When you purchased your first home, it likely checked off all the boxes. But over time, perhaps your lifestyle has changed and your family has grown, and now you’ve started asking yourself, “Should I buy a bigger house?” Whether you’re looking for larger bedrooms, expanded family space or more storage solutions, buying a bigger home — or even just moving to a different layout or location — might be a change you’re ready to make.
Scott Bridges, Senior Managing Director of Consumer Direct Lending at Pennymac, says that upsizing happens frequently. He explains that a “healthy percentage of buyers are looking to buy up for space, neighborhood, school district and work proximity reasons. It’s a great pursuit and one of the more exciting chapters in one’s homeownership journey.”
Here’s how to figure out if you’ve outgrown your current home and how to determine how big a house you actually need.
The Signs You’ve Outgrown Your Home
While starting a new chapter in a bigger home may sound appealing, moving is a big decision that can come with a hefty price tag. How do you know if you’ve really outgrown your house? Bridges says the following are some of the most important items to consider.
Physical Aspects
One of the first things you’ll want to assess is the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you have versus the number you need. Bridges notes, “If your family is growing, if you have kids or parents moving in, you will need additional space for the new members of the household.”
Evolving household dynamics can also change your idea of an optimal home layout. If you currently have a one-story home, do you want to move to a two-story residence or vice versa? Do you want your children’s bedrooms on the same floor as yours? Do you need a separate entrance and living area for mom and dad or grandma and grandpa?
You’ll also want to think about your outdoor space. Bridges recommends asking yourself how much space you’ll need. For example, will you want to entertain, maybe have a pool, how much yard would you like to manage? All things to consider when looking to buy a bigger house.
Future Plans
Even if you’re comfortable in your home right now, do you foresee life events on the horizon that may lead to things getting cramped? Think carefully about your future plans and determine if they align with your current living environment. Consider the following:
Will you be having more children or expanding your family?
How long will your kids be living in the house before they leave for college or work?
Will you need a larger garage or driveway as your children get their driver’s licenses?
Do you envision an elderly parent moving in with you at some point?
Your answers to these questions will help you decide if moving to a bigger home is right for you.
Daily Life
Your home’s physical size may be the primary factor when deciding if you’ve outgrown it, but there are other lifestyle factors to consider as well. For example, do you have a short or a long commute from your current home? Bridges points out, “Most people don’t want to add significant time to their commute, even if it is for a larger home.” Others, however, may feel a longer commute is an adequate trade-off for increased space.
Or maybe you aren’t commuting as much because you work or attend school from home. Could a dedicated work area in a larger home reduce distractions?
Consider, too, the benefits and drawbacks of your present location. Even if you love your neighborhood, perhaps you want to move to a quiet, traffic-minimal cul-de-sac. Or maybe you’d like to be within walking distance of stores, restaurants or public transportation.
Quality of life is key. If your current home is causing you stress and not providing you the comfort you need, it may be time to upsize. Bridges urges, “Carefully think about how much better your day could potentially be with more space, a bigger kitchen, larger yard and more rooms.”
Considerations for Staying Put
There are many reasons why you may want or need to move to a bigger house. But that increase in square footage will likely increase your expenses and responsibilities. Here are a few reasons why staying put may be a better option for some homeowners.
Difficulty Finding a Home in Your Ideal Location
Depending on your desired location, a larger home in your price range may be difficult to find. If you want to remain in the same neighborhood or school district, you’ll have to decide whether moving away from your preferred area for a bigger space is worth the sacrifice.
Higher Costs Beyond the Mortgage
Even if you can comfortably afford your down payment and monthly mortgage payment, there are other expenses you’ll need to consider when moving to a bigger house. “If you live in an area with colder winters, understand your heating costs will go up,” Bridges says. “In a warmer climate, think Arizona and Texas in the summer, AC costs can run very high electric bills in bigger homes.”
Increased Responsibilities
A larger home requires more interior and exterior upkeep. There’s more to clean, furnish, repair, landscape and maintain, which takes time, money and energy.
Not a Guaranteed Investment
If you’re purchasing a home based on an anticipated greater return on investment, keep in mind that real estate values can be unpredictable. There’s no guarantee that your larger home will increase in value when you’re ready to sell.
Commute
Housing costs are often less the further you move away from city centers, giving you more bang for your real estate buck. But if it takes you longer to get to your job, the added time, hassles and transportation expenses may not be worth it. Bridges notes, “If you’re extending your commute to live in a bigger house in the suburbs, the drive may be just too hard.”
Financial Tips for Buying a Larger Home on a Budget
Moving involves a considerable amount of expense, stress and time. Many people try to avoid it by buying a home that will meet their needs for many years to come. However, it’s also important not to buy a house bigger than what you really need. Maintenance requirements, increased utility bills and expensive mortgage payments can be significant burdens. When purchasing a home, how can you be prepared for a growing family without overstretching your budget? Here are a few tips.
Anticipate Costs
Try your best to forecast the additional costs of a bigger home. “When you buy a larger home, you can easily anticipate your mortgage, taxes and insurance costs increasing, but many people don’t anticipate the additional costs of a larger home,” Bridges explains. “Your utilities will be more expensive, lawn and landscaping and amenities like pools will increase your monthly expenses as well. Lastly, repair costs can be much more expensive on bigger homes. Think of a roof replacement on a 2,000 square foot house versus a 4,000 square foot house.”
Consider Your Income and Employment Stability
While more space may support your plans, Bridges stresses that stability of income and employment must be part of the discussion when considering moving to a larger home. Your household income will need to cover the higher costs of owning a bigger house — now and in the days ahead.
Rent Out Your Original House for Income
It may make sense to sell your current home and use the proceeds for the down payment. But if you don’t have to do that, consider keeping it as a rental. Some homeowners move to a bigger home while renting out their old home, creating what can be a lucrative income stream in the future. Bridges advises, “Depending on how much you owe on your house, sometimes it makes sense to keep the original house and rent it out, as it can represent a good income source in the long run. Over time, real estate tends to appreciate and rents tend to rise, so holding the property as a rental can add to your overall wealth as the years go by.”
What to Look Out for When You’re Ready to Buy a Bigger House
Moving to a larger home is a significant change and takes careful thought. If you’re ready to upsize, think about how your prospective new home could adapt as your needs evolve. Bridges says that during the buying stage, homeowners with growing families often look for the following:
Bedrooms on the same floor
A bigger kitchen, a nursery or a media room
Backyard space for kids and pets
A better school district, which generally speaking, impacts home value stability
Want to start your new home search now? See how much your current home is worth, and then go beyond home affordability calculators to determine how much house you can actually afford.
Are You Ready to Move to a Larger Home?
So, should you move to a bigger home? “Every buyer has to make their own decision, as their circumstances vary,” Bridges says. Moving may be challenging, and selling is a process, but he adds, “At the end of the day, buying a bigger home might be one of the more memorable and enjoyable things you can do in your life, so don’t wait too long, if you can!”
Choosing a home that is the right size for your life today and tomorrow involves balancing both your family needs and your budget. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a larger home and are looking for expert guidance in the mortgage loan process, get a custom instant rate quote from Pennymac today.
Conference call to be webcast live at 2 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. ET
SEATTLE, Oct. 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Zillow Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: Z and ZG) announced today it will release third-quarter 2023 financial results after market close on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023. The company will host a conference call and webcast to discuss its results that afternoon at 2 p.m. PT / 5 p.m. ET.
Information about Zillow Group’s financial results, including a link to the live webcast and recorded replay, will be available on the company’s Investor Relations website at: https://investors.zillowgroup.com/investors/financials/quarterly-results/default.aspx
Please register in advance at https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=cf4e1e3a&confId=45408 to receive emailed instructions to access the live conference call. This pre-registration process is designed to reduce delays due to operator congestion when accessing the live call.
For more information about Zillow Group, please visit https://investors.zillowgroup.com.
About Zillow Group Zillow Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: Z and ZG) is reimagining real estate to make home a reality for more and more people. As the most visited real estate website in the United States, Zillow and its affiliates help people find and get the home they want by connecting them with digital solutions, great partners, and easier buying, selling, financing and renting experiences.
Zillow Group’s affiliates, subsidiaries and brands include Zillow®; Zillow Premier Agent®; Zillow Home Loans℠; Trulia®; Out East®; StreetEasy®; HotPads®; and ShowingTime+℠, which includes ShowingTime®, Bridge Interactive®, and dotloop®.
Nestled within the heart of the Lone Star State, Dallas stands as a testament to sophistication and modernity. Within this vibrant Texan city lies a world of luxury homes, each adorned with a distinctive set of features that encapsulate the essence of high-end living. From sleek, modern designs that seamlessly blend with the urban landscape to timeless estates nestled in the tranquil outskirts, Dallas boasts an array of sought-after elements that define the luxury real estate market.
Whether you’re considering living in Dallas or searching for a home in the city, you’ll be captivated by the myriad of amenities and features the luxury market offers. From breathtaking panoramic views to updated kitchens equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, join us as we delve into the world of the most coveted luxury home features in Dallas.
Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in Dallas
Preston Hollow, Highland Park, University Park, Bluffview, and Devonshire are all areas in the Dallas housing market known for their luxury homes with high-end features where homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices.
Highland Park and University Park top the list for most expensive markets, with homes selling for a median price of nearly $3.2 million and $2.7 million, respectively. The high price tag is for good reason as these homes feature meticulously crafted architecture, spacious interiors, and upscale finishes. Tree-lined streets, manicured gardens, and proximity to cultural amenities characterize these exclusive areas, offering a blend of prestige and comfortable sophistication.
Homes in Preston Hollow, known for their sprawling estates, lush landscapes, and architectural grandeur, saw a median sale price of nearly $1.3 million. Bluffview homes, with a median sale price of almost $2 million, exude timeless charm, featuring elegant designs, scenic vistas, and lush surroundings.
1. High-end finishes
High-end finishes are a popular luxury home feature in Dallas. Expect fine marble or hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, and top-tier appliances in gourmet kitchens. Spa-like bathrooms feature deluxe fixtures, soaking tubs, and spacious walk-in showers. Intricate crown molding and coffered ceilings adorn living spaces, while smart home systems offer advanced automation. Expansive windows invite natural light and reveal manicured outdoor spaces with lavish pools and landscaping. These homes often showcase grand entrances, wine cellars, and entertainment areas, combining upscale materials and meticulous craftsmanship for an unmatched luxurious living experience.
2. Top-of-the-line appliances
Luxury homes in Dallas are adorned with top-of-the-line appliances that redefine culinary excellence. Gourmet kitchens showcase brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Miele, elevating cooking to an art form. Indulge in professional-grade ranges, built-in espresso makers, and wine refrigerators that cater to the connoisseur’s desires.
3. Backyard oasis
You’ll often find that a backyard oasis in Dallas, TX, is a common home feature among luxury homes, often featuring amenities like a resort-style pool with cascading waterfall, soothing spa, and lush landscaping. Alfresco kitchens, fireplaces, and lounges create spaces for leisure and entertaining. High-end finishes, like premium outdoor furniture and artistic lighting, enhance the ambiance. Thoughtful design elements offer privacy, such as elegant pergolas or tall hedges, and the inclusion of natural rock features adds an organic touch, seamlessly blending opulence with nature. This sanctuary goes beyond a typical yard, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, and providing a serene escape from the city’s bustle in a lavish, harmonious setting.
4. Media room
A staple of luxury homes in Dallas, the media room offers an immersive escape into entertainment opulence. Thoughtfully designed for cinematic experiences, it boasts state-of-the-art audiovisual systems, oversized screens, and plush seating, akin to a private theater. Custom acoustic treatments ensure optimal sound quality. Smart technology allows effortless control of lighting, sound, and streaming services. This dedicated space goes beyond mere movie nights, offering a haven for sports enthusiasts and gaming aficionados. The media room encapsulates the modern definition of leisure, inviting residents to revel in high-end comfort and endless entertainment possibilities within the confines of their prestigious Dallas abode.
5. Smart home features
Smart home technology is a popular luxury home feature because it provides homeowners with a sense of convenience and security. A state-of-the-art smart security system, complete with remote-access cameras, provides peace of mind through real-time monitoring and control, ensuring the safety of the residence even from afar.
Heated floors epitomize comfort and luxury, offering a warm embrace during chillier months. A personalized coffee bar adds a touch of everyday indulgence, allowing residents to start their day with bespoke brews tailored to their preferences.
These features reflect a lifestyle that seamlessly integrates technology into the fabric of daily life, enhancing comfort and efficiency. The ability to manage security, climate, and amenities remotely through intuitive interfaces elevates the living experience.
6. Location
For luxury homeowners, location is paramount. Proximity to cultural hotspots, fine dining, and premium amenities is essential for providing the convenience homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices for. Large lots offer seclusion and the potential for personalized outdoor sanctuaries, complementing opulent interiors. These factors harmonize to create a refined environment that not only showcases the residence itself but also extends a sense of community and the promise of lasting value in the competitive realm of luxury real estate in Dallas.
7. Landscaped grounds
Luxury homes in Dallas boast captivating views of meticulously landscaped grounds, where nature becomes a living masterpiece. Expansive windows frame scenes of lush gardens, serene water features, and manicured lawns, seamlessly merging indoor and outdoor aesthetics. These vistas not only infuse each space with natural beauty but also offer a sense of tranquility and connection to the environment. Whether enjoyed from the comfort of elegant living areas or from private terraces, these stellar views accentuate the opulent living experience.
Luxury home features in Dallas: final thoughts
These exceptional features stand as testament to a lifestyle where elegance, innovation, and comfort are woven together seamlessly. From media rooms that transport you to cinematic realms to backyard oasis that merge nature’s beauty with architectural brilliance, these luxury home features enhance the lifestyle and elevate the experience of homeownership.
If you’re in the market for a luxury home, your Redfin Premier agent is equipped to offer valuable insights into the local market, including insight into the neighborhoods, highly sought-after amenities, pricing trends, and available luxury properties.
This talk show host, furniture designer, renovation expert, and forgetful blue fish has just put her Santa Barbara home on the market, and it’s gorgeous. Of course, it’s also listed for $45 million, so maybe don’t get too attached.
The Tuscan-influence mansion is 10,500 square feet, including 6 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, 9 fireplaces, multiple libraries, and a media room. It was originally built in the 1930s buy architect Wallace Frost, who was inspired by his time in Italy, something that’s obvious thanks to custom stonework and rugged exposed beams.
The location sure doesn’t hurt either. Along with the 16+ acres come mountain, ocean, and harbor views.
Step into a world where sleek lines, open spaces, and a harmonious marriage of form and function reign supreme.
Mid-century may be a classic style from the mid-1900s, but homes built in this style have a timeless appeal. With their distinct architectural features — which often include flat roofs, horizontal planes, and geometric shapes — they embrace simplicity, functionality, and a seamless integration with the surrounding environment.
Nature and lifestyle were key when designing mid-century houses, so many of them were built with floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the yard, sliding glass doors, and many access points to the outdoors.
