A striking Santa Fe estate once owned by legendary actor Gene Hackman has sold in record time, capturing a buyer after just one month on the market.

Set within the gated Santa Fe Summit and surrounded by more than 53 acres of pristine high‑desert landscape, a remarkable estate once owned by acclaimed actor Gene Hackman has changed hands after only one month on the market. The property went into contract in just eight days, with Tara Earley and Ricky Allen of Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage representing the seller, and Chris Pearson Kramer of Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe Brokerage representing the buyer. Its swift sale speaks to the rare blend of design, setting, and serenity that defines this singular property. 

Santa Fe, New Mexico | Ricky Allen, Tara Earley, Chris Pearson Kramer

Tucked just 15 minutes from the Plaza yet worlds away in atmosphere, the residence was conceived by architect Ed Boniface and built by Doug McDowell. Glass, stone, and steel create a quiet, sculptural presence that settles naturally into its hillside. Inside, the materials continue the dialogue with the outdoors. Floor-to-ceiling windows pull vast views—from the Jemez Mountains to the distant edge of Colorado—directly into the living spaces, giving the home a shifting, cinematic quality as light moves across the terrain.  

The main residence unfolds through a series of spacious, fluid rooms designed for both reflection and gathering. A grand living room anchors the core of the home, accompanied by a generous dining area and a warm, wood-lined library. The primary suite forms its own retreat with a sitting area, office, dual closets, and spa-like baths that open to the landscape. Below, a gym, game room, and media room provide additional layers of livability while maintaining the home’s understated aesthetic.  

Across the property, two additional structures extend its versatility. A three-bedroom guest house offers privacy and comfort for visitors, while a large studio stands ready for art, music, yoga, or other creative pursuits. Thoughtfully positioned outdoor spaces encourage time spent in the open air: a pool suited for early swims, terraces placed for taking in the changing sky, a secluded putting green bordered by native plantings, and an enclosed hot tub where city lights shimmer in the distance. Garages with room for six vehicles complete the compound. 

As the estate begins its next chapter, its sale underscores the continued appeal of thoughtfully designed homes that offer both a strong connection to the landscape and access to the cultural centers. Properties that strike this balance remain highly sought after, and this residence stands as a clear example of how architecture, setting, and livability can come together in a way that continues to resonate across the market. 

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