John Elgin Woolf: The Architect Who Redefined Hollywood Glamour
In the golden age of Hollywood, where glamour met architectural innovation, John Elgin Woolf became the go-to designer for the stars. His creations, known for their opulent yet timeless Hollywood Regency style, were more than just homes—they were reflections of their illustrious owners. From Cary Grant’s elegant retreat on Beverly Grove Drive to Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy’s romantic haven in Beverly Hills, each address carries a legacy of cinematic history. Whether still standing as icons of an era or merely memories etched in time, these residences tell the story of Hollywood’s brightest stars and the visionary architect who gave them their most stylish stage.
The Miramar Estate: Newport’s Gilded Age Playground
Owning a Gilded Age masterpiece like the Miramar Estate may seem like a fantasy, but for those with deep pockets, these historic mansions occasionally change hands, making history with every sale. The Miramar Estate, a limestone jewel on Newport's Bellevue Avenue, sold for $27 million in September 2021, continuing its remarkable journey through the real estate market. Built in 1915 for the Widener family, the estate was purchased for just $118,000 in 1971, set a record at $17.5 million in 2006, and has now surpassed that milestone. Each sale reflects the enduring allure of Gilded Age architecture and the evolving value of luxury properties as symbols of wealth and cultural heritage.