Incorporating clean lines and basic shapes, simple furnishings, a practical Scandinavian approach with muted color palette, and warm inviting earth tones, simplicity is a notable characteristic of mid-century design. Mid-century modern homes also used spaces efficiently with their split-level design, which makes it easy to see why the this architectural style continues to fascinate with both its practicality and its aesthetic appeal.
Our favorite midcentury modern houses
For those who want to immerse themselves in the world of midcentury beauties, we’ve rounded up our favorites. Carefully restored by their owners while preserving their original character and incorporating modern amenities and technologies, we believe the examples below have done a great job at striking a balance between maintaining the historical integrity of the house and making it functional for contemporary living.
Without further ado, here are 13 stylishly refreshed-yet-classic mid-century modern houses that we’ve covered in the past, many of which had some quite famous owners (or architects).
#1 A secluded mid-century modern home with unique features and views of lush surroundings
There is so much to love about this Santa Clarita property — which was home to ‘Dallas’ Star Linda Gray for almost FIVE decades. Named Oak Tree Ranch after the stunning oak trees that grow on the property, the private California compound has many unique features.
Designed by acclaimed architect A. Quincy Jones, the mid-century house is unquestionably elegant and captivating. True to the principle of bringing the outside in, the floor is made of heart pine, (meaning the heart of the pine tree), sourced from a New Orleans schoolhouse.
The freestanding fireplace is another unique feature of this property. The kitchen was designed by renowned architect Josh Schweitzer who added beautiful racks to hang pots and pans out in the open, pro-style appliances, and a pizza oven.
Sitting on 2.7 acres of lush land, the property has stables for four horses, a tack room/barn, a north-south tennis court, a large swimmer’s pool with spa, organic gardens, koi pond, chicken coop, and an endless lawn to enjoy the outdoors.
#2 This mid-century modern home built by Steele & Van Dyk resembles a semi-secluded paradise
The 8.86-acre property located in the Sonoma County town of Sebastopol is one of the most spectacular (and most lovingly preserved) mid-century homes you’ll find.
It was once owned by Charles M. Schulz, the creator of the beloved comic strip Peanuts and his children have fond memories of the property, which was used by their father as a creative studio.
There were several lots on the original 27-acre property such as Schulz’ main house, his grandmother’s house, a large pond, a baseball field, a miniature golf course, a large swimming pool, an enclosed entertainment pavilion, and his studio, all surrounded by vineyards and apple orchards.
The family who bought the property after Charles Schulz’ ownership made a few changes to the studio but made sure not to alter the nature of the design.
They renovated the studio and turned it into an inviting one-bedroom home which operated as a licensed vacation rental for a few years.
True to the architecture of mid-century modern houses, the former art studio has clean lines, minimal decoration, and large, flat panes of glass windows and doors which allow a connection with nature.
With the home surrounded by natural beauty, you’ll find a four-hole golf course, Redwoods groves, and walking trails lined with numerous rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, dogwoods, several varieties of ferns, fruit trees, and plenty of flowers.
#3 One of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s last projects, a mid-century masterpiece
Sitting on 14 acres of protected land in New Canaan, Conn., we find one of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s final projects, built in 1955, just a few years before his death in 1959.
Known as Tirranna — a moniker inspired by an Australian Aboriginal word meaning “running waters”, as the home is cantilevered over a pond and overlooks a waterfall on the Noroton River — the property is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s largest residential properties.
The architect also lived here while building the Guggenheim Museum and even used some of the scalloped glass windows from the Guggenheim Museum project to complete the home’s south-facing greenhouse.
Clocking in at a generous 7,000 square feet, the 7-bedroom, 8.5-bath home blends geometric complexity with nature’s flowing curves, in typical Frank Lloyd Wright style.
Throughout the home, the architect combined and contrasted soaring ceilings and open living spaces with cozy and cocoon-like mahogany-paneled bedrooms.
The home’s functional wood-paneled and stainless-steel kitchen epitomizes the mid-century modern aesthetic, while each of the bathrooms are spa-like and adorned with spectacular wood panels and unique features.
#4 A Mid-century home in Palo Alto that has maintained the integrity of its original design
This mid-century modern home is so simple that it reads as sophisticated.
It bears the signature of internationally recognized architect and Frank Lloyd Wright protégé Aaron Green. The 3-bed, 2-bath home features extensive use of mahogany, slab floors with radiant heat, built-in beds, desks and dressers, and Formica counters.
With flat roofs, both the exterior and interior have a clean and functional design. Inside the home, there is minimal decoration and the various cabinetry adds depth and variation in elevation.
The large windows give magnetic views of the yard. All in all, a gorgeous home updated for modern living while still retaining its mid-century authenticity.
#5 One of the most spectacular mid-century modern houses with a Moroccan theme and great views of the Coachella Valley
This stylish home is located in a compound in Rancho Mirage’s Thunderbird Heights — a prestigious gated hillside community adjacent to Thunderbird Country Club.
The mid-century home was custom-built for famous entertainer Bing Crosby and his second wife, Kathryn Grant, and was an absolutely perfect fit for its celebrity owner who loved to live large.
Among its most striking features, Bing Crosby’s former home lists a large living room with a stone fireplace and bar, a chef’s kitchen, a movie theater, and a beautiful and spacious 1,400-sq. foot master suite with a stunner of a walk-in closet and a fireplace, as well as four additional en-suite bedrooms.
Spread over 1.36 acres of land, the phenomenal home has approximately 6,700 square feet of living space that extend into the outdoor areas.
The home’s most famous guests, though, were definitely Marilyn Monroe and John F. Kennedy. In honor of their stay there, the two-bedroom attached casita has been named the JFK Wing.
#6 An architectural gem with mesmerizing views of its lush surroundings and direct entrance to Rustic Canyon Park
Set in Los Angeles, this mid-century home designed by notable architect David Hyun has formerly been the residence of prominent entertainment lawyer Gary Concoff and his wife Jean.
The house dubbed ‘the Modern Tree House’ has large floor-to-ceiling windows which provide scenic views of the century-old trees that surround it and encourage a sense of harmony with the outdoor spaces it’s built around. The combination of the large windows and open floor plans let in a lot of beautiful natural light into the two-story home.
Notable features on the lower level of the house include an eat-in Eggersman kitchen, a full-service bar, a formal powder room, and three bedrooms. The distinctive spiral staircase leads to the primary suite upstairs fitted with generously sized closets as well as two separate offices and a large den/media room.
The massive backyard of the nearly quarter-acre property features a large swimming pool, a unique area for dining set amongst the trees, and a gate directly into Rustic Canyon Park, said to be one of the best parks in Los Angeles.
#7 The lovely mid-century modern house Richard Neutra designed for his secretary
One of the most impressive celebrity homes on our list, Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea’s house is made out of two architecturally significant structures: The first is a modern heptagon-shaped house designed by AD100 architect Michael Maltzan and the other is a lovely midcentury-style house built by famed architect Richard Neutra in the early 1950s.
Clocking in at 1,350 sq ft, the midcentury-style home has 2 bedrooms, and one bath, and is surrounded by walls of glass.
The home was built by Richard Neutra for his secretary, Dorothy Serulnic and her husband, George, back in 1953. Neutra, one of the most influential architects of the twentieth century, made sure that his secretary’s home is as livable and comfortable as it is visually appealing.
He designed several built-ins including a sofa system with a record player and concealed speakers, multiple desks, shelving systems, a dining room table, and a sliding breakfast nook, which are still present in the house today (or, rather, were still there when Flea tried offloading his La Crescenda compound a while back).
Architect Michael Maltzan then built a dramatic, seven-sided house on the property half a century later. The spaceship-like house 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.
A small cabin built by artist and craftsman Peter Staley provides a little extra space for guests and an eye-grabbing feature.
#8 Master architect Richard Dorman’s award-winning home, the Seidenbaum Residence
Tucked away down a long private driveway into a quiet, secluded compound we find architect Richard Dorman’s Seidenbaum Residence.
With its timeless appeal and unique design, the home is nestled in the Hollywood Hills on Mulholland Drive, overlooking outstanding views of the San Fernando Valley and the Hollywood sign.
Spanning 3,198 square feet, the five-bedroom, three-bathroom home has two peaked roofs and clerestory windows that capture the California sunshine inside the main living area.
Boasting an open-concept layout, the home blends mid-century and modern designs. From the dining and main living areas to the kitchen, the fluid design captures a sense of tranquility amid the walls of glass that draw in the natural light.
Providing warmth and intimacy, the see-through, double-sided fireplace is a show-stopper in the great room.
#9 This elegant home with a zen factor beautifully remodeled for modern-day living
Originally built in 1955, this home offers a fresh, contemporary take on the timeless midcentury style. Esteemed architectural firm OWIU (which stands for the only way is up) updated the property, building on its mid-century modern legacy.
The 1,516-square-foot home is in Mount Washington, a historic neighborhood in the San Rafael Hills of Northeast Los Angeles. It has bright, warm interiors, and is filled with the natural finish of attractive light oak wood.
The house — which has retained its original charm —is all about comfort, timeless design, and an approachable elegance.Kane Lim from the popular reality show Bling Empire was once the owner of this beautiful property.
It has all the standard features of a mid-century home and then some,with floor-to-ceiling windows, clean lines, breathtaking views, and a deck in the primary suite that leads to a Japanese-style garden with bonsai and maple trees.
The house’s exterior has fresh pathways and gardening beds, a gate that leads to the lower portion of the property, and a large open space that has a sculptural staircase and custom wood bench surrounding a fire pit.
#10 A charming, thoughtfully updated former celebrity home on a quiet hilltop
On a quiet hilltop right above the famed Mulholland Drive sits a 4-bedroom hilltop hideaway once owned by power couple Emily Blunt and John Krasinski.
The secluded, single-level mid-century home has a large open plan design and walls of glass that allow light to enter rooms from multiple angles.
With soaring, beamed ceilings, wide plank hardwoods, and original stonework, the living room is as eye-catching as it is inviting and features a gas fireplace.
The primary bedroom suite is one of the main highlights of this home and it looks and feels like a retreat in itself. With its vaulted, beamed ceilings, and massive windows inviting the outdoors in, a sitting area, custom built-ins, a walk-in closet, and a marble-clad ensuite bath with a soaking tub and steam shower, it truly is a stylish and elegant space.
The flagstone patio is surrounded by mature oak and olive trees and features a bubbling fountain, making it a great place to relax and soak in the picturesque views of mountains, the canyon, and the slivers of the city skyline.
#11 A spectacular stilt house with jaw-dropping views and a unique taste of Los Angeles history
Nestled in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, this is one of 17 unique homes propped up over the side of the Beverly Glen Canyon. The mid-century house was tastefully modernized by its previous owner, acclaimed architect Donald M. Goldstein. It’s undoubtedly a part of architecture history in Los Angeles.
Known as Neutra’s Platform Houses because they were originally designed by legendary architect Richard Neutra, these gravity-defying homes are incredible. Also known as the Stone-Fisher Speculative Houses (as they were built for the Stone-Fisher development company), the unique abodes were later completed by architect William S. Beckett.
The one-story home creates the illusion of a floating vessel in the sky. The unique structure has a rectangular form, horizontal emphasis, long balconies stretching the full width of the house, and large windows to display magnificent views of the San Fernando Valley.
Some of the notable features of the 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home include pyramid skylights, raised ceiling and roof lines, a 300+ bottle wine cellar, a Roman soaking tub, and its black metal exterior is coated with a 24-gauge Kynar finish.
#12 A classic mid-century house in a prime location with a long list of past celebrity owners
The star-studded Los Angeles Tree House — carefully tucked away from prying eyes in the famous Mulholland Drive — has attracted names like Ellen DeGeneres, Heath Ledger, and Hunger Games star Josh Hutcherson as its owners.
The charming home with its lush surroundings is as serene as it is private. Inside, the clean mid-century modern style is warmed by a blend of natural textures, with walls of glass opening the home to the beautifully landscaped outdoors.
The home’s most extraordinary feature is its expansive 2,500-square-foot outdoor deck which is pretty phenomenal.
It overlooks the leafy treetops illuminated with ethereal lights at night and is furnished with an outdoor grill, lots of seating areas, and an open-air screening room with a retractable projection screen.
#13 A two-story mid-century gem in Bel Air with artsy appeal
Set in a quiet cul-de-sac, the 5,134-square-foot mid-century modern home features 5 bedrooms and 4 baths and has been fitted with everything from stone counters to auto window shades, radiant limestone floors, and high-end SS Thermador appliances.
The two-story Bel-Air home features dramatic vaulted ceilings that soar over the living, dining, and family rooms.
With its seamless indoor/outdoor living, scenic surroundings and the floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that are popular in mid-century modern houses, the house is flooded with natural light.
The home’s interior is stylishly refreshed with inviting warm-toned furnishings providing a relaxing and enriching experience, with art and pops of color accenting its midcentury aesthetic.
Midcentury modern houses continue to captivate and inspire with their timeless charm and architectural elegance. From their clean lines and expansive windows to their innovative use of materials, these houses represent a design movement that has left an indelible mark on the world of architecture, one that will continue to attract homeowners and renovators for years to come.
Especially since, as we’ve seen with the examples listed above, updating these midcentury gems creates true masterpieces.
Lamar Odom, former basketball player and ex-husband of Khloe Kardashian, has put his long-time Miami estate on the market.
He originally bought the property in 2003, just before his first and only season playing for the Miami Heat. Over his 14 season career, he went on to play for the Lakers, the Clippers, and the Mavericks and wed (and divorced) a Kardashian. After all that, it’s no wonder he could use a fresh start.
This 8,557 square foot pad comes with 6 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, a media room, a pool and spa, and (of course) a basketball court. All that will set you back $5.2 million.
In sunny Malibu, a newly developed neighborhood is shaping up to become the priciest and most exclusive community in the country. Dubbed The Case, the five-home, guard-gated community sits on a 24-acre bluff that’s hailed as one of Malibu’s absolute best locations.
So much so, that developer Scott Gillen paid $50 million for the land alone back in 2017, breaking local records: it was the highest price ever paid for undeveloped land in the city.
On his newly acquired land, Gillen set out to build 5 extraordinary homes, each priced between $70 million and $115 million. The first fully completed home at The Case in Malibu was the 10,527-square-foot The Edge, which landed on the market with a bang at the beginning of the year — asking $70 million.
Now, it’s time for us to take a look at another spectacular house from Gillen’s ambitious project: the $95 million Butterfly House.
Named after its butterfly roof, the striking luxury home offers more than 10,000 square feet of ultra-luxurious living space and sits on 3 flat acres of prime Malibu land with unparalleled ocean views.
Related: 17 Biggest celebrities that live in Malibu & their million-dollar homes
“The Butterfly is located at the end of Case Court overlooking the Malibu Colony and Surfrider Beach and you can see the surf breaking, with entire Santa Monica Bay unfolding with views that extend to Palos Verdes and Catalina Island with twinkling city lights at night,” developer Scott Gillen said of his newly-unveiled project, adding that “The Case is literally 2 minutes from the best shopping and dining in Malibu and the design and construction of the homes at The Case are incomparable.”
