A significant chapter of Hollywood history has returned to the real estate market as the legendary Palm Springs estate once owned by Cary Grant is listed for a staggering $12.7 million. Known as Las Palomas, the sprawling Spanish Colonial Revival villa serves as a testament to the golden age of cinema and the desert city’s enduring allure for the global elite. Located in the prestigious Movie Colony neighborhood, the residence has long been recognized as one of the most historically significant properties in Southern California.
Built in 1927, the estate was originally designed by architect John Byers, who was renowned for his mastery of the Spanish Colonial style. When Cary Grant purchased the home in the 1950s, it became his personal sanctuary for nearly two decades. During his tenure, the property hosted a literal who is who of mid-century celebrity, including frequent visits from his close friend Howard Hughes and various co-stars who sought refuge from the prying eyes of the Los Angeles paparazzi. The actor famously maintained the estate with meticulous care, ensuring that its architectural integrity remained preserved even as modern amenities were introduced.
The main residence spans over 6,000 square feet and is situated on a lush 1.5-acre lot that feels more like a private botanical garden than a desert dwelling. Upon entering the gates, visitors are greeted by thick whitewashed walls, hand-painted tiles, and original terracotta flooring that evokes a sense of timeless Mediterranean elegance. The interior spaces are defined by soaring beamed ceilings and expansive windows that frame views of the San Jacinto Mountains, creating a seamless connection between the luxurious indoor living areas and the rugged natural beauty of the Coachella Valley.
One of the most notable features of the property is the guest wing, which was reportedly modified specifically to accommodate the eccentric preferences of Howard Hughes. This wing offers a level of privacy and autonomy that allowed Grant’s high-profile guests to stay for extended periods without disturbing the main household. Outside, the grounds feature a classic kidney-shaped swimming pool, a championship-sized tennis court, and dozens of mature palm trees that provide shade to the rolling lawns and hidden stone courtyards.
The current listing comes at a time when the Palm Springs luxury market is experiencing a renewed surge in interest. While much of the city is known for its Mid-Century Modern architecture, the Spanish Colonial influence of the Movie Colony neighborhood represents a different era of prestige. For serious collectors of historic real estate, the chance to own a home with such a direct link to a screen legend like Grant is a rare opportunity. The estate has undergone thoughtful renovations over the years to modernize its infrastructure, yet it retains the specific charm and character that Grant cherished during his years of ownership.
Beyond its celebrity pedigree, the home is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. From the hand-carved wooden doors to the intricate ironwork on the balconies, every detail reflects a period when homes were built to last for generations. The master suite is particularly impressive, featuring a private terrace that overlooks the pool area and offers a perfect vantage point for watching the desert sunsets that Grant was known to find so inspiring.
As the $12.7 million listing gains traction among international buyers, real estate experts suggest that the property will likely sell to someone who values the cultural heritage of the site as much as its physical attributes. The sale of Las Palomas is not just a transaction of land and luxury; it is the transfer of a legacy. For the next owner, the estate offers a chance to live within the same walls that once sheltered one of the most sophisticated men in film history, all while enjoying the modern luxuries of one of the world’s premier desert destinations.
