans haven’t had a vacation in a year or more and a half are only using nine days off on average to travel, people are finding a way to bring pieces of their getaways into their everyday lives with their home decor.
Between the cost of travel, worrying about falling behind on work, hurting their chances for a promotion, or risking losing their job, Americans aren’t using all their vacation days. So across the country, people decorate their homes to remind them of their favorite vacation destinations when they can’t get away.
In a survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Puffy, Americans reported that interior design decisions weren’t about function or creating spaces that better served their needs. They were about craving a luxe space that felt more like a sanctuary.
“There is actual science for why we choose to decorate our homes with memories tied to a specific place — it’s called Topophilia, the love of a place,” explains Lars Gesing, a fine arts nature photographer. “It’s an effort of our society, which now spends up to 80% indoors, to reconnect with nature.”
“As an interior designer, I find that travel can be one of the most inspiring sources of creativity. Exploring new cities, immersing myself in different cultures, and admiring the natural beauty of a destination all provide endless inspiration for my work,” reveals Carmelo of Axel Property Management.
“When I return from a trip, I often find myself incorporating elements of what I’ve seen and experienced into my design projects.”
According to an analysis by Storyboards.io, New York, California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Missouri are the U.S. states with the most design inspiration. These rankings considered the number of landmarks, museums, and design-related hashtags when sharing images on social media.
New York is where decor dreams of made of. The state has 276 landmarks, 786 museums, and many attractions over its 11 regions. From Niagara Falls to New York City, Catskills to Cooperstown, and Hudson Valley to Hudson Yards, there’s a diversity of landscapes and landmarks to incorporate into living spaces.
“My biggest decor inspirations are the clean lines of New York City,” says Diana Kellogg, architect. “The Mercer Hotel comes to mind in terms of style inspirations as Christian Liaigre’s clean, comfortable, and timeless look represents the ideal of the modern styling I base my decor on.”
Home to many iconic cities and landscapes, California trails closely behind New York for driving people’s decor decisions. With mountains, beaches, desert, national parks, stunning historic and modern hotels, plus the creator’s spirit of Hollywood, it is also a creative well for home decoration.
One of those inspired vacationers is Raf. After traveling to 45 countries and 46 U.S. states, he designed his home office after one California destination known for its mix of mid-century modern design and playful use of colors.
“My office color palette is inspired by Palm Springs with a blush-colored sofa, teal-accented throw pillows, and a vibrant rug to set the tone. The wall color, Benjamin Moore’s Palladian Blue, provides a serene setting, and the tropical plants thrive in the natural light that comes through the window,” shares Raf, Interior designer, Founder of Meble Furniture.
Other travelers have gone as far as recreating their favorite hotel room in their own homes.
“My husband and I love the Ojai Valley Inn. They decided to remodel all the guest rooms about seven years ago, so I bought their outgoing Spanish-tile-inspired fabric, drapes, pillow shams, furniture, artwork, and accent pieces. I completely redid my living room and bedroom,” admits Elizabeth Borsting, account manager.
“Whenever I get ready for bed, I ask my husband to ‘Ojai Valley Inn’ the room, which means closing the drapes. It really transports me back to the inn, one of my happy places.”
During the pandemic shut-in, people re-did the outdoor spaces of their homes to increase their living areas. Add in pandemic-era travel to wide open spaces and nature destinations, and people’s outdoor living spaces also transformed into a reflection of beloved vacations.
“One of my favorite places to visit and vacation is Hawaii. I love the tropical environment — from the beaches to the animals to the colorful plants. One of the Hawaiian flowers that I really love is Birds of Paradise,” says Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love.
“So, a few years ago, after a trip to Hawaii, I researched the plant and figured out it’s suitable as an indoor plant. I got a few, and they sit in my sunroom.”
“I fell in love with the Florida Keys. The tropical flowering plants, orchids, and the many variations of palms, both big and small. The bright colors, the blues, yellows, light greens, pinks, and the turquoise blue water,” adds Marc Renson.
“So I came home to New York and created a Key Largo front porch. I walk out the front door, yell to my husband, ‘I’m going to Key Largo,’ and sit on my front porch.”
According to AAA booking data, international travel is up more than 200% in 2023. These cross-border travelers have also inspired people to bring those memories made abroad during their paid time off into their everyday lives.
“The Dunmore Hotel in Harbour Island, Bahamas, inspired me to design our home with an island feel. It’s a whimsical blend of organic greenery, carefully curated vintage pieces, casual and unpretentious elegance with a combination of natural textures and pops of color,” shares Violette de Ayala.
“There is a sense of elegance and rustic homage to island life that I fell in love with and was able to transport into our home in Miami.”
“The mix and blend of vintage rattan, old art, pops of turquoise, and an array of natural fibers, including fresh-cut greenery from the outdoors, was so captivating, and these components were easily adaptable at our home. I love the black and white striped awnings and added these to the exterior of our home,” Ayala continues.
“You can’t travel to the Mediterranean region without coming back inspired to redo your decor at home. With the rich textures and colors you find in traditional homes throughout Spain, Italy, and the Greek Isles, you’ll want to bring a little piece of that back with you in your own home,” explains Todd Saunders, CEO of Flooring Stones.
“A tile backsplash with a Mediterranean design was our choice after our travels to Greece. It’s a great reminder of our awesome trip and is a focal point of the kitchen,” he adds.
This article was produced by Planner at Heart and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
Who’s the best villain you’ve watched in a movie or television series? After polling the internet, these are the top-ranked twenty-five villains of all time.
1. Ian McShane as Al Swearengen in Deadwood
One person suggested, “Al Swearengen from Deadwood, played by Ian McShane. It’s the story of a villain defending his village. He’s so good that the entire series pivoted to being about him.” “He’s a bad guy you’d want on your side, that’s for sure. My favorite TV character,” a second confessed.
2. Tony Dalton as Lalo Salamanca in Better Call Saul
“Lalo Salamanca in Better Call Saul. When he jumped down that cliff, I knew he was a maniac,” claimed one. A second said, “He was so well-written and a charming devil.”
3. Marc Alaimo as Gul Dukat in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
One user noted, “Gul Dukat in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. He goes from evil Hitler type to loving father on the run from his government to crazy possessed madman in a single series.”
4. Darth Vader in The Star Wars Franchise
“Darth Vader” shared one. A second admitted, “I’m shocked I needed to scroll so far for this. He was only in the original StarWars for nine minutes and made a global impact.” A third agreed, “I’m astonished this isn’t the top comment. He’s one of the best-written villains, let alone a cultural icon.”
5. Hannibal Lector
“Hannibal Lector. Anthony Hopkins from the film franchise and Mads Mikkelsen from the series both did a fantastic job,” suggested one. “This was instantly my first thought. So unbelievably scary but equal parts intriguing, and the intelligence and likability of his character were so interesting,” a second added.
6. Andrew Scott as Moriarty In Sherlock Holmes
Someone shared, “Andrew Scott as Moriarty In Sherlock Holmes. I kept thinking, ‘I don’t like this actor,’ and then I saw him in other roles. Finally, it hits me that it’s not that I don’t like this guy. His specific acting as Moriarty is so good he is subconsciously bothering me in a way that no one had managed to do before!”
7. Walton Goggin as Boyd Crowder in Justified
“Boyd Crowder (played by Walton Goggins) in Justified,” shared one. “He’s not particularly strong in season one, but by season two, you want him to keep getting away to have more. That he’s Raylan’s frenemy and not just a generic evil guy was such a nice touch.”
8. Gary Oldman as Lord Shen in Kung Fu Panda 2
One person volunteered, “Lord Shen in Kung Fu Panda 2.” Another admitted, “I love the way they create characters in these movies. A literal bird was the villain; A BIRD.”
“He was somehow more terrifying and threatening than any other villain in the trilogy. Birds like him aren’t supposed to be so powerful, yet Dreamworks convinced me otherwise.” Finally, a third added, “That’s also the power of Gary Oldman.”
9. Vincent D’onofrio as Wilson Fisk/Kingpin in Daredevil and Hawkeye
“Vincent D’onofrio as Wilson Fisk/Kingpin in Daredevil and the Hawkeye Marvel series on Disney+,” shared one. Others noted he was also a fabulous villain in The Cell, Full Metal Jacket, and Men in Black.
10. Grey DeLisle as Azula in Avatar: The Last Airbender Series
“AGREED. I was searching for that comment. The way she NEVER looked into a mirror until the episode she went crazy and all those other tiny little details… She was, is, and always will be the best villain in cinematic history,” expressed one.
11. Eartha Kitt as Yzma in The Emperor’s New Groove
“Eartha Kitt as Yzma in The Emperor’s New Groove is a remarkable and underrated Disney villain,” suggested one. After several people quoted the film, one stated, “That whole movie is just so quotable. Eartha Kitt killed it as Yzma.”
12. Leonardo DiCaprio as Calvin Candie in Django Unchained
“Leonardo DiCaprio in Django Unchained was on point,” one expressed. However, “Stephen (Samuel L. Jackson) was also pretty great, and if anything, was the real villain in that movie,” a second user argued.
13. Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin in Happy Gilmore
One person suggested, “Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin in Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore is easily one of the best villains of all time.” However, another argued, “I would go further and say the caretaker (Ben Stiller) at the old folks home was worse.”
14. Louise Fletcher as Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
“Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest just because of how implicitly she tortured the inmates. She was such a good, evil actress, and I instantly hated her as Kai Wynn in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, too,” one said. Another noted, “She apparently couldn’t watch the film for years because of her performance. Imagine playing a villain so well that it psychs you out.”
15. Javier Bardem as Anton Chigurh in No Country for Old Men
One person volunteered, “Javier Bardem, as Anton Chigurh in No Country for Old Men.” “Chigurh is terrific not only because he’s a terrifying psychopath, but he holds the delusion of being an agent of fate – then the car crash which nearly kills him happens in the end. Chigurh isn’t immune to fate. He’s just insane,” a second added.
16. Imelda Staunton as Dolores Umbridge in Harry Potter
“Dolores Umbridge,” one replied. “The thing with her is that she is such a REAL, COMMON character to everyday life. For example, you’re not going to encounter a Darth Vader or Lalo Salamanca, but chances are that you have already met someone like Umbridge. She is almost the perfect definition of a lawful evil character.”
17. Alan Rickman as Hans Gruber in Die Hard
“Hans Gruber. Alan Rickman portrays him so well,” one noted. “This needs to be higher! Rickman was also an incredible villain like The Sherriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, but Hans Gruber in Die Hard is the greatest villain of all time,” a second professed.
18. Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto From the X-Men Comics and Films
“Magneto. There are times when you can sympathize with him, and his actions almost seem justified. The most likable villain,” said one. A second added, “How can you go wrong with Ian McKellen and Michael Fassbender? The combination did an outstanding job as Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto, undoubtedly one of the best younger and older acting combinations ever.”
19. Jack Gleeson as Joffrey Baratheon in Game of Thrones
“Joffrey Baratheon in Game of Thrones,” said one. “Let’s all be honest. Jack Gleeson did an outstanding job acting that we all hated him.” A second shared, “Joffrey, please put some respect on this tragically messed up character who made Jack Gleeson take an acting hiatus.”
20. David Tennant as Killgrave in Jessica Jones
One user admitted, “I found Killgrave in Jessica Jones to be a fantastic villain. David Tennant nailed the role! Which is strange after only seeing him play good characters like The Doctor.” A second stated, “Easily one of the best Marvel villains who doesn’t get enough attention.”
21. Giancarlo Esposito as Gus Fring in Breakign Bad
“Gus Fring helped me understand that Walt was genuinely evil. For example, when the villain is more honorable than the protagonist, there may be a problem with the protagonist (morally, not thematically),” one suggested. A second added, “I came here to say this, and more broadly, Giancarlo Esposito. He plays villains who are so nuanced and terrifying.”
22. Ellen McLain as GLaDOS From The Portal Video Game Series
Someone suggested, “Everything GLaDOS says is pure, sarcastic gold. She can pull all of it off so well. “A second confessed, “I’m playing Portal for the first time, and I’ve known how GLaDOS is pretty sarcastic, but I still got pleasantly surprised and just a little hurt by her dialogue. I wasn’t expecting the fat jokes.”
23. Antony Star as Homelander in The Boys
Someone volunteered, “Homelander from The Boys is one of them. Whenever I thought he couldn’t get any worse, he’d do something even more depraved. He is selfish and self-centered and gets away with it because he’s so powerful. Oh, and what makes him the most dangerous is that he’s pretty dumb.”
24. Matthew Goode as Ozymandias in Watchmen
One user quoted Ozymandias from Watchmen, “You don’t think I’d explain my plan if there were the slightest chance you could stop me, do you? I did it 35 minutes ago.” A second added, “This was a brilliant piece of meta-dialogue. They didn’t break the fourth wall entirely, but it was a great way to address what is often such a silly movie trope.”
25. Christoph Waltz as Hans Landa in Inglourious Basterds
“Christoph Waltz in Inglourious Basterds is the first that came to mind,” confessed one. “Hans Landa was terrifying in so many ways. This actor is insanely good,” replied another.
What do you think? Did Reddit get this right, or is your favorite villain missing from this list?
Who is one actress you can never stand watching, no matter their role? After polling the internet, these were the top-voted actresses that people couldn’t stand watching.
10 Actresses People Despise Watching Regardless of Their Role
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
We’ve all heard the famous adage that “no publicity is bad publicity,” and while it tends to be accurate, there are certainly exceptions. But what about those few stars who stay out of the limelight and get along without a hint of trouble?
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
Have you ever known someone and thought you liked them—until you learned about their hobbies? Then you get to know them and then you’re like, “Wow, red flag.” Well, you’re not alone.
These 10 Activities Are an Immediate Red Flag
Some celebrities definitely seem to enjoy the limelight and keep working to stay in the public eye. While others quickly move out of the spotlight. Many of these actors and actresses stepped out of the spotlight to live a more private life without constant media pressures.
10 Celebrities That Made the Big Times Then Disappeared Off The Face of the Earth
We’ve all been there – sitting through a movie that we can’t help but cringe at, but somehow it still manages to hold a special place in our hearts.