Combining world-class, modern architecture with the surrounding natural beauty of the Malibu cliffs and coastline, the Butterfly House is the epitome of luxury living in an idyllic coastal setting.
Perched on the tip of a 24-acre promontory to provide panoramic views of the Malibu coastline and vistas of the famous Queen’s Necklace, the property is accessed via two sets of guarded gates that lead visitors and future residents onto a 250-foot driveway.
All in all, the luxury property has a total of 7 bedrooms and 8 baths, spread across the main house (which has 4 en-suite bedrooms) and a separate guest house.
The open-concept great room seamlessly combines the kitchen, family, and living room, creating an inviting space for relaxation and entertainment. The custom Bulthaup kitchen has been equipped with Gaggenau and Miele appliances and features a separate prep kitchen, perfect for cooking enthusiasts.
The Butterfly House’s dramatic primary suite is a true sanctuary, featuring a cozy fireplace, a luxurious bathroom with poured terrazzo floors, a massive, oversized closet, and even a private outdoor spa. An additional media room provides extra entertainment space.
Adding to its Iron Man house vibes, the Butterfly House also features a gym and bathroom below the pool area and an underground 3-car garage with a motor court capable of accommodating over a dozen vehicles.
Heading outside, we find a massive 133-foot infinity pool that makes the most out of its oceanside location and that comes with a spa and fire features.
Listed for $95 million with Westside Estate Agency’s Stephen Shapiro and Kurt Rappaport (the agent who reportedly arranged Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s record-breaking $200 million Malibu house purchase just a few months back) this extraordinary home is one of California’s priciest listings.
Surpassed only by a handful of properties, including another Malibu showstopper — former Disney CEO Michael Eisner’s estate, listed for $195 million (!) — and late TV producer Aaron Spelling’s The Manor, listed for $155 million, the Butterfly House, much like its neighboring homes at The Case, is a status symbol. And we’re looking forward to seeing who its lucky owner will be.
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Oscar-winning director James Cameron‘s knack for innovation, attention to detail, and sense of responsibility are equally apparent in his films and homes. He is best known for his work on blockbusters “Titanic,” “Avatar,” and “Aliens,” among others.
You might even think of his Hollister Ranch a real estate blockbuster. And he’s looking for a well-drawn ending to his stewardship of the remarkable, 102-acre estate with unrivaled ocean views. It’s where he wrote parts of “Avatar” and its sequel, thanks to those coastal views fueling his imagination, he told the Wall Street Journal.
He recently listed the beautiful, self-sustaining property for $33 million.
Cameron and his wife, Suzy Amis Cameron, purchased the horse property more than 20 years ago for $4,375,000, records show.
Since then, they’ve been beautifying the grounds and structures, reducing the carbon footprint, and upping the style quotient.
The estate runs on a solar-powered system, a wind generator, and storage for the energy they absorb. There are organic gardens for growing food, and water is supplied by two generous wells—one for agricultural use and another for drinking water.
Natural materials such as wood, glass, and stone make up the private living spaces, which include an 8,000-square-foot main house and a 2,000-square-foot guesthouse.
The main residence has five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, two offices, a gym, media room, and game room.
There is a massive great room with vaulted ceilings, highlighted by rustic-wood beams, and stone floors below. The house was designed with abundant glass doors and tall windows for an indoor-outdoor living experience and to fully capture the dramatic ocean views.
The kitchen is another highlight, with custom lighting, cabinetry, and countertops; a large dining island; Wolf range; Sub-Zero refrigerator; and other upscale appliances, plus an impressive hanging pot rack.
For outdoor recreation, there’s a tennis court, lagoon-style pool and spa, plus various trails and seating areas throughout the property. Residents can also pick their own fruit from a variety of trees.
There property comes with a 24,000-square-foot horse barn with nearby paddocks. There’s an adjacent equestrian facility that features ranch offices with a caretaker’s quarters and four apartments, offering six bedrooms and six bathrooms.
The estate is mere steps from the lovely Drake’s Beach, which is part of the pristine “Hollister Ranch Shoreline Preserve.” Surfing, fishing, diving, paddling, beach combing, and many other ocean-related activities are all on the agenda here. You can even ride your horses directly to the beach and up the coastline. How’s that for romantic?
It’s also located close to prestigious Montecito, where you just might run into A-list residents Prince Harry and Megan Markle or Oprah Winfrey, while you’re enjoying local wineries, farmers markets, chic shops, and cultural attractions.
So why would the Camerons ever want to leave this slice of paradise? The director told the Wall Street Journal that they are “scattered around too much,” owning properties in New Zealand, Canada, Manhattan Beach, CA , Crested Butte, CO, and Austin, TX.
Emily Kellenberger, of Village Properties/Forbes Global Properties, and Jeff Kruthers, of Hollister Ranch Realty, hold the listing.
An endlessly elegant Hawaiian escape above the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Kailua Kona, HI, has hit the market for $29 million, making it the Big Island‘s most expensive listing.
