Bing Crosby’s historic French Renaissance estate returns to the spotlight with a $29 million asking price. Located at 1200 Armsby Drive in Hillsborough, California, the grand estate was once home to the Crosby family for nearly 60 years. The Hollywood icon lived in this mansion with his wife Katheryn and kids until he passed away in 1977.
Nearly a year later, following Katheryn’s death, her family listed the iconic Bing Crosby Estate for $40 million. The real estate investor Mehrdad Elie bought the mansion for $25 million and gave it a $3 million contemporary renovation.
The iconic Bing Crosby Estate has a multi-winged, asymmetrical layout that features a circular, turreted tower-like structure, a steep grey slate roofline, dormer windows, and a tall chimney. The multiple French doors on the ground level open onto the stone patio, seamlessly connecting the outdoor space with the indoor. The whitewashed brickwork and limestone façade were cleaned and restored during renovation, enhancing the mansion’s weathered appearance while maintaining its timeless Hollywood charm.
During the remodeling process, a pool was re-excavated, and a gorgeous resort-style swimming pool and spa were installed in its place. This brand-new swimming pool with built-in fountains becomes the focal point of the iconic Crosby estate. The expansive stone terraces and patios are ideal for lounging and sunbathing. Meanwhile, the covered upstairs balconies overlook the pool and lush greenery surrounding the estate.
The landscape received a makeover with a new vineyard to enhance the French-style chateau aesthetic, and 12,000 square feet of fresh natural grass was revitalized. The original rose garden was preserved to honor the legacy of the late Crosby couple. A newly updated, modern fence around the property secures its boundary.
The mansion spreads across 18,500 square feet and includes 11 bedrooms, 10 full baths, and 5 half baths with a separate wing to accommodate guests. Its historic architectural elements were preserved and restored during renovation. These include the original Hearst Linen fold paneling, Venetian glass chandeliers, the black marble fireplace, smoking room bar, and original bathroom fixtures.
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The grand hand-carved banister staircase sourced from Hearst remains the focal point of the interior, while the oval dining room forms the most artistic space in the mansion. This oval room features stunning floral murals hand-painted by renowned artist Albert Proom, depicting a beautiful rose garden. The large dining table with designer chairs enhances the garden feel. You can wander off to the garden via the large French doors, installed to provide a seamless connection with the outdoor space.
The iconic Bing Crosby Estate blends the classic Hollywood charm with a fresh contemporary renovation, preserving the legendary entertainer’s legacy. The current owner has listed the renovated estate for $29 million with Sotheby’s international realty agent Jennifer Gilson. You can own a piece of this golden era if you can gather the fortune required to claim this dreamy estate.