These 10 Terrible Movies Are Still People’s Favorites
A massive 17,602-square-foot home that sits on Highland Beach’s largest oceanfront lot has recently hit the market in Palm Beach County, Florida and has the potential to set a new real estate record.
The trophy property delivers over 150 feet of private manicured beachfront on nearly 2 acres in the ”Estate Section” of Byrd Beach, minutes away from Atlantic Avenue and Boca Raton.
It also sports a price tag worthy of its countless attributes: the mansion is listed for $59.9 million, making it the most expensive home for sale in Highland Beach and the priciest listing in the greater Boca Raton area.
If it sells anywhere near its asking price, the Ocean Blvd. property will become the most expensive home ever sold in the area.
RELATED: Florida’s most expensive house ever: Larry Ellison’s $173 million Gemini estate
“This estate is one of the nicest houses in Highland Beach,” says Coldwell Banker Realty agent Jonathan Postma, who holds the listing. “It’s a trophy property that is becoming increasingly hard to find in Florida, especially with two acres and 150 feet of private ocean frontage.”
Interestingly enough, the previous record holder is this very property. The same Ocean Blvd. home sold in April 2022 for a whopping $45 million, a deal that marked the highest sale in the Highland Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Gulf Stream, and Ocean Ridge area, per the South Florida Sun Sentinel.
The owner, identified by The Real Deal as an Omaha businessman, bought the property in 2022 in an off-market deal, and has since done extensive maintenance/repairs, while also revamping the interiors of the massive 17,602-square-foot mansion.
Featuring modern French-Eclectic architecture, transitional interiors by Marc-Michaels, and fortress-like construction by Mark Timothy Luxury Homes, the $59.9 million Ocean Blvd. house is the epitome of luxury.
SEE ALSO: Serena Williams’ house in Florida has many unique features, but no living room
With 8 bedrooms, 10 full baths and 3 partial baths, the mansion has intricate details throughout, creatively blending an atmosphere of grand-scale entertaining and comfortable beach living.
Inside, some of the standout features of the privately gated estate include a gourmet kitchen with a large center island, double ovens and pantry; an oversized master bedroom with en suite and massive walk-in closet; a home theatre; and a fitness area, among others.
Adding to its beach living appeal, the Ocean Blvd. estate also features a heated pool/spa area with a cabana, outdoor shower, built-in grill, and summer kitchen.
Ultra-high-end real estate in Boca Raton, Florida is on a stratospheric rise, breaking record sale prices every year for five consecutive years. According to a CNBC report, mansions in the Boca Raton area are commanding Miami Beach prices, with the price per square foot of the area’s top-end homes now on par with Miami Beach pricing.
“People tend to think of Miami when the subject turns to high-end South Florida real estate,” Douglas Elliman real estate agent Senada Adzem told CNBC, “But Boca Raton is, without question, one of the region’s premier luxury residential markets.” And the spectacular $59.9 million Highland Beach mansion we covered today is clear proof of that.
More stories you might like
Mar-a-Lago Neighboring Mansion Sells for a Whopping $50 Million
MLB All-Star Mark Melancon relists $11M waterfront home in Florida
‘Cash me Outside’ girl Bhad Bhabie’s house, a $6.1M Boca Raton mansion
Want to invest in a hot start-up company, join a market-beating private investment fund or back a potential blockbuster movie that could be your ticket to the Forbes Billionaire List? Chances are you can’t unless you’re already quite rich or significant investment expertise. But a recently passed House bill aims to change that by allowing individuals to take a test that could allow them to purchase such private securities.
A financial advisor can help you invest and integrate those holdings into a diversified portfolio. Speak with a financial advisor today.
About the Proposed Legislation
Right now, anyone who wants to purchase an unregistered security, such as shares in a hedge fund or private equity fund, needs to show that they’re what the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) considers an “accredited investor.” To qualify, you need a net worth of more than $1 million (not including your home), more than $200,000 a year in income ($300,000 if you’re married) or significant experience as an investment professional. Otherwise, your money is off-limits for private placements and other unregistered offerings.
The Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act of 2023 (H.R. 2797) would instruct the SEC to create an accredited investor certification exam that would allow investors to demonstrate they have the knowledge and understanding required to participate in the private market. The exam would be administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
“It is my firm belief that the accredited investor definition should not be tied exclusively to wealth,” one of the bill’s sponsors, Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb., said in a statement. “Instead, we should unlock opportunities for knowledgeable investors that may not come from means.”
These Other Bills Could Impact Accredited Investors
The House recently passed two additional bills that would expand the definition of an accredited investor. Here’s a breakdown of each:
The Accredited Investor Definition Review Act (H.R. 1579) gives the SEC discretion to establish the necessary certifications, designations or credentials investors need to be accredited, and would require the commission to review those definitions every five years.
The Fair Investment Opportunities for Professional Experts Act (H.R. 835) would grant accredited investor status to individuals with certain licenses, or educational or professional backgrounds. “My legislation is about leveling the playing field,” said Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Mich., sponsor of the investor definition review act. “Whether it’s in Kalamazoo or Portage, Benton Harbor or St. Joe, or Battle Creek or Springfield, investors should be able to support small business startups in their local community across southwest Michigan and around the nation.”
Besides meeting the requirement for net worth, income or professional investing experience, individuals also can qualify as an accredited investor under existing law if they are directors, executive officers or general partners of the company selling the securities or the company that’s the subject of the offering. Clients of a family office that qualifies as an accredited investor may also be considered accredited. And in the case of a private investment fund, someone the SEC defines as a “knowledgeable employee” of the fund may qualify as an accredited investor.
Bottom Line
The SEC restricts the sale of unregistered or private securities because those offerings typically don’t meet the commission’s standards for financial and regulatory disclosures. Instead, participation has been limited to financially sophisticated and wealthy investors with a reduced need for the protection provided by disclosure filings. New legislation that’s been approved in the House of Representatives would establish an exam that investors would need to pass before attaining “accredited” status. Meanwhile, other bills that are working their way through Congress would expand the definition of an accredited investor.
Investing Tips
While investing in unregulated securities can be complicated and risky, figuring out an investment strategy that relies on typical stocks, bonds, mutual funds and ETFs can be confusing, too. A financial advisor can help. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Diversification is a key investment strategy to understand. Concentrating too much wealth in a few assets can leave your portfolio vulnerable and exposed to heightened volatility. SmartAsset’s asset allocation calculator can help you identify a mix of stocks, bonds and cash that’s suited to the level of risk that you’re willing to assume.
Horror movies have been a staple of the film industry for decades, captivating audiences with their ability to scare, shock, and thrill. From classic black-and-white thrillers to modern-day blockbusters, horror movies haunt us with their terrifying stories and imagery. Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or simply looking for a good scare, the world of horror movies offers a wide range of options to choose from.
1. The Exorcist
“The Exorcist” is a classic horror film directed by William Friedkin and released in 1973. The movie tells the story of a young girl named Regan who becomes possessed by a demon, and the efforts of a priest named Father Damien Karras to exorcise the entity from her body. The film is widely regarded as one of the best horror movies ever made due to its blend of supernatural horror and personal themes of faith and redemption. The use of practical effects and strong performances from the cast, particularly Linda Blair and Jason Miller, add to the film’s enduring legacy.
2. The Shining
“The Shining” is a 1980 horror film directed by Stanley Kubrick and is considered one of the best horror movies ever made. The movie tells the story of Jack Torrance, a writer who takes a job as a winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel with his wife and son. Kubrick’s masterful direction and use of imagery create a sense of dread and unease, complemented by the haunting score. Jack Nicholson’s unforgettable performance as Jack Torrance, the exploration of themes such as isolation and madness, and the film’s impact on pop culture all contribute to its status as a classic of cinema and a must-see for horror fans.
3. IT Chapter 1
“It Chapter 1” is a 2017 horror film directed by Andy Muschietti that follows a group of outcast kids, the Losers Club, as they try to defeat a shape-shifting entity that takes the form of a terrifying clown named Pennywise. The film’s blend of horror, humor, and heart makes it stand out in the genre. The exceptional cast, particularly the young actors who play the Losers Club, deliver powerful performances. The film explores universal themes related to childhood trauma, grief, and the power of imagination, which elevates it beyond the confines of the horror genre. Overall, “It Chapter 1” is a must-see film for horror fans and movie lovers alike.
4. The Nun
“The Nun” is a 2018 horror film directed by Corin Hardy that takes place in 1952 Romania. It follows a young nun and a priest as they investigate the death of a nun in a secluded abbey and encounter an evil force in the form of a demonic nun. The film’s immersive atmosphere, stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and clever use of jump scares and suspense make it a modern horror classic and a must-see for horror fans.
5. Jaws
“Jaws” is a 1975 horror film directed by Steven Spielberg that takes place in a small New England town terrorized by a giant man-eating great white shark. The film’s ability to create suspense and terror through suggestion rather than explicit gore, exceptional performances, and masterful filmmaking make it a classic horror film and a must-see for fans of the genre. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless storytelling and iconic scenes.
6. IT Chapter 2
“IT Chapter 2” is a 2019 horror film directed by Andy Muschietti and based on the novel by Stephen King. The film follows the adult versions of the Losers Club as they return to Derry, Maine to confront the shape-shifting entity known as Pennywise the Clown. The film’s exceptional cast, and the blend of horror and heart make it one of the best horror movies ever made.
7. A Quiet Place
“A Quiet Place” is a 2018 horror film directed by John Krasinski, set in a post-apocalyptic world where creatures hunt by sound. The film’s use of sound and unique premise creates a tense and immersive atmosphere, while exceptional performances by the cast, particularly Emily Blunt and Millicent Simmonds, add depth to the characters. The exploration of themes such as family, sacrifice, and survival make it not just a horror movie, but a thoughtful drama.
8. The Sixth Sense
The Sixth Sense was produced in 1999 by Barry Mendel, Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall. It’s the story of a young boy who receives visits from ghosts. He’s too afraid to tell anybody but the child psychologist, who listens to the boy and tries to help him. Dark secrets about the miscommunication of ghosts are waiting for them, and the movie cleverly lays down clues about the twist that occurs at the end. A clever plot and suspence make this horror movie a must-see for enthusiasts!
9. World War Z
“World War Z” is a 2013 horror film directed by Marc Forster and is considered one of the great horror movies of the past decade. The movie follows a former United Nations employee’s journey as he travels across the globe in search of a cure for a zombie pandemic while trying to protect his family. The film’s strengths include the intensity of the action, impressive special effects, a fast-paced and suspenseful storyline, and engaging performances, particularly by Brad Pitt. The exploration of themes such as survival, sacrifice, and the consequences of human actions adds a level of depth and complexity to the movie. Furthermore, the film has had a significant impact on the zombie sub-genre of horror movies and inspired numerous films, TV shows, and video games.
10. Hereditary
“Hereditary” is a 2018 horror film directed by Ari Aster and is considered one of the great horror movies of recent times. The movie follows the Graham family as they struggle with their grief and the unsettling events that follow the death of the grandmother. The film’s direction, masterful use of symbolism, cinematography, and score create a sense of unease and dread throughout the film. Toni Collette delivers a powerful performance as the mother, Annie, whose family is haunted by dark secrets and a sinister presence. The movie’s impact is long-lasting, inspiring discussions and debates among viewers about its meaning and themes.
From the classic supernatural horror of “The Exorcist” to the post-apocalyptic tension of “A Quiet Place,” these films have captivated audiences with their ability to scare, shock, and thrill. These movies continue to inspire new generations of horror filmmakers and enthusiasts, and their legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of the horror genre.
These are 10 Things That Completely Destroyed The Love in a Relationship
There’s no question that relationships can be confusing, but here are some of the top things to avoid if you want to keep your relationship healthy!
10 Actors and Actresses People Refuse to Watch Ever Again
We all have a favorite actor or actress, but most of us have a least-favorite as well. Check out this list of actors and actresses people never want to see performing again!
Top 10 Worst Human Inventions of All Time
Some inventions are world-changing, and some of them, well, they change the world in the wrong ways. Here are some of the worst inventions Redditors could think of.
10 Famous Celebrities Who Look Like They Smell Terrible
We’ve all had moments of hygiene faux pas—but these celebrities just look like they don’t take care of themselves at all.
10 Terrible Fads People Are Glad Died Out
Every fad has its time in the limelight, but some of them come and go faster than others; and some just need to die out right away. Check out this list of fads of which people were happy to see the last.
Four lawsuits filed in New York and California are part of the settlement, which names Sprout, its affiliated company Recovco Mortgage Management LLC,and former top executives, including its founder Michael Strauss, as defendants.
Defunct Long Island-based Sprout, led by industry veteran Strauss, informed hundreds of workers it was closing its doors on July 6 after a sharp rise in mortgage rates saddled the company with loans it was unable to sell to investors in the secondary market at par.
HousingWire previously reported that ex-employees alleged the company did not pay the former employees’ last paychecks and severance package. The company also canceled health insurance coverage retroactively to May 1, resulting in several lawsuits against the lender.
In the request for the settlement approval, the plaintiff’s attorneys said they do not “believe Defendants even have a defense to the allegation that the Company failed to pay its employees for several weeks of work performed once the corporate entities shut down.”
To justify the settlement, the attorneys wrote, “Our primary concern has been the limited assets left in the accounts of the Corporate Defendants (Sprout and Recovco) and our ability to collect on a judgment against the primary individual defendant, Michael Strauss.”
The negotiations started seven months ago and included two mediations, in-person and virtual meetings and dozens of phone conferences.
In October 2022, plaintiffs demanded about $20 million in unpaid wages, liquidated damages, and damages under the federal WARN and COBRA notice violations. In turn, the company responded that it would not have the financial ability to “pay an eight-figure judgment and that the collection risk against Strauss was high.”
“We learned many potentially valuable assets were, in fact, encumbered or no longer in Defendant Strauss’ possession. This information helped us to offer principled advice to our clients regarding settlement decision making,” plaintiffs’ attorneys wrote in court filings.
