Inside Casa Estrella in Beverly Hills

May 7, 2024

Amid numerous sleek new contemporary homes on the desirable streets of Beverly Hills, some classic estates have stood the test of time, carefully maintained and rejuvenated over the decades as reminders of the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age. Dating to 1928, this Spanish-style villa brings to mind the sets of classic 20th-century films. Surely, one thinks, scenes from Chinatown, Sunset Boulevard, The Godfather, or L.A. Confidential must have been shot here—or at the very least, the soigné spaces and grand pool terrace must have hosted the film world’s elite at smashing soirees.

Beverly Hills, California | Sam Plouchart, Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage

In this case, those speculations are particularly astute, given that the 9,935-square-foot residence on lush, lavish grounds was once home to Hollywood luminary Billie Burke, best known for her role as Glinda the Good Witch in 1939’s legendary Wizard of Oz. Burke died in 1970, and the home passed into other caring, capable hands that undertook a comprehensive renovation and expansion. Many of the lovely period elements—ceiling beams, ornate wrought-iron railings, breezy balconies, wood-burning fireplaces, and classical outdoor fountains—have been retained, while the finishes, systems, and amenities that are de rigueur for 21st-century living have been seamlessly, stylishly incorporated—clean contemporary lines, crisp-edged kitchen countertops, artful modern light fixtures, disappearing walls of glass, gas fireplaces, built-in media components, Nest thermostats, and other smart home systems. In addition to a three-car garage, the property features a motor court that provides parking for a dozen additional vehicles.

Regardless of the era, the home’s public spaces—formal living and dining rooms, a handsome office or library, and an inviting family room—display exceptional functionality and flow. The kitchen and family room will impress the chef or entertainer—as well as every guest—with its Perla Venata leather-finish quartzite counters, Wolf appliances, and view across the grounds toward the sparkling city skyline.

On the second floor are four generous bedrooms with en suite baths—chief among them the vast primary suite, which basks in dazzling views and includes dual walk-in closets and baths with dramatically distinct aesthetics: one a luxurious soaking-centric oasis suffused with light and porcelain, the other a strikingly serene hideaway with black leather-finish quartzite surfaces and a satisfying steamshower. The light-filled ground level offers an additional bedroom and bath, a well-outfitted theater, a gym accompanied by a sauna and a cold plunge, a wet bar, and temperature-controlled wine cellar. A gracefully curving floating staircase links all three levels.

The enchanting grounds offer numerous spaces for gathering, whether for intimate afternoon conversations or festive midnight fêtes. Enveloping the sizable swimming pool and spa are an outdoor kitchen, fire pits, a swath of impossibly green lawn, and meticulously manicured, tastefully illuminated landscaping befitting such a cinematic setting. Without question, this is an estate that encourages tapping one’s heels together—with or without ruby slippers—and whispering “There’s no place like home.”