Hidden behind walls and gates in Old Las Palmas, The Cloisters, known to many as Casa de Liberace, stands among the most celebrated residential estates in Palm Springs. Built in 1930 by Alvah Hicks, whose work helped shape the city during its formative years, this extraordinary Spanish Colonial Revival residence spans more than 8,000 square feet and unfolds through a series of courtyards, gardens, fountains, and architectural spaces rich with character and history. Extensively renovated and carefully stewarded over the years, the estate preserves the craftsmanship and authenticity that define its legacy while embracing the expectations of modern luxury living. Public rooms are extraordinary in both scale and craftsmanship, with original details carefully preserved throughout the estate, including Hispano-Moresque tilework, vintage mirrors, decorative ironwork, and architectural elements rarely found today. …
The Story
501 North Belardo Road
Hidden behind walls and gates in Old Las Palmas, The Cloisters, known to many as Casa de Liberace, stands among the most celebrated residential estates in Palm Springs. Built in 1930 by Alvah Hicks, whose work helped shape the city during its formative years, this extraordinary Spanish Colonial Revival residence spans more than 8,000 square feet and unfolds through a series of courtyards, gardens, fountains, and architectural spaces rich with character and history. Extensively renovated and carefully stewarded over the years, the estate preserves the craftsmanship and authenticity that define its legacy while embracing the expectations of modern luxury living. Public rooms are extraordinary in both scale and craftsmanship, with original details carefully preserved throughout the estate, including Hispano-Moresque tilework, vintage mirrors, decorative ironwork, and architectural elements rarely found today. The formal living room features vaulted truss and beamed ceilings, Spanish tile flooring, a fireplace, and steel-framed glass doors that open to expansive brick terraces. The formal dining room continues the home's rich architectural character and provides an elegant setting for entertaining. The family room showcases massive hand-hewn beams, a second fireplace, and direct access to the surrounding grounds. A gracious loggia overlooks the gardens, outdoor fireplace, and gathering spaces beyond. The gourmet kitchen honors the home's architectural heritage with soapstone counters, rich mahogany finishes, and a handsome butler's pantry. A dramatic gallery lined with ensuite guest rooms creates both architectural interest and exceptional privacy throughout the estate. Among the home's most memorable spaces is the billiard room, distinguished by a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling, clerestory windows, a fireplace adorned with a cast sandstone frieze, and direct access to the namesake cloister courtyard framed by magnificent mountain views. Nearby, a richly detailed den provides a quiet retreat. Privately situated within its own wing, the primary suite is reached through a dedicated vestibule and features ornate wood ceilings, generous proportions, and baths that continue the home's remarkable collection of period tilework and original details. Additional guest accommodations open directly to the pool courtyard. The resort-style pool and spa enjoy a spectacular orientation and dramatic mountain backdrop. Entertaining is effortless with a poolside kitchen, bar seating, pass-through service window, and a substantial outdoor fireplace anchoring the gathering spaces. Adding to the home's lore is a hidden bar reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy. An exterior stairway leads to a second-story viewing deck offering sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape. The estate also enjoys a remarkable setting adjacent to O'Donnell Golf Club and just one block west of Palm Canyon Drive. Rich in history and impossible to replicate, The Cloisters represents a rare opportunity to become the next steward of one of Palm Springs' most significant residential estates.
