Despite growing up in the UK, Christine spent much time in the US, including Santa Monica – home to this historic property. Named Villa Ruchelle, this estate (which is one of the world’s best homes) was owned by the executive chairman of Vice Media, Shane Smith. According to an interview with the Wall Street Journal (opens in new tab), Smith told how the house hosted members of the legendary rock band while they recorded a ‘recent reunion album.’ The former owner spent millions updating the home and has captured a feeling of Hollywood’s golden era. It was listed for $50 million in March 2021. He certainly achieved the aesthetic at the villa, which boasts hand-painted ceilings and even a secret onyx-walled speakeasy. The extravagant home has eight bedrooms and two guest houses, a 74-foot pool and pool house with a wood-fired pizza oven, a cedar soaking tub in its own secret spot, and a bocce ball court. The villa is nestled behind a three-acre jungle of palm and fruit trees, ferns and lush gardens, and the pool has distinct Palm Springs vibes with striped parasols and patterned tiles. Between the guest houses and the main house there are 12 bedrooms and 13 baths, measuring a total of 14,000 square feet of living space. There are formal living and dining rooms with hand-painted beamed ceilings, hand-blown glass chandeliers from Venice, a chef’s kitchen (that sets the standard for professional kitchen ideas), a music room, and a master suite with dressing rooms, custom mosaic floors in the bathrooms, a hammam, and private patios. Throughout the house are carved mantels, arched doors and large windows, speaking to its history. One arched doorway leads into a beautiful bathroom with printed tiles, a freestanding tub and views out over the botanical garden. The spacious library holds the house’s secret speakeasy behind its shelves of books, and there’s also a secret staircase leading to the mansion’s wine cellar. Santa Monica is a high-brow celebrity enclave, boasting a three-mile coastline and historic Santa Monica Pier. Close enough to dip into the buzz of LA, but far enough to be a welcome relaxing retreat.
Where do the members of Fleetwood Mac live now?
Hitmakers Fleetwood Mac created some of the world’s most iconic songs. Mick Fleetwood now reportedly spends much of his time in Maui, where he has a property near Napili Bay. Singer Stevie Nicks owns a number of homes, including a luxury condo in Santa Monica. Pictures courtesy of Top Ten Real Estate Deals (opens in new tab)
