THIS STUNNING HILLSIDE MANSION, WITH SWEEPING OCEAN AND CITY VIEWS, IS YOUR TICKET TO SUBLIME WEST COAST BLISS

BY AMANDA McCOY

Quietly tucked behind private gates, the neighborhood that made Will Smith famous in the ‘90s is one of L.A.’s most exclusive, boasting an average home price of $12.5 million (according to city real estate data) and jaw dropping mega mansions. Neighbored by Beverly Hills and Holmby Hills, Bel Air completes the “Platinum Triangle,” a term coined for the three enclaves’ close proximity and lavish real estate. Beyoncé, Elon Musk, and Jennifer Aniston all own homes in this exquisite hamlet, nestled in the foothills of the Santa Monica mountains and draped in lush vegetation.

A catalog of styles lines the streets (and, more frequently, hills) of Bel Air, from 1930s Châteauesque estates with elaborate gardens to postmodern glass and steel stunners. Among them lies this contemporary six bedroom mansion with dramatic indoor/outdoor flow. Carved into the slope of a hill, the property’s elevation affords sweeping views, stretching from the palm tree dotted skyline to the Pacific Ocean.

Since the property is linear, nearly every room in the house is treated to panoramic views. The home’s many massive floor to ceiling sliding glass doors allow its denizens to enjoy the southern California sun even while inside – soaking in the freestanding tub in the master bath, perhaps, or roasting hors d’oeuvres on the Miele cooktop while guests lounge on the 3,000 square foot outdoor patio. It’s a good thing L.A. boasts pleasant weather year round, because an oversized infinity pool never fails to entice.

Vesta, luxury interior design and home staging firm, was tasked with furnishing and outfitting the home.

Hand & Stone SPREAD

“This property is truly remarkable, and the wow factor comes from the simplicity and restraint in colors,” noted Kiel Wuellner, Vesta’s vice president of design. “In order to make the home approachable, inviting, and warm we needed to inject wood tones, pops of color, and moments of fun for juxtaposition against the black and white shell.”

The city backdrop influenced the design choices, explained Wuellner, and the team didn’t want any piece to be so loud or obtrusive to take away from the views. As a result, they opted for low furniture, a calming, neutral palette, and simple lines. They were sure, however, to elegantly insert pockets of playfulness whenever possible. Vibrant wall art, for instance, livens up an otherwise monochromatic color scheme, and several oversized contemporary chandeliers in au courant shapes dance overhead.

When asked about the desired theme and style, Wuellner responded: “It was all about the mix, a curated feel that was focused on entertaining, conversation areas, and memorable pieces. The use of natural elements, pattern play, and a unique mix of art makes the property appeal to either families or a true global citizen wanting an ultimate retreat. While the main palette is restrained, with a soothing and calming effect, the home has moments of the ‘unexpected’ throughout, which adds a sense of fun and warmth.”

Ultra luxe materials were brought in, such as imported Italian marble from Antolini, oak wood floors, and Italian limestone floors. Energy efficient Lutron smart lighting system with dimmers sets the mood.

The gourmet kitchen is a sleek tapestry of marble, metal, and wood, blending white, rich brown, silver, and gray tones. It’s outfitted with all state of the art Miele appliances and offers seating for four on the island/breakfast bar.

The open concept leads directly to living areas on either side, both opening to the outdoors. The larger den features a sizable wet bar, rendered in a textured, almost hypnotic backdrop in cool black. Next door, an office with luxe custom wooden bookshelves offers a first class work from home setup.

There are six luxuriously appointed bedrooms, but the master suite is truly in a league of its own. Flanked by massive sliding doors that open to the outside, the room boasts its own private balcony and a presidential suite style bathroom with a freestanding tub and massive black and white marbled shower. In addition to his and her sinks, there’s a separate floating vanity to primp and pamper against views of Los Angeles.

And what would an ultimate retreat be without ample areas to relax and regale? In addition to the sprawling outdoor terrace peppered with multiple lounge chairs and dining sets, the property also boasts a full recreational floor, including a board game room, a floor to ceiling wine cellar with tasting area, an exercise nook with views of the outdoors, and a cozy home theater with excellent surround sound. Here, a soft mauve tinted couch and matching chairs offer a sprinkle of color. Take a spin class, challenge your family members to a game of pool or Monopoly, or open a ‘97 merlot. Possibilities abound – just don’t forget to return to the patio at sunset.

“The home has moments of the ‘unexpected’ throughout, which adds a sense of fun and warmth.”

1037 Stradella Road is listed for $14,990,000.

Douglas Elliman
575 Madison Avenue, NY / elliman.com
Vesta 4900 E 50th Street, Vernon, CA
vestahome.com