Once upon a time, noblemen and women lived in grand manors, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, overlooking breathtaking views. These manors were built by the best craftsmen, constructed with the highest quality materials, such as limestone, mahogany, marble and granite. The walls were upholstered in silk, the ceilings hand-painted by artisans.

An estate of this caliber is available today in prestigious Country Club Estates, a 24-hour guard-gated, private community in Westlake Village. Situated on 4 acres of total privacy, this enticing estate can be found at the end of an olive tree-lined winding brick driveway. The courtyard fountain greets guests as they enter a world of charm and serenity. Columns and stone accented walls are reminiscent of a European mansion of yesteryear. This limestone-clad estate offers five bedrooms, seven full-baths and five half-baths. The home boasts approximately 18,000 square feet of luxury including seven fireplaces, an elevator, a wine cellar, a large separate guest house, pool, spa, two barbecue areas, a media room, a five-car garage, a panic room and a state of the art security system.

As guests enter the home, they will be captivated by the grand two story foyer with a sweeping mahogany staircase which draws the eyes to the hand-painted ceiling and crystal chandelier. The foyer includes his and hers powder rooms and gallery-styled hallways leading to other wings of the estate. The hallways are perfect for showcasing an art collection, with the recessed lighting and

handeliers further bringing out the beauty of the artwork. The marble entryway is imbedded with granite.

The family room offers four distinct seating areas. Imagine having an aperitif near the large limestone and brick fireplace. The sweeping views from each window are awe inspiring. Perhaps visitors would like to take in the view of the fairway from The Pub off the Great Room. The entertaining possibilities are endless at this dignified estate. One cannot help but notice the craftsmanship that went into constructing the coffered and dome-styled ceilings throughout the home. Extra wide crown moldings and baseboards, and wide arched doorways make this home a spectacular work of art. Beveled, leaded glass windows also can be found throughout the home.

The epicurean kitchen is a chef's delight. It includes dual center islands, vegetable sink, professional appliances, wine refrigerators, and marble floors. English Smallbone cabinets adorn the large room which also includes a built-in desk area and bay window over-looking the gardens. There is a butler's pantry with a coffee/espresso bar, double bun warmer, refrigerator and walk in pantry. An adjacent morning room is a perfect place for a cup of coffee or tea while sitting next to another beautiful fireplace. French doors lead out to a barbecue area off the kitchen, in addition to plenty of outdoor seating.

The walls of the formal dining room are appointed with silk which add a touch of Old World elegance. An opulent chandelier adorns the center of the room, while an alcove area provides space for a romantic dinner for two. There is an abundance of room to graciously entertain.

The main floor also features a library bedecked with wall-to-wall mahogany cabinetry and coffered ceilings and inlaid hardwood floors. The oversized marble-face fireplace is a distinguished touch to the room. There are maid's quarters, a large laundry area, and a service entrance. A stairway leads down to the wine cellar and media room. The wine cellar holds more than 1,000 bottles of wine in a climate controlled setting. Down the hall is the media room, which includes a drop-down screen, surround sound technology, acoustic walls and suede theater-style seats. The media room also includes a wet bar and a bathroom down the hall.

The second level brings uncompromising sweeping views of the golf course and surrounding mountain ranges. The regal master suite is approximately 2,000 square feet in size. The television screen drops down from behind a wall in the bedroom for easy viewing. In addition to the sitting area near the fireplace, there are his and hers dressing rooms with adjoining bathrooms. His bath area includes a massage room and office with a balcony, a wet bar, sauna, and granite counters. Her bath area includes a spa-styled tub, gold fixtures, crystal chandeliers, English Smallbone cabinetry, and two walk-in closets, one cedar-lined closet for furs and ball gowns. There are three other complete master suites, complete with fireplaces and walk-in closets. There is a full home gym with mirrored walls and bathroom. Additionally, a separate wing houses a large bonus room, currently used for a personal assistant's office, but can be used as two additional bedrooms, and a separate wrapping room.

The estate is situated amid breathtaking views of the golf course and surrounding mountain ranges. Visitors staying in the guest house meander down a long, arbor-covered path with aromatic vines reminiscent of European gardens. Roses, wisteria, bougainvillea and jasmine grace the manicured gardens and meticulously lush grounds. Sculpted foliage, enchanted rose gardens and cascading fountains make this expansive yard feel dreamlike. The guest house is a spacious replica of the main house. Visitors of the guest house feel at home in their own living room, sitting area and bedroom. The guest house also can be reconfigured as two bedrooms. The guest house, too, is appointed with the finest amenities. The blue tile pool and spa, pergola, barbecue center and parklike setting are ideal for grand scale entertainment.

Words can barely describe the beauty of this mansion. One must experience the beauty first-hand in order to fully understand the charm of this majestic manor. The incredible European-styled details showcase craftsmanship that is rarely seen today. Modern amenities, such as fully automated security and technology systems, are tastefully integrated into the elegant décor. The home feels like a private oasis, exuding warmth and comfort, completely separate from the rest of the world. The new homeowners are sure to live happily ever after in this palatial estate. For more information, contact listing agnt Luzette Vidal with Coldwell Banker Previews International at 443-3004. On the Web, visit the virtual tour at http://www.brookmeadowestate.com.

FOR SALE

Country Club Estates

Westlake Village

$20 million

Luzette Vidal

Coldwell Banker Fine Homes

443-3004

$20,000,000

http://www.brookmeadowestate.com