The Hearst

Our homes were named for historic, famous estates. Hearst Castle, formally known as La Cuesta Encantada, is now a historic site in San Simeon, on the Central Coast of California. Renowned for its eclectic architectural style, which seamlessly blends Mediterranean, Spanish Colonial, and European Renaissance influences, Hearst Castle is perched atop scenic hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Conceived by William Randolph Hearst, the publishing tycoon and newspaper magnate, and his architect Julia Morgan, it was built between 1919 and 1947. With 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways, this American castle and became one of the world’s greatest showplaces for his art collection.

The castle’s Spanish Colonial Revival design is characterized by red-tiled roofs, stucco walls, and arched doorways. This style was inspired by Hearst’s travels to Spain and Mexico, where he admired the romantic, sun-drenched architecture of the Mediterranean. The use of ornate tile work, wrought iron accents, and colorful frescoes further enhances the Spanish Colonial aesthetic.

Hearst Castle also incorporates elements of Mediterranean Revival architecture, which was popular in California during the early 20th century. This style is evident in the castle’s expansive terraces, loggias, and courtyards, which evoke the grandeur of European palaces and villas. The use of classical columns, marble statues, and lush landscaping adds to the estate’s Mediterranean charm.

Furthermore, Hearst Castle features elements of European Renaissance architecture, particularly in its interiors, which are adorned with priceless works of art, antique furnishings, and elaborate tapestries collected by Hearst during his travels abroad. The grandeur of the castle’s Great Rooms reflects the influence of Renaissance palaces such as the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence and the Alhambra in Spain.

This is an artist’s conceptual illustration of one of the elevations for our Plan J – The Hearst. The additional elevation designs for this floor plan will differ in orientation, color scheme, and exterior finishes.