Inside Ellen DeGeneres’ Former $32 Million Pompeiian Court Estate in Montecito

Television icon Ellen DeGeneres and her wife Portia de Rossi have a reputation for transforming and flipping some of the most iconic properties in California. Their former estate, known as Pompeiian Court, is no exception.

Nestled in the heart of Montecito, this historic property, built in 1919, was listed for $46.5 million and is celebrated for its exquisite Roman-inspired design and sprawling 8-acre grounds. After an extensive renovation, the couple sold the estate in 2024 for $32 million to billionaire Robert Friedman, adding to their legacy as high-profile real estate investors.

Property Highlights

• Price: Sold for $32 million in 2024 (listed for $46.5 million)
• Location: Montecito, California
• Size: Approximately 11,530 square feet
• Land Area: 8 acres
• Notable Features: Six structures, central courtyard with Roman columns, pool house, art studio, staff office, private vineyard, swimming pool, and tennis court.

A Roman-Inspired Architectural Masterpiece

The Pompeiian Court estate is a blend of Roman grandeur and California charm. Designed with classic Mediterranean influences, the estate’s focal point is its central courtyard, surrounded by Roman columns and adorned with an outdoor fireplace.

The courtyard acts as the heart of the home, seamlessly connