Sotheby’s International Realty

Pacific Palisades, California

At first blush, this traditional home brings to mind the timelessness of the East Coast, where architectural convention has for generations tended toward the classical and refined.Some 3,000 miles west, though, in the exclusive Riviera neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, this charming new five-bedroom home catches the eye with its stately façade and time-honored stylistic elements. Within, generous light-filled spaces are easygoing without sacrificing style and encourage lingering, lounging, and entertaining with grandeur and grace.

Through an enchanting green lawn and lovely landscaping, a brick path leads to the multilevel home. Its traditional allure continues in a dramatic Palladian window; classical shutters; custom molding, paneling, and cabinetry; richly hued solid walnut floors; brass hardware; and French doors. Throughout, distinctive light fixtures create accents that are both subtle and striking, and nearly floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spaces with sunlight.

Festive gatherings are a breeze here, amid 9,400 airy square feet. In addition to a chic living room, a sophisticated dining room, and a welcoming wood-paneled family room with three sets of French doors opening to the backyard, it features a handsome bar with wood counters and glass cabinets. The exceptionally spacious chef’s kitchen includes a walk-in pantry, an oversized island that seats four, top-tier appliances, a built-in desk, and a sunny breakfast area. More relaxed recreation can be enjoyed on the lowest level, which includes a theater with comfortable tiered seating and a recreation and billiards room with a sleek modern bar.

In the lofty master bedroom, doors to a private balcony admit soothing breezes and blur the lines between indoors and out. The suite includes a fireplace as well as his and her baths—one with rich wood paneling and a stone-clad shower, the other light-filled, elegant, and offering a glass-walled shower and a soaking tub beside a bright view window. Each of the inviting guest bedrooms has its own design motif and bath.

Among the numerous other highlights are a carpeted fitness room, a serene office with plentiful windows and walls of built-in shelves, a delightful lower-level bunk room that sleeps six; two spacious, thoughtfully outfitted laundry rooms; and an elevator that connects it all with ease. The backyard is an oasis of greenery, where tall manicured shrubs afford peaceful privacy for a relaxing brick patio, a lush lawn, a refreshing pool and spa, and a wood sundeck that encourages basking in the warmth of California sunshine.