Beverly Hills real estate is a symbol of success for those who associate the city with wealth and exclusivity. Synonymous with opulent mansions and palm tree-lined boulevards, its gated residences are some of the most sought after properties on the international market. Here’s what gives this affluent enclave an enduring reputation for luxury and discernment.
Beverly Hills: The Epitome of Luxury and Glamour
Spanning from San Vicente Boulevard to Whittier Drive, Beverly Hills has long embodied elusive glamor and dignified wealth on the West Coast. Its origins and history are no less colorful than its reputation.
Its affluent background and history
Beverly Hills stands on the former site of El Rodeo de las Aguas (Gathering of the Waters), named as such for the streams that once coursed through the land. Originally part of an 1838 land grant from the Mexican governor of California, the ranch was owned and operated by Maria Rita Valdez Villa, an early feminist figure and foremother of Beverly Hills.
The modern landscape of Beverly Hills took shape when developer Burton Green began marketing the area as a subdivision in 1907. He hired the renowned landscape architect Wilbur D. Cook, who designed the city’s characteristic wide, curving streets. The Beverly Hills Hotel was built in 1912, which served as a vital social hub for the community.
Beverly Hills was incorporated as a city in 1914. Actors Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks built their home, the Pickfair Estate, in 1919. Charlie Chaplin, Clara Bow, Gloria Swanson, and Rudolph Valentino followed suit. This phenomenon built the city’s reputation as home to the rich and the famous.
Iconic landmarks and attractions
- Rodeo Drive – Arguably one of the most recognizable streets in the world, Rodeo Drive is a world-class luxury destination with designer stores and independently owned boutiques.
- The Beverly Hills Hotel – This historic five-star hotel has hosted countless celebrities and foreign dignitaries, offering plush accommodations and fantastic dining options.
- Greystone Mansion & Gardens – Once home to the Doheny family, this imposing Tudor Revival-style estate is a historic landmark and popular events venue.
- Virginia Robinson Gardens – This historic mansion and garden features exquisite gardens and stunning Mediterranean-style architecture.
Beverly Hills Neighborhoods
Beverly Hills Flats
The Flats offers some of the largest properties in Beverly Hills. It is also known for a diverse range of architectural styles, including Colonial, Mediterranean, and Mid-Century Modern.
Beverly Hills Post Office (BHPO)
BHPO is known for its gorgeous homes and impressive architecture, which includes Cape Cod, French Normandy, Italian Renaissance Revival, Tudor, Tuscan, and Victorian. Lavish amenities typically include glistening pools, tennis courts, and home theaters.
Trousdale Estates
Trousdale Estates offers multi-million dollar properties with smart home technology and spacious layouts. It is home to many high-profile residents due to the high level of privacy and security in the area.
The Affluent Beverly Hills Lifestyle
Shopping
Rodeo Drive features more than 100 stores, boutiques, and art galleries. These include luxury brands like Audemars Piguet, Balenciaga, Chanel, Dior, Hermes, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Versace, and more. The House of Bijan, which specializes in luxury men’s wear, is one of the oldest luxury boutiques on Rodeo Drive and has moved to a larger space across the street from its old location. Galerie Michael, which specializes in fine art and 17th century European paintings and prints, has been on Rodeo Drive for over 30 years.
Dining
Beverly Hills is a culinary destination. Some of its most iconic restaurants include:
- Crustacean is helmed by Chef Helene An and is known for serving modern Vietnamese fare.
- Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura is a Michelin-star tasting restaurant with stylish staff who serve innovative Italian dishes while dressed in Gucci apparel and sneakers.
- Lawry’s The Prime Rib is a crowd favorite that has been serving its signature Spinning Bowl Salad and classic steakhouse fare for over 90 years.
- The Fountain Coffee Room is a historic landmark that serves gourmet coffee, soda floats, freshly baked pastries, and homemade ice cream.
- The Hideaway is known for serving classic Mexican fare and its spectacular patio.
- Steak 48 serves hearty steak dinners and seafood towers with fresh shellfish.
Luxury Accommodations and Spas
In addition to the Beverly Hills Hotel, residents and their guests can enjoy lavish accommodations and spa treatments at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. This luxury hotel is known for its impeccable service and fine dining options. It is a well-known filming location due to its elegant interiors. Luxury spas in the Beverly Hills area include Ciel Spa Beverly Hills by Pearl Wellness, La Prairie Spa at Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, Tomoko Spa, and Vendôme Clinique & Spa.
