Desert Showplace

June 22, 2023
Updated:
October 25, 2023
Desert Showplace
Natural stone accents allow the compound's buildings to blend seamlessly into the natural beauty of the 28-acre hillside parcel. (Courtesy of Kelly Peak, toptenrealestatedeals.com)
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The first known residents of Palm Springs were the Cahuilla people, who enjoyed the beauty of the area they called Se-Khi (“boiling water”) and its many hot springs. Two thousand years later, much of the area still abounds with natural beauty, such as the setting for this estate. Nestled on the side of a hill in Mesa Canyon on a very private and secluded 28-acre site, it’s surrounded by glorious unobstructed views, many of which haven’t changed much since people first discovered this area.

The main residence’s dining room features stone flooring and vaulted ceiling accented with a vintage chandelier, while the generous number of windows provide a great view of the magnificent surroundings. (Courtesy of Kelly Peak, toptenrealestatedeals.com)
The main residence’s dining room features stone flooring and vaulted ceiling accented with a vintage chandelier, while the generous number of windows provide a great view of the magnificent surroundings. (Courtesy of Kelly Peak, toptenrealestatedeals.com)

Accessed via a gate, a winding driveway passes a waterfall before arriving at the European-styled, two-story villa set above the other four structures. Five buildings provide a total of 7,280 square feet of living area. The interior of the main residence was designed by actress Suzanne Somers and her husband, who owned and resided in the property from the 1970s until they sold it in 2021.

The spacious tiled living room has a ceiling accented by reclaimed wood, with glass walls that open onto a covered patio and the inviting pool beyond. (Courtesy of Kelly Peak, toptenrealestatedeals.com)
The spacious tiled living room has a ceiling accented by reclaimed wood, with glass walls that open onto a covered patio and the inviting pool beyond. (Courtesy of Kelly Peak, toptenrealestatedeals.com)

The home features a primary suite plus six additional bedrooms and a total of nine full and half baths. A two-room, restaurant-grade kitchen with an enormous pantry serves a dining room that seats 24, all of whom can enjoy samplings from the home’s wine cellar. A stone guest house designed by noted architect Albert Frey and built in the 1920s joins three other structures on the property.

The pool, partially shaded by native trees and accented with locally sourced rock, looks out over the surrounding hills. (Courtesy of Kelly Peak, toptenrealestatedeals.com)
The pool, partially shaded by native trees and accented with locally sourced rock, looks out over the surrounding hills. (Courtesy of Kelly Peak, toptenrealestatedeals.com)

Notable amenities include two pools—one lagoon-style—a spa, an outdoor amphitheater with seating for 50 and a dance floor, numerous fireplaces, several alfresco dining spots, a waterfall, a two-car garage, onsite parking for 20 vehicles, and an antique funicular to carry guests up to the main villa.

This unique property affords a great view of the valley below and, while secluded, allows relatively easy access to nearby dining and shopping areas.

252 Ridge Road Palm Springs, Calif. $12.9 million

• 7 bedrooms • 7 full baths, 4 half baths • 7,280 square feet • 28 acres

Key Features Outdoor amphitheater Guest house Gated entry Funicular

Agent Scott Lyle Compass Realty 760-333-8454

Meet Your Guide
Bill Lindsey is an award-winning writer based in South Florida. He covers real estate, automobiles, timepieces, boats, and travel topics.