The California Estate Used In Big Little Lies Is On Sale For $29.6 Million
If you were a big fan of the hit HBO show "Big Little Lies," you'll definitely want to take a peek at the Carmel, California estate that recently hit the market — you may recognize it as the backdrop from a therapy scene that took place between Reese Witherspoon and Adam Scott's characters, Madeline and Ed MacKenzie. Plus, thriller fans may be tantalized to learn it was also a filming location for the 90s flick "Basic Instinct," according to Realtor.
Though the $29.6 million asking price may seem a bit steep, it's actually a huge drop from the asking price when the home first hit the market — about three years ago, as the New York Post reported, it was listed for $52.4 million. The estate has a bit of a unique history — the owner, a former software entrepreneur, apparently had his heart set on the ocean-front land, and after buying one particular parcel of land in the area, slowly added to his estate by snatching up any adjoining properties whenever they hit the market. Though the high price tag may lead you to assume he's listing the full five-property compound, it's actually just one particular portion he's selling.
However, it's a pretty jaw-dropping portion. The residence, which has been given the name the Lodge at Spindrift, was built in 1983 and is over 12,100 square feet in total with six bedrooms, seven and a half bathrooms, and a four-car garage to keep all your luxury vehicles protected.
Scenery galore — including ocean views
The exterior of the home — or, more precisely, the grounds the property sits on — is truly incomparable. As per Realtor, it's the largest oceanfront residence in the Carmel Highlands neighborhood, and you're just steps away from the ocean. In fact, one of the more unique features, a fire pit area, takes advantage of this. While a fire pit may not seem that remarkable, it's all about the location — the private spot that can seat a few guests is nestled amidst a rocky area with breathtaking views of the ocean. You're so close you may even feel the saltwater spray dusting your face.
The home sits on two acres of land, and in addition to the nearby ocean, there's a ton of stunning landscaping, from manicured gardens to trees that offer shade. There are a few spots that take advantage of the scenic grounds, such as a patio area where a large table and chairs can be set up for dining outdoors, as well as a bench to perch on as you take in those ocean views.
If you prefer something a bit more tame than the ocean for the day, there's also a hot tub shaded from the elements, a waterfall feature, as well as a pool with a unique geometric shape in a central spot, shielded by the home to ensure the utmost privacy. And, of course, there are a series of paths that you can take as you explore the breathtaking property.
Windows galore — and a two-story library
One of the key features of the house, as Realtor demonstrates, is the abundance of windows on the sides of the home that face the ocean. After all, when you have such an incredible view, why wouldn't you want to make the most of it and enjoy it from virtually every room in your home? From a hallway lined entirely with windows that stretch from the ground to halfway across the ceiling to a breakfast nook that's entirely encased in glass, there are endless spots to take in the ocean views and California sunshine.
The home also boasts a wide range of amenities, including a gym, sauna, gourmet kitchen complete with a wine cellar, double ovens and double burners, and even what appears to be a pizza oven, as well as a secondary kitchen.
However, one of the more unique features that will automatically charm any bookworm is the stunning two-story library. The space is filled with wall-to-wall wooden bookshelves adding warmth and coziness to the space and features a cupola with an eye-catching geometric design. The second-story walkway features a modern metal railing that makes the space feel open, and there's a gorgeous spiral staircase connecting the two floors from within the library. And, of course, one wall features a massive window to allow the natural sunlight to fill the space. The idyllic spot seems perfect for curling up with a good book.
A master suite you won't want to leave
The master suite in the home is just as impressive as all the other features and amenities sprinkled throughout. As Realtor shows, the space has an angled, vaulted ceiling that has been painted the same color as the walls, making the room feel incredibly spacious. There's also an abundance of windows on one side, meaning you'll get those ocean views the minute you wake up in the morning. And, as if that weren't enough, there is a set of glass French double doors that lead out to a private balcony.
For those chillier California nights, there's a real wood-burning fireplace on one side of the room. Just steps away is a luxurious master bathroom with marble flooring and a sleek modern bathtub, likewise crafted from marble, that makes a true style statement. While the windows don't start at the bathtub level, for privacy reasons, there are some windows along the ceiling above the bathtub, so you can enjoy those long bubble baths while gazing at the stars or basking in the morning sunshine. And there are two separate half baths within the larger master bathroom, creating a true ensuite experience. Finally, there's some built-in shelving and closets, artfully hidden by mirrored panels, so your walk-in closet is conveniently just steps away.