Strauss is reportedly trying to sell a property at 610 Park Avenue in New York for $22.5 million and has started a new mortgage company. However, he is facing some resistance. Strauss and his company, Smart Rate Mortgage,appealed in April a decision from an Illinois regulator to suspend their licenses to operate in the state. Meanwhile, the licenses remain active.
Scott Simpson, one of the attorneys for the plaintiffs at Menken Simpson & Rozger LLP, said in an email to HousingWire that the timeline for former employees to receive compensation will depend on when the court rules on the motion and any further dates set by the court.
“If the court approves the settlement, a settlement administrator will send checks out to eligible class members,” Simpson said.
“Our clients have no comment at this time,” Marc Wenger, an attorney for the defendants at Jackson Lewis P.C., said.
Jay-Z and Beyoncé just shattered California’s price record, paying $200 million for a striking concrete compound overlooking the ocean in Malibu, according to TMZ.
It’s the most ever paid for a home in the Golden State — by a mile. The hip-hop power couple stole the record from their new neighbor, billionaire venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, who paid $177 million for the home right next door in 2021.
The house is a minimalist masterpiece, a modern concoction of concrete and glass envisioned by art collector William Bell, who bought the property for $14.5 million in 2003. For the design, he brought in Japanese architect Tadao Ando, a Pritzker Prize winner responsible for impressive concrete structures across Asia, Europe and North America.
Advertisement
His style is on full display here, as the L-shaped mansion opens to vast, open spaces marked by concrete hallways and floor-to-ceiling walls of glass. Out back, patios lead to a swimming pool, cabana and a flat, grassy lawn perched on a cliff overlooking the beach below.
The mega-mansion spans nearly 40,000 square feet and required 7,645 cubic yards of concrete, according to Morley Construction Co., the project’s contractor.
Photos are scarce, as the house never hit the market. Instead, it was quietly offered at $295 million as a pocket listing, which means it was shown only to a select group of qualified buyers.
Rumors about the property have swirled for years, with several Reddit users likening the monolithic design to a supervillain’s lair.
The historic deal redefines the luxury market in Southern California, which has slowed down so far this year in the wake of the red-hot pandemic housing market. It also marks another feather in the cap for the affluent enclave of Paradise Cove, which has emerged as one of the most valuable stretches of land in the entire country.
WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum paid $87 million for a Paradise Cove home in 2021, and billionaire Public Storage heir Tamara Gustavson put her place on the market last year for $127.5 million. In 2016, a tiny mobile home there traded hands for $5.3 million.
It appears Jay-Z and Beyoncé have a type. In 2017, they paid $88 million for a similar-looking mansion in Bel-Air composed of six structures surrounded by expansive patios and terraces.
Kurt Rappaport of Westside Estate Agency handled both ends of the deal, TMZ reported. He could not be reached Friday for comment.
Drake spent longer looking for an L.A. home than living in it. A year after dropping $75 million on a mega-mansion in Beverly Crest, the rapper has put it back on the market with an even bigger price tag: $88 million.
It’s a surprising move for the hip-hop star, who spent over a year scouring the Southern California market in search of the perfect estate. He eventually settled on the home of singer-songwriter Robbie Williams, and the $75 million he spent was more than double the $32.67 million that Williams paid for it in 2015.
If Drake gets his price, it’ll be Southern California’s most expensive home sale so far this year and a shot in the arm for L.A.’s lagging luxury real estate market, which has slowed significantly since Measure ULA went into effect in April, bringing a hefty transfer tax to L.A. property sales above $5 million.
Advertisement
Because the compound is found in Beverly Crest — an affluent enclave above Beverly Hills, but technically in the city of L.A. — it’ll be subject to the transfer tax when it sells. At $88 million, the sale would raise $4.84 million for affordable housing and homelessness prevention efforts.
1/12
The backyard. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
2/12
The entry. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
3/12
The living room. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
4/12
The dining room. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
5/12
The kitchen. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
6/12
The bedroom. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
7/12
The bathroom. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
8/12
The wine cellar. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
9/12
The patio. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
10/12
The view. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
11/12
The tennis court. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
12/12
Aerial view of the estate. (Marc & Tiffany Angeles)
The impressive estate is the priciest property up for grabs in the 90210 ZIP Code due to its rare combination of size and scale. The house itself spans more than 24,000 square feet, and the property covers roughly 20 acres — more than double the acreage of any other house on the market in the area.
Built in 2001, the Tuscan-style showplace includes 10 bedrooms, 22 bathrooms and a host of amenities including a wine cellar, gym, library, game room, movie theater and 11-car garage. Sweeping staircases and an elevator navigate the three-story floor plan.
Lawns, gardens and a mosaic-tile swimming pool overlook the city out back, and paths descend to a tennis court and orchard.
Branden and Rayni Williams of the Beverly Hills Estates hold the listing with Marc Bretter of Oakwood Realty Corp.
In today’s modern world, the house goals of yesteryear are a distant memory.
Long gone are the days of window shutters, oversized crystal chandeliers, multiple small rooms, intricate designs, wrought-iron railings, small windows, and large porches with overhanging beams.
Modern mansions favor simple and clean designs with open spaces.
While traditional mansions offer intricate and elegant details, today’s luxury homes feature straight lines, geometric shapes, a flat or low-sloped roof, and clean exteriors with little to no texture.
Luxurious homes of the past featured building materials such as brick, wood, plaster, stucco, and stone. Meanwhile, contemporary mansions favor newer, more technologically-advanced building materials including reinforced steel and concrete.
And windows, lots and lots of floor-to-ceiling windows.
Sophisticated smart homes are all the rage, as are connected outdoor spaces, white rooms and simple color palettes, open floor plans, glass walls allowing for ample natural light, green features, security settings, and the utmost privacy.
While traditional mansions typically featured a number of small, single-purpose rooms, modern floor plans include seamless open-ended spaces.
After all, one cannot be confined to small spaces while living that luxurious lifestyle!
A closer look at 18 of our favorite modern mansions
When it comes to stunning estates, we’ve got you covered.
From wraparound pools featuring panoramic views to glass walls for days, to dream chef kitchens, to seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, we’re taking a look at 18 modern mansions that have knocked our socks off.
And we think you’ll (really, really) like them too.
A Marc Whipple-designed modern mansion with a wraparound pool
Designed by acclaimed architect Marc Whipple, this massive 11,200-square-foot home in Beverly Hills is quite a stunner.
Offering six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and two half baths, the multi-million dollar manse features disappearing walls of glass, so that its residents can enjoy the stunning views from each and every room.
Speaking of views, they’re completely unobstructed, with downtown Los Angeles, Catalina Island, and the coastline on full display. Those lovely landscapes can be seen from the home’s stunning wraparound pool.
Other luxurious amenities include a movie theater, a secret Zen garden, gym, guest house, glass wine cellar, gated driveway, and an outdoor kitchen.
This Beverly Hills manse had its moment of fame a few years back, when it was rented by Rockstar hitmaker Post Malone. It was later listed for sale with a whopping $26 million asking price.
A breathtaking Hollywood mega mansion with museum-quality energy crystals throughout
Built in 2021, this mega mansion is located in the heart of Hollywood.
Boasting panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, and the canyon, the home offers six beds, nine baths, and nearly 10,365 square feet of living space.
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency
The sophisticated smart home features museum-quality crystals sourced from around the world and placed with extraordinary care throughout to energetically enhance the residence.
Offering double-height ceilings and incredible indoor/ outdoor living spaces, the California compound also includes a custom home theater, fitness center, wine cellar, second living room and all the finest custom finishes.
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency
Setting a new gold standard for Southern California living, the picturesque backyard — which is front row to the city and canyons — features a beautiful sparkling pool/spa, a built-in BBQ area, and a grassy green lawn.
See more of this unique Hollywood mega-mansion here.
A striking $150M modern mansion in Bel-Air with 360-degree views
This beautiful home in Bel-Air has all the bells and whistles you’d expect in a modern mansion (and then some).
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass
Designed by award-winning architecture and design firm, Saota, the private compound is perched on a promontory high above the city — opening up to unobstructed, 360-degree views of Los Angeles.
Set on a 1.15-acre lot, the swanky crib offers nine bedrooms and fourteen baths spread across 20,841 square feet.
Some of the luxury amenities include an infinity pool with a secluded cabana and pool-side sunken fire pit, three separate staff quarters, and a one-bedroom guest house with a separate, private pool.
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass
This magnificent manse was owned by George Ruan, co-founder of online coupon-clipping company Honey (now part of Paypal).
The Razor House in San Diego, the real-life Iron Man house
The one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece known as The Razor House was designed in 2007 by San Diego-based architect Wallace E. Cunningham.
Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency
The striking concrete and glass mansion — dubbed ‘the Iron Man house’ due to its resemblance to Tony Stark’s mansion in the famous Marvel movie — is perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Offering endless concrete terraces, the stunning estate has mesmerizing views of surrounding hills and the ocean below.
Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The AgencyPhoto credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency
Featuring several outdoor lounge areas, the luxurious three-story home comes with six bedrooms and six baths, with nearly every room opening up to jaw-dropping views.
In 2019, Grammy Award-winning singer Alicia Keys and husband Swizz Beatz bought The Razor House in a $20.8 million deal.
Villa Vella, one of Europe’s finest contemporary homes
Spanish dream house, anyone?
Dubbed Villa Vela, this sprawling 23,476-square-foot property is located in the sun-bathed province of Andalusia, Spain.
Photo credit: The Agency
Sitting behind its own gates, at the end of a sweeping driveway, Villa Vela offers a total of six bedrooms and six baths.
The posh property has been designed to be free-flowing and, as such, has an open plan, including floor-to-ceiling retracting windows that open directly onto a terrace that stretches from one end of the house to the other.
Photo credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The Agency
Not to mention, each of the suites has its own outdoor space, and they also all connect directly to the vast upper terrace, its lawn, garden, and dining area, and benefit from breathtaking views.
A futuristic, yacht-shaped mansion perched high atop the Los Angeles hills
This 17,000-square-foot modern residential oasis in the upscale LA neighborhood of Brentwood is redefining luxury living.
Photo credit: The Agency
Southern California-based architectural firm de Loren & Associates purposefully designed the building by superior wellness standards, without sacrificing on design but rather adding to it.
Inspired by the clean lines and interior spatial layouts of yachts paired with the motion of the sea, the curving exterior facades are reminiscent of ocean waves, wind, and clouds that make not only for an exhilarating lifestyle but also appealing to the eye.
The modern mansion boasts seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and three powder rooms across three levels.
Photo credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The Agency
Featuring a massive list of upscale amenities, the beautiful Brentwood home offers a 610-bottle wine cellar, commercial speed glass elevator, movie theater, state-of-the-art gym, a 300 sq. ft. green wall, and a lower-level entertainment area with a full bar, pool table and more.
And there’s plenty of room for Stormi and Wolf to explore! Turns out, this luxurious residence is owned by none other than rapper Travis Scott.
A newly-built Encino mansion with bright, airy, and warm interiors
We can’t get enough of this amenity-rich mansion with modern interiors and a killer guest house.
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level
The seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom Encino home offers 9,081 square feet of living space enclosed within a private, gated estate with surrounding landscape.
The stunning estate is a beautiful example of modern California living, with picture-perfect interiors, exquisite finishes, jetliner views, and plenty of attractive amenities.
Featuring warm wood tones, the large windows and Fleetwood doors open up to unobstructed views and plenty of natural light.
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury LevelPhoto credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury LevelPhoto credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury LevelPhoto credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury LevelPhoto credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level
The carefully thought-out finishes give the home a modern vibe that extends into the bedrooms as well. The second level of this luxury Encino home has four bedrooms, including the master suite, which walks out to a 1,200-square-foot balcony with a fire table.
Naturally, this wonderful modern manse caught the eye of a famous buyer; it’s now owned by Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson and husband Justin Mikita.
A modern 4-story house facing one of the most beautiful coastal shorelines in all of California
We love this modern mansion set in the most desirable area of Manhattan Beach, The Strand, an oceanfront neighborhood lined with modern-looking mansions that typically sell in the $5 million to $15 million range.
Photo credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties Group
Spanning 6,978 square feet of modern living space, the home offers six bedrooms and eight baths.
Designed by renowned L.A. studio KAA Design, this four-story home was envisioned around life, in all its texture, at the beach.
Rather than cluster sleeping areas on a single floor, they’re strategically spaced across the four levels, with the third floor being home to a primary suite with a private office that’s luxuriously sequestered in the style of a penthouse.
Photo credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties GroupPhoto credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties GroupPhoto credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties GroupPhoto credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties Group
The private elevator takes residents and guests down to the beach room, which is level with the Strand itself, and lounge on the patio, front row to a peaceful scene of sea, sand, and sky.
Read more about this beautiful modern mansion here.
A $70M contemporary marvel that reimagines luxury living for the 21st century
Located in the coveted Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, this modern mansion is what happens when a star-studded team consisting of award-winning architect Noah Walker, AD 100 interior designer, Jamie Bush, and renowned landscape designer, Christine London LTD comes together.
Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency
Spanning 19,000 square feet, this beautiful abode is set on a sprawling four-acre lot and offers six bedrooms and 12 bathrooms alongside many recreation rooms.
The plush property has 270-degree views of the city, ocean, and canyon, and a long list of amenities that include a theater room — with acoustical wall paneling and a commercial cinema-quality projection system — a gym with a steam room, a 75-foot indoor lap pool, outdoor architectural pool and dual offices.
Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The AgencyImage credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The AgencyImage credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The AgencyImage credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency
We first covered this luxurious contemporary home when it first came to market last year with an ambitious asking price of $70 million.
Just a few months later, it was purchased by music mogul Scooter Braun (better known as Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande’s manager, and Taylor Swift‘s manager-turned-foe) for $65 million.
The Ora House in San Diego, where contemporary architecture meets serene living
In the hilly, seaside neighborhood of La Jolla in San Diego, a modern cliffside mansion has all the dream house vibes.
Street view of the property. Photo credit: Blue Heron
Built by Blue Heron’s BH Elite custom home division, the Ora House, as the property has been named, is a true architectural marvel.
The stellar design team incorporated the same innovative biophilic design and advanced Savant technology used in Blue Heron’s flagship home, VM001 in Las Vegas, to “enhance the flow of life while creating an overall sense of peace and natural wellbeing.”
The cliffside estate is set in La Jolla’s exclusive Bird Rock Waterfront enclave and totals 8,878 square feet of living space.
Photo credit: Blue HeronPhoto credit: Blue HeronPhoto credit: Blue Heron
The architectural marvel has five bedrooms and eight baths across its four levels, with each level embracing the outdoors with spaces tailored for both entertaining and private moments.
A striking celebrity compound with a modern heptagon-shaped house
Check out this contemporary compound in La Crescenta, Calif.
Photo credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of Compass
Designed by AD100 architect Michael Maltzan, this dramatic, heptagon-shaped house has spaceship vibes, is surrounded by seven exterior walls (some made out of glass), and is anchored by an open-air courtyard that sits right at the center.
Nearly all the rooms of the house come with sliding floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to either the serene courtyard or beautiful mountain and city skyline views.
Some of the stand-out features of the modern mansion include a primary suite with an entire wall of glass that opens up to a generously sized balcony and a particularly unique bathroom with a blue curved penny-tiled wall surrounding the shower.
Photo credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of Compass
This unique home was owned by Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Michael Peter Balzary, known professionally as Flea.
A $25 million Napa Valley glass house with killer views
Surrounded by over 40 acres of lush grounds set amidst California’s world-class wine country, this striking architectural home goes by the name of Karinya.
The highly suitable moniker originates from the Australian aboriginal culture and is simply translated as “peaceful home.”
Image credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell Banker
Built in 2017, the stunning estate is nestled in the small community of Deer Park right next to St. Helena in Napa County.
Spanning 8,837 square feet, the impressive residence was built with natural materials, a deep connection to the valley’s views, and a design that boasts both beauty and luxury.
Not a detail is spared at Karinya, with many luxurious features such as endless walls of glass, a 2,000-bottle wine room, and an acoustically-designed media/ theater room.
Image credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell BankerImage credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell BankerImage credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell BankerImage credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell Banker
Fitting a modern dream house, it also comes with a detailed smart home system with mobile phone control access that controls the music, air conditioning, security and programmable LED recessed lighting in 11 separate zones and a fire sprinkler system.
See more of this lovely Napa Valley home here.
A modern mansion that was once featured in the Oscar-winning “La La Land” movie
Set in the popular Encino neighborhood of Los Angeles, this modern mansion offers an impressive cutting-edge design.
Photo credit: Compass
The six-bedroom home wows with its soaring ceilings and walls of glass that bring the outdoors in.
Complete with an infinity pool and spa (with a cascading waterfall) and a nifty pool/guest house with a sundeck for outdoor entertainment, the home is peppered with outdoor spots to relax and enjoy the lovely Cali weather.
In case you’re getting a strong sense of deja vu, this beautiful home was featured in the popular film, La La Land.
As the story goes, Mia (played by Emma Stone) and her friends attend a lavish party hoping to meet influential people in the business and finally get their lucky break.
You guessed it, this memorable movie scene was filmed at this gorgeous Los Angeles estate.
A celebrity chef’s former home with a massive kitchen anchored by a 24-foot stone island
Located in the coveted Via Bluffs enclave of Pacific Palisades, this modern mansion spans 6,500 square feet of luxurious living.
Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass
Offering massive sliding windows that open up to beautiful views of Potrero Canyon and beyond, the sumptuous five-bedroom, five-bathroom home is filled with natural light streaming in from the surrounding floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors, while the skylights pour even more light onto the main and top floors.
The Pacific Palisades property also flaunts features like a dual-faced fireplace, a nearly 24-foot kitchen island, and a distinct living room that’s pouring out onto the outside deck overlooking the pool.
A large open-layout living area is anchored by an impressive dream kitchen.
Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / CompassPhoto credit: credit: Smith Cho / CompassPhoto credit: credit: Smith Cho / CompassPhoto credit: credit: Smith Cho / CompassPhoto credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass
This beautiful home was once owned by celebrity chef, Everyday Italian, and Giada At Home star Giada de Laurentiis.
A beautiful modern mansion tucked in the Hollywood Hills
Built in 2019, this Marc Whipple-designed home is a true Hollywood gem.
Located on the glamorous Sunset Strip, in the Hollywood Hills West neighborhood of Los Angeles, this home oozes that clean-lined modernist approach, while still offering warmth and comfort.
Photo credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom Hunter
The posh property incorporates five bedrooms, six bathrooms, as well as two half-bathrooms, all with breathtaking views spreading from the Hollywood sign right to the Pacific Ocean.
The main entrance offers an open-concept kitchen and three terraces that total 5,000 additional square feet of outdoor living space.
And, the middle level features a second living room and a luxurious ‘floating glass box’ master suite.
Photo credit: Tom Hunter Photography.Photo credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom HunterPhoto credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom HunterPhoto credit: Tom Hunter Photography.Photo credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom Hunter
All the bedrooms offer easy access to the infinity pool, which provides stunning views of the surroundings and a perfect setting to enjoy summer nights and sunsets in complete privacy.
A Malibu gem that’s often rented to high-profile celebrities
This Malibu celeb magnet is the epitome of indoor-outdoor Cali living, featuring large glass walls that seamlessly blend the interior with the grounds.
Perched above the Pacific Ocean, the three-bedroom, three-bathroom, 2,100-square-foot Malibu mansion is every bit the modern gem.
Photo credit: Hagai Aharon
It’s the perfect property for entertaining, as it includes an infinity pool with fabulous ocean views, a spa, and a fire pit.
The entertainment continues inside, as the house includes not one, but three indoor fireplaces, as well as a media room, making sure you stay entertained throughout the entire year.
Amenities include everything you could possibly need, from in-unit laundry and air conditioning to five parking spaces, an outdoor patio, and a cabana.
The house not only rents out to celebrities such as Matthew Perry, Cardi B, and Taraji P. Henson, but it’s also owned by one.
Betty Moon, a celebrated Los Angeles musician, songwriter and producer, currently owns the plush property which she recently renovated before listing it for rent.
An impeccably designed modern mansion that embraces indoor-outdoor living
Located in the upscale neighborhood Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles, this three-story home was designed and built by renowned developer/designer duo David and Eliana Rokach.
Photo credit: The Agency
This multi-million dollar mansion offers a sprawling 13,543 square feet of modern living space and packs nine bedrooms and twelve bathrooms.
Boasting unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Canyon, the stunning estate offers an open-concept living/dining room finished in a chic, contemporary style.
The living room features custom-made electronic sliding steel doors that open to a beautiful outdoor area, which features a barbecue area, a grassy backyard, and an infinity-edge swimming pool opening up to views for miles.
Photo credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The AgencyPhoto credit: The Agency
A modern hillside lair with canyon views
Situated in Los Angeles’ coveted Brentwood neighborhood, this hillside lair with expansive living spaces, eco-friendly details, and ultra-high-end finishes gives us serious dream house goals.
Photo credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of Compass
The main entrance features a Japanese-imported Yakisugi front door and bonsai adorned atrium that leads to the open-concept living space.
Here, a chic palette of luxurious stone and reflective glass is accented by unique designer details, and floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light throughout the day.
Photo credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of CompassPhoto credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of Compass
Offering sweeping views of the canyon, the four-bedroom home comes equipped with the latest technology for entertainment, comfort, and sustainability.
This includes a full automation system, Lutron Solar System lighting, home theater and surround sound from Bang & Olufsen, a home gym, and much more.
More stories you might like
The One mansion saga: from a $500M listing to its $141M auction sale The Architect of Hollywood: the Irresistible Appeal of Paul Williams-Designed Homes What Are Spec Homes? A Recent History & the Biggest, Boldest Spec Mansions to Come to Life Massive Home in the Sky Above MoMa Asks $46.7 Million
In 2022, Southern California real estate once again lived up to its reputation as one of the weirdest, wildest, most dramatic markets in the country.
While the lower end of the market cooled as interest rates forced buyers and sellers to rethink their strategies, the luxury market raged on with significantly more blockbuster sales than last year.
Celebrities, tech moguls and CEOs spent fortunes on their dream homes. Battles were waged over the profits of mega-mansions. Here are the top sales of the year.
Advertisement
$58 million
The 21,000-square-foot home sits on 3.5 acres with two Rocky Balboa statues and views of the city below.
(Simon Berlyn)
Sylvester Stallone kicked things off by selling his 21,000-square-foot mega-mansion in Beverly Park for $58 million — a blockbuster deal, but not quite a knockout for the “Rocky” star, who originally wanted $110 million for the trophy home.
The high-profile sale included a high-profile buyer: pop star Adele. She joins a bevy of stars in the affluent enclave including Denzel Washington, Magic Johnson and Mark Wahlberg.
$70 million
The three-story home sits on a knoll overlooking the Sunset Strip.
(Google Earth)
Michael Rubin, the chief executive of sports e-commerce company Fanatics, set an all-time record in Hollywood Hills when he shelled out $70 million for a property once owned by Ronald Reagan.
The sale redefined what a home could fetch in Hollywood Hills, which has historically seen sales top out in the $30-million range. The staggering price was due to the estate’s rare size and scale. Newly rebuilt, it sits on three-quarters of an acre above the Sunset Strip with unobstructed views of the city.
Records show the seller was Francesco Aquilini, a Canadian businessman best known as the chairman of the Vancouver Canucks hockey team. A regular in real estate headlines, he set the neighborhood’s previous price record when he sold a spec mansion for $42.5 million in 2020.
$70.4 million
Built on a bluff, the estate comes with a four-bedroom villa, swimming pool, spa, cabana and meditation deck.
(Adrian Van Anz)
Kim Kardashian got in on the action as well, buying yet another home in Southern California. The reality TV star has owned properties in Hidden Hills and Calabasas but picked up one in Malibu this time, spending $70.4 million on a bluff-top mansion once owned by Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber.
Set on more than 3 acres overlooking the ocean, the coastal estate centers on a 7,450-square-foot villa surrounded by a swimming pool, tennis court and meditation deck.
It was sold by hedge-fund manager Adam Weiss and “Yellowstone” actress Barret Swatek, who originally asked $99.5 million for the place.
$75 million
The 20,000-square-foot home includes 10 bedrooms, 22 bathrooms, a tennis court and mosaic-tile pool.
(Google Earth)
For months, rumors swirled on where Drake — perhaps the world’s biggest hip-hop star — would buy a home. The rapper toured the finest estates of Southern California but eventually settled for something off-market, quietly paying $75 million for a Beverly Crest mansion owned by fellow music star Robbie Williams.
Drake’s new place is comically large, clocking in at more than 20,000 square feet on more than 20 acres — a rarity for the area. Across those 20,000 square feet, it manages to squeeze in 10 bedrooms and a staggering 22 bathrooms, as well as an elevator, wine cellar, gym, game room and 11-car garage.
$91 million
The 6.6-acre spread descends to 340 feet of beach frontage.
(Daniel Tacconelli)
Malibu’s massive year continued thanks to video game designer Jon Burton, who sold his 6.6-acre spread in Paradise Cove for $91 million — a nice improvement on the $36.5 million he paid for it in 2012, but a bit less than the $125 million he originally wanted.
The price jump is mainly thanks to a face-lift Burton gave the place during his decade-long stay. Listing photos show he remodeled the living spaces with rich woods and large windows, as well as amenities such as a movie theater, tennis court, swimming pool and mini golf course.
The biggest highlight comes out back, where the 17,000-square-foot mansion descends to 340 feet of beach frontage.
$100 million
The 3.5-acre spread includes a main house, two guesthouses, tennis court and private path that descends to 208 feet of beach frontage.
(Adrian Anz)
Only three sales surpassed the $100-million threshold this year, and one of them belonged to Tamara Gustavson, daughter of late Public Storage founder B. Wayne Hughes. She wanted $127.5 million for her sprawling compound on a Malibu bluff and sold it for $100 million.
The buyer, records show, is Byron Allen, the billionaire media mogul who founded Entertainment Studios.
The stunning spread has the usual laundry list of amenities but adds a few custom spaces such as a wood-and-glass guesthouse outfitted with a gym and yoga studio.
The profits are a drop in the bucket for Gustavson, who has a net worth of $7.59 billion, according to Bloomberg.
$120 million
The 2.6-acre estate sits across the street from the Playboy Mansion in Holmby Hills.
(Google Earth)
Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel finally closed his deal in Holmby Hills, spending $120 million on a property across the street from the Playboy Mansion. The sale process started last year, but he couldn’t close until the summer because the house wasn’t yet finished.
With the move, Spiegel joins one of the ritziest pockets in the country. The Playboy Mansion is the neighborhood’s most famous estate, but the area also holds iconic homes such as Owlwood and the Manor, which set the L.A. County price record at the time when it traded hands for $119.75 million in 2019.
$141 million
After years of construction, a foreclosure and a bankruptcy, the Bel-Air mega-mansion known as “The One” sold for $141 million.
(Marc Angeles)
What more can be said of “The One”? When the country’s largest modern home was auctioned off for $141 million to the founder of Fashion Nova, it brought an end to a years-long saga of ambition and greed, a battle that’s been documented over and over again but remains hard to believe.
Once touted as a $500-million home, then listed as a $295-million home, then sold at a foreclosure auction as a $141-million home, the still-unfinished mega-mansion comes in as both a crowning achievement and utter disappointment. It ranks as the top sale of the year, and one of the priciest home sales ever in California, but couldn’t fetch anywhere near its original price, and leaves the buyer with millions more to spend to finish up the place.
In many ways, The One is the perfect encapsulation of Southern California’s luxury market, where developers chase bigger and bigger price tags for bigger and bigger homes until, oftentimes, it all blows up in a dramatic display for all to see.