Nestled in the heart of Encino, California, this awe-inspiring 11,762-square-foot estate marries the classic with the contemporary, offering a stunning 6-bedroom, 12-bathroom residence that speaks to lovers of both modernist design and nature. This luxurious property, now listed for $17.775 million, is the masterful creation of Rachel Winter, a celebrated producer known for Dallas Buyers Club, and her husband Terence Winter, a renowned writer from The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire.
The estate sits on a sprawling 2.6-acre plot, meticulously landscaped to provide a peaceful retreat amidst the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles. Once owned by Golden Girls actress Rue McClanahan, this home has since been entirely transformed by the Winters and architect Linda Brettler, taking inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural legacy with a unique blend of modernist prairie design, now lovingly called “Asian prairie” by Rachel Winter.
From the moment you approach the residence through its private gates, the grandeur of this modern mansion is immediately evident. The entrance opens into a striking two-story foyer, where Mondrian-inspired towering glass walls flood the space with natural light, creating a seamless connection between the home’s interior and its lush, landscaped surroundings. The intricate design of the windows is not just a visual spectacle; it serves to highlight the estate’s scenic views of the sprawling gardens, pool area, and beyond.
The gourmet kitchen is another standout feature, boasting top-of-the-line Poggenpohl cabinetry, a custom hammered steel range hood, and leathered quartzite countertops. The kitchen is a haven for any culinary enthusiast, with its professional-grade appliances and a massive center island that invites both intimate family gatherings and large-scale entertaining. Adding to the estate’s functional luxury, the home also includes a butler’s pantry and a private balcony attached to the primary suite, allowing homeowners to enjoy sweeping views of the garden while sipping their morning coffee.
The primary suite is a true sanctuary. This expansive space features two walk-in closets, an intimate lounge area, and a bathroom that epitomizes lavish comfort. Rachel Winter describes her bathroom as “Gucci-esque,” referencing the coral pink and jade green accents that adorn the room’s striking tiling. The oversized Roman tub adds a touch of grandeur, creating the perfect space to relax after a long day.
For family fun and relaxation, the mansion offers a variety of high-end amenities, including a private movie theater—designed with an old-school Hollywood flair—a fully-equipped gym, and a game room. Outdoors, you’ll find a true paradise: a resort-like backyard complete with a swimmer’s pool, a sunroom, and even a network of private hiking trails. The property also boasts a fruit grove, a fully enclosed dog run, and an expansive outdoor fireplace area for entertaining. This estate is designed to cater to both social occasions and private family moments in equal measure.
Beyond the main living quarters, the estate includes a detached office/studio/guesthouse with a kitchenette, offering guests or creative professionals a secluded and peaceful space to work or relax. The three-car garage, along with a valet parking area, ensures ample space for both family and visitors.
Color plays a significant role throughout the home. From the coral pink cabana to the jade green tile accents by the pool, the color palette reflects Rachel Winter’s artistic vision, harmonizing the home’s various elements. Each room in the house has been thoughtfully designed to create a sense of continuity, with colors like coral, black, jade, and white woven into the architectural details.
The Winters first purchased the property in 2017 for $5.6 million. Although it was originally designed by the same architect responsible for the Playboy Mansion, the home had lost much of its original character due to alterations made over the years. Seeing the potential in the location and structure, Rachel Winter worked to restore and redesign the home, bringing her artistic vision to life.
With their two children now grown and having left home, the Winters have decided to sell the estate, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. As Rachel Winter aptly put it, “Life has a way of telling you when to make moves.”