This House's Driveway Eats Houses for Breakfast
This house has been on the market for the first time in nearly six decades. It's a historic estate in North Laguna Beach.
Specifications
- Lot Size: Over 0.6 acres
- Bedrooms: 4 main bedrooms plus 2 guest bedrooms
- Fireplaces: At least 3 (two in living rooms, one in master suite)
- Pool: Yes, a courtyard pool
- Unique Features: Mediterranean Revival architecture, ocean and Catalina Island views, private gates, motor court, mature gardens
Here's the exterior — whitewashed arches, tile details, and ridiculous views.
Outdoor dining goals — three arches framing the ocean. Cream walls, lush.
Soft neutrals, airy vibe. White sofa, clean lines. Cozy without trying.
Here's the bedroom — sloped wood ceiling, chunky beams, calm whites.
Massive stone fireplace steals the show. Not sure about the mantle though.
Okay, this sofa — bold orange curve. Kinda love it? Glass table keeps airy.
Back outside — white stucco, terra-cotta roof. Raised beds everywhere. why this layout?
Chill patio corner. gray sofa, round white table, breezy and low-key.
Formal dining — crystal chandelier, wainscoting. I mean, cool, but maybe too much?
Here's the kitchen — white cabinets, vintage pulls, soft gray stone. Feels timeless.
Dark floors, light walls, those diamond windows are doing the most.
Another bedroom — high slopes, white beams, calm light everywhere.
From this angle, big arches, whitewashed everything, rustic bits peeking through.
Warm white walls, classic trim, comfy furniture. Simple and kind of perfect.
Entrance shot from above — wrought iron gates, winding stone driveway. Dramatic.
And then this facade — creamy stucco, soft arches. Anyone else getting resort vibes?
Details
This place is called the Hiel Ryder Residence and it's a really special Mediterranean Revival property in a prime spot in North Laguna Beach. It sits on over half an acre and you get these amazing, unobstructed views of the ocean and Catalina Island. You drive through private gates down a tree-lined driveway to get to a motor court, and then the house just kind of appears. Inside, it feels grand but also very livable. Lots of natural light comes in through big windows, and the views are everywhere. There are two living rooms, both with fireplaces, and separate areas for formal and casual dining.
A family room adds another cozy space. You've got four main bedrooms, plus two more for guests. It also has two kitchens. The master suite is a real sanctuary, with its own ocean-view veranda, a sitting area, a fireplace, and a huge dressing room. The original details are still in great shape, like the oak floors, ironwork, carved beams, stained glass, and crystal lights. It all adds up to a very elegant feel. Outside, it’s like a private oasis. The gardens are mature with lots of different trees and plants, including citrus, pines, roses, and succulents. There are stone and brick paths that lead you through to a courtyard pool that also overlooks the ocean. You'll find plenty of terraces and spots to just sit and enjoy the scenery. There's a covered loggia and a big brick terrace, perfect for hosting parties. This estate has been a sanctuary for a hundred years, and now someone has the chance to make it their own and create a new legacy.