_The world's best trophy homes: Build a sprawling family estate in LA's exclusive The Park Bel Air
When it comes to the world’s finest homes, big and beautiful comes as standard. It’s the seemingly small – but, in reality, incredibly significant – details that transform a property into a dream home.
The most luxurious penthouse is nothing without breathtaking views; a waterfront villa unappealing without privacy; an elegant townhouse disheartening if in an undesirable location.
And there’s the issue of space. Generally, the bigger the home means the bigger the price tag – but even the most generous of budgets can’t overcome strict planning regulations.
So a 10.6-acre site, complete with fully approved plans to build three majestic estates, in one of the world’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, seems almost too good to be true. But it is true – and it could be yours.
Introducing The Park Bel Air
Set in the famous East Bel Air neighbourhood, The Park Bel Air is a project 20 years in the making, conceived and designed by the prestigious developer Domvs London and the investment boutique Junius Real Estate Partners. Every element has been taken into consideration, from awe-inspiring views to plentiful parking space and, crucially, planning permission.
The necessary permits were acquired for The Park Bel Air prior to the introduction of new regulations on large-scale residential developments. Consequently, the new owner will need simply to give the go-ahead for construction to begin, and the home could be ready to move into within two years.
As stringent new limitations are forcing many land owners to rethink or compromise their plans, this is the last opportunity of its kind for a property of this scale and location.
Above: An artist's impression
A vision realised
Not only have the permits been acquired, but they also offer maximum flexibility. The three estates can be built from the moment of purchase, or work can be staggered over time, with sections preserved for future generations to bring to life.
Furthermore, the permits provide the option to redesign, scale down and customise the plans as desired on an expedited basis.
‘To have all the approved plans in place to be able to start building estates of this magnitude tomorrow is extremely rare,’ says Connie Blankenship, director of luxury estates at Douglas Elliman Real Estate. ‘And, of course, this truly is one of the best locations in the world for a brand-new family estate.’
Each of the three estates has its own distinctive features and appeal. Estate One, for instance, is reached via an impressively long tree-lined drive. Estate Two can accommodate two separate properties, such as a main residence and guest house.
Estate Three, the biggest at 4.6 acres, includes permits for a tennis court and sports or entertainment area. Plans for each estate total more than 59,000 square feet, and impressively, each one of the estates is larger in size than the White House.
Plans for The Park Bel Air include countless luxury amenities including swimming pools, tennis courts and games areas. The lower levels have also been allocated space for storing prized collections in optimal conditions.
Whether you’re a collector of cars, fine wine or priceless art (or perhaps all three), you can rest assured they will take pride of place at The Park Bel Air.
Above: An artist's impression
LA living
Much like the castles of kings and queens in centuries gone by, The Park Bel Air enjoys an elevated position, with the enviable combination of breathtaking views and total privacy.
Each of the three estates has panoramic views of the canyon, city and sparkling Pacific Ocean beyond, and is overseen by a dedicated guardhouse, in addition to the main guardhouse at the front of the compound.
Nestled at the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains in the heart of the Platinum Triangle, Bel Air is home to Hollywood royalty, business titans and the global elite. With the legendary Hotel Bel Air sat directly opposite, residents can also enjoy easy access to the iconic hotel’s extensive five-star amenities, from elegant afternoon tea to an indulgent spa session that revitalises the senses.
Los Angeles is world-famous for its alluring combination of lifestyle, culture and climate. With an emphasis on wellbeing, residents here can enjoy the warm sun, palm-tree-lined streets and the area’s vibrant energy.
Above: An artist's impression
Some of the world’s finest (and, in some cases, healthiest) eateries and bars can be discovered in West Hollywood; high-end brands line Rodeo Drive, complemented by the smaller luxury boutiques of Venice Boardwalk; and partygoers can revel in the glittering nightlife of Sunset Strip and Hollywood Boulevard after sundown.
Your future home The Park Bel Air is truly unmatched in the market. It ticks all the boxes of even the most discerning buyer: location, privacy, views and optionality, to name just a few.
Here is the chance to create an expansive estate that exceeds your hopes and dreams, and provides a sanctuary for you and your future generations. The Park Bel Air is an extraordinary legacy asset – and it’s waiting for you to bring it to life.
The Park Bel Air is currently on the market with Douglas Elliman and Knight Frank. For more information, visit parkbelair.com, or email jason.mansfield@knightfrank.com
This article appears in International View 2019 - Knight Frank's annual compendium of the world's best real estate. To view more of the properties that inspire incredible lifestyles: