Malibu’s Most Picturesque Villa & Secret Garden

By Kimberly Ridley

Malibu’s 21 miles of sparkling coastline make it one of America’s longest cities, and its celebrity residents make it one of the most glamorous. The beachfront city, which borders Los Angeles, is known for its Mediterranean climate, stellar surf beaches, and laid-back but upscale vibe. One of the chic town’s most exclusive neighborhoods is the gate-guarded Serra Retreat, tucked into the hillside of Malibu Canyon. The community takes its name from the nearby Catholic retreat center run by Franciscan friars, but there are no vows of poverty among the residents of its approximately 100 properties. This "Billionaires Enclave" has been home to Dick Van Dyke, John Paul DeJoria, Sergey Brin, and the renowned "Queen of Malibu" herself, Rhoda May Knight Rindge.

A chance to join this illustrious club presents itself with the listing of the grand Italian estate known as Villa di Vita Bella for $29.925 million. Originally built in 1970, it was reimagined by owners Susan B. Noyes (founder of Make It Better Media Group and the Make It Better Foundation) and her husband, Nick, as a sustainable retreat, complete with an expansive organic garden designed by permaculture expert Tommy Teeple, featuring fruit trees, citrus groves, and seasonal produce. A secret garden boasting a mural handpainted by acclaimed artist James Goldcrown is accessible only from the basement. An acre of terraced Italianate gardens traversed by lush flower-lined pathways, numerous fountains, a mosaic-tiled infinity pool, a championship-sized tennis court customized for basketball and pickleball, and an outdoor kitchen by Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet with a pizza oven provide for a spectacular outdoor lifestyle. 

Inside, find Venetian plaster walls, soaring ceilings, seven stunning fireplaces, and custom millwork. The design was meticulously curated by former owner Deanna Staats, the ex-wife of 7 For All Mankind co-founder Peter Koral, incorporating the finest imported European materials to blend old-world sophistication with California's relaxed charm. The massive La Cornue kitchen includes a bespoke butler's pantry. The epic primary suite offers a wraparound terrace, couture closet, and a spa-inspired bath featuring silver-plated sink basins, a sculptural marble tub and an ocean-view steam shower. Additional amenities include heated floors, a Creston home automation system, a wine cellar, a movie theater, and a recreation lounge. The detached guest house mirrors the estate's refined aesthetic, complete with its own La Cornue kitchen, living room, fireplace, and terraces with awe-inspiring sunset vistas.

Set upon a peninsula, the estate’s fantastic location allows both sunrise and sunset views from different vantage points. Centrally located, it is set away from Malibu’s busiest zones for peace and tranquility but only a short car ride from world-class dining at Nobu, the exclusive Soho House members club and the vibrant Malibu Country Mart, not to mention all those miles of world-class beaches. 

The listing is held by F. Ron Smith, David Berg and Edward Hutchinson of the Smith & Berg Property Group at Compass.

Photo credit:  Cris Nolasco/Nolasco Studios

Source: www.compass.com