Set on the island’s west coast, the six-bedroom, 8,318-square-foot abode is a true beauty.
“One of the most impressive features of the property is the commanding view of the coastline from atop the Four Seasons Resort,” says listing agent Frank Schenk, of Coldwell Banker Island Properties – Kona. “The elevation is 125 feet above sea level, so you have panoramic views of the Ke’olu Championship Golf Course and the Four Seasons Resort below. It’s like an eagle’s nest.”
The residence sits on 1.3 private acres, with unobstructed views of the white-sand beaches. A gated motor court opens to the spacious home, detached garage, courtyard, waterfall, and pond.
‘Hawaiian flair’
Inside the home, there are two laundry rooms, several sitting areas, and a media room.
The open floor plan features a spacious living and dining area with soaring wood ceilings. Doors here open to astonishing oceanfront views.
“It has a Hawaiian flair, but it’s contemporary Hawaiian,” Schenk says of the sleek design.
Schenk notes that the property offers resort living.
“The next buyer will appreciate its location at the Hualalai Resort,” he says. “It’s very exclusive. All of the homes here are used as secondary homes. There are over 300 at the Four Seasons Resort, and only two owners are here six months or so out of the year. The next owner will probably own multiple properties and will be looking for privacy.”
Golfers, rejoice: The locale is adjacent to hole #1 of the members’ Ke’olu Championship Golf Course and is within walking distance of the Ke’olu Clubhouse.
It’s also centrally located with an airport, just 10 minutes away for private jets.
“Security is at the gated entry, so it is very private and many people don’t know about this place,” Schenk says. “Those who do know have likely heard about it from their friends.”
While the home is certainly designed for comfort, it’s also thoughtfully laid out with entertaining in mind.
“Most of the bedrooms on the island are detached dwellings, so guests have to walk outside, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing; but if you have kids, it’s not ideal,” Schenk says. “This home has two primary suites on either ends of the home, making it ideal for families. The other bedrooms are en suite, as well.”
One primary suite even boasts its own private, outdoor soaking tub; garden shower; and built-in lounge.
Designed to maximize outdoor leisure, the property features an infinity-edge pool and spa and an open-air kitchen.
From a cozy, sunken fire-pit area to a large, covered lanai, there are several places to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
“Everywhere in the main home, there is a nice zone to relax,” Schenk says. “The area surrounding the fire pit is a great spot to go out and enjoy the stars at night.”
It may seem a little silly to talk about living room inspiration so soon after revealing my latest and last! loft makeover, but as soon as I finish one project I’m already off to the next – at least in my head! And the living room in our new/old house is probably one of the projects I’m most excited about. It will be the heart of the home. That’s why I was particularly tickled that Jacquelyn Clark of Lark & Linen fame agreed to throw in her two cents. I love everything about this girl’s style – she has impeccable taste after all!
For a little construction update, here’s what our living room currently looks like!
Yes, it’s certainly a hot mess at the moment, but once dry wall is finished, it’s painted and we put in the historically accurate fireplace, I cannot wait to start working on our final design scheme and floor plan. Connected to our kitchen, dining room and media room, this space will be the hub of the home – where we relax, where we hang out, where we entertain. It’s really where we’ll spend the majority of our time as a family, so the layout and final design choices will be key. I strongly suspect influence from Jacquelyn’s inspiration is going to show up in my final design!
As you may know, Miss Erin Hiemstra has gone and landed herself a gorgeous old Victorian home in the heart of San Francisco. While the exterior is picture perfect in every sense of the word, the interior is in need of a little TLC. And while Erin and her husband are busy tackling this massive project in real life, I’m going to be over here pretending this beauty is mine! My focus: that living room!
Since launching my own interior design business in October, I’ve been lucky enough to land quite a few pretty amazing projects. But in truth: this home right here is the one my designer dreams are made of. So when Erin and her team asked me to take part in this guest series, showcasing how I’d design one room if given the opportunity, my head began swimming with ideas.
When it came down to it, there were two things I knew for certain: this living room was begging for the slightest hint of glamor, and those Victorian bones needed to take centre stage. So with that in mind, I’m channeling my inner Catherine Giudici and calling this round-up “grown sexy.” It’s understated and elegant, all while remaining functional. The best part: the clean lines and modern elements add interest and contrast, which really allows those Victorian mouldings to shine.
GET YOUR SHOP ON:
> Sofa
> Chandelier
> Wall Art
> Accent Chair
> Coffee Table
> Gold Mirror
> Rug
> Walnut Buffet
Grown sexy? Jacquelyn, you had me at hello! I’m all about striking that balance between warm and elegant, sophisticated and livable. It is all about creating the perfect mix of statement making pieces and the work horses of your room. I particularly love Jacquelyn’s white linen sofa selection yes, I would scotch guard the hell out of it! and that geometric coffee table. Now that is a show stopper! So many ideas are dancing around in my head right now…I’m curious – if you had this living room, what would you do?!
For the rest of our Designers’ Takes on our 140 year old Victorian CLICK HERE
Image 1 vai Lark & Linen // 2 via Studio Karin // 3 via Dust Jacket Attic