Equestrian Compound Formerly Owned by Michelle Pfeiffer, Will Rogers Sells

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

A 3.3-acre equestrian compound in Rivas Canyon that was previously owned at times by Will Rogers and Michelle Pfeiffer sold in July for $14,044,000.

“Built as the personal residence of Will Rogers in the 1930s, this ultra-private equestrian estate set on 3.3 acres of luxuriant grounds is hidden in the heart of Pacific Palisades where neighbors ride their horses down the street,” the property description read. “This historic compound boasts five distinct structures: an expansive single-story main house, a staff house, a pool house, stables converted into a state-of-the-art home gym and a newly constructed two-story guest house.”

Since its construction, the home has been “restored and expanded” by former owners, including Pfeiffer. It was “reimagined” by “renowned interior designer” Michael S. Smith.

“This property exudes understated refinement, complementing the rustic setting with its luxuriant park-like grounds, magical gardens and meandering pathways,” the description continued.

The 6,250-square-foot main residence—with four bedrooms and five bathrooms—includes high ceilings and rustic wood beams throughout the living spaces, including a “country-style kitchen” which opens to a “romantic” dining room and “enchanting” two-level library.

“The tranquil primary retreat has direct access to the garden and a spa-like en suite bath,” read the description.

The living spaces “flow out” to covered patios, which feature “stately columns.” The outdoor amenities include a pool and spa, as well as a “fully equipped,” 1,031-square-foot pool house, offering “the ideal summer sanctuary.”

At 446 square feet, the staff house has one bedroom and one bathroom, while the guest house has two stories, each with a bedroom and bathroom, at 1,244 square feet. The gym is approximately 800 square feet.

“This estate is also uniquely suited for equestrian lovers wishing to keep their beloved horses close to home,” the property description concluded. “A rare opportunity for only the most discerning buyers, this unparalleled estate is an enduring piece of Palisades’ history.”

R. Ron Smith and David Berg of Smith & Berg Partners at Compass represented the buyer, while the seller was represented by Cindy Ambuehl, Elizabeth Gottainer and Jeeb O’Reilly of AKG | CHRISTIE’S International Real Estate.

Pfeiffer is an Academy- and Emmy-Award-nominated actress whose career began in the late 1970s, with starring roles in films like “The Russia House” and “What Lies Beneath.”

Vaudeville performer, actor and social commentator Rogers was in 70-plus films throughout his career. He also wrote over 4,000 nationally syndicated newspaper columns. He ran a production company while living in the Palisades—where several areas are now named for him, including Will Rogers State Beach and Will Rogers State Historic Park.