Elizabeth Taylor's former Bel Air estate is undergoing a substantial restoration and expansion, with developer Ardie Tavangarian aiming to preserve key aspects of the property where the iconic actress lived for 30 years. The project, which Tavangarian describes as a continuation of Taylor's legacy, seeks to blend the original 60-year-old structure with a significant new addition.
Tavangarian purchased the 1.3-acre property in the summer of 2021 for $15 million and plans to invest an additional $47 million into the restoration and buildout. Persistent public concerns about the demolition of the historic home have been addressed, with Tavangarian emphasizing that much of the interior will remain as it was during Taylor's occupancy.
Preserving Taylor's Living Spaces
The restoration will see the preservation of Taylor's master bedroom, bathroom, and beauty center, maintaining their condition as when she lived there. A distinctive room where the actress kept her extensive jewelry collection in velvet-lined cases is also being preserved. Tavangarian intends to modernize these spaces for functionality while retaining their historical significance. He also plans to incorporate a gallery within the home dedicated to Elizabeth Taylor-related artwork.
Taylor acquired the estate in 1981 and resided there until her death in 2011. The original 7,000-square-foot home, with its five bedrooms, will serve in part as an "Elizabeth Taylor wing." The exterior brickwork of the existing home will be maintained and extended to the new structure to ensure a cohesive aesthetic.
Expansion and Modern Amenities
The project includes a substantial 12,000-square-foot addition that will connect to the existing home. This expansion involves significant engineering, including subterranean framing and deep foundation footings designed to support underground structures and manage shifting earth. The new section will feature three bedrooms, a high-end screening room, a spa, and a "pajama room" for entertainment.
A notable feature of the expansion will be a 4,500-square-foot retractable roof designed for stargazing. The development also includes leveling a large hill adjacent to the house to create space for the new construction and outdoor amenities.
Landscaping and Future Focus
Original landscaping elements are slated for preservation, including Taylor's sapphire-colored pool, a koi pond, and rose gardens. Climbing rose arbors and a hybrid tea rose named "Elizabeth Taylor" will also be maintained. The bamboo that was on the now-leveled hill will be removed.
Tavangarian, a developer known for ultra-luxury properties, views this project as potentially his final endeavor in that sector. He cited factors such as the pandemic, wildfires, and evolving local legislation as reasons for shifting his focus. Following the completion of the Taylor estate project, Tavangarian plans to concentrate on developing hotels and constructing affordable, fire-resistant homes to aid in rebuilding efforts in the Los Angeles area.
Tavangarian stated he is approaching the restoration with the intent of making the finished home comfortable for Taylor, as if she were his client. The project is expected to be completed next year, with no buyer currently lined up.