By Laura Dixon
As anyone who has ever been through Beverly Hills, California, can attest, the breathtaking mansions located in this wealthy neighborhood are some of the most impressive in the nation. Whether homes to celebrities or to lesser known affluent residents, these elegant homes are more than just another humble abode.
Geography
The luxurious mansions and posh community of Beverly Hills are found in the western part of Los Angeles, just alongside West Hollywood. Along with the equally chic and wealthy neighborhoods of Bel-Air and Holmby Hills, this residential area is known as the "Platinum Triangle."
History
In 1906, land management company Percy H. Clark Co. announced that Beverly Hills was ready for residents and declared it a beautiful suburban oasis where custom homes would be built. Though the land changed owners a few times throughout the years, the construction of the first Beverly Hills mansions in the 1920s paved the way for what was to become the most lavish neighborhood in the country.
Size
Beverly Hills mansions vary widely in size and showiness, ranging from smaller homes with 3,500 square feet to enormous mansions measuring more than 32,000 square feet total. While the average Beverly Hills mansion contains about 5 to 7 bedrooms, some larger models can have as many as 16.
Features
The estates of Beverly Hills are famous for their extravagant features and extras. Celebrities and other local residents have been known to equip their mansions with Jacuzzis, swimming pools built with cascading waterfalls, tennis and basketball courts, guest homes, fountains, spacious home gymnasiums, recording studios and even nightclubs.
Famous Ties
Numerous Beverly Hills mansions are occupied by celebrities, including award-winning actors, musicians, athletes and directors. Due to the fame of many of these residents, the homes are often built with a special eye toward privacy, including complex security gates and strategically placed trees to shield from the watchful eye of the paparazzi.
Resources
About the Author:
Currently based in France, Laura Dixon has been a freelance writer since 2008. Dixon specializes in various topics including health, travel and culture. Previously, she worked as a weekly newspaper reporter in Central California. Dixon holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications and international relations from the University of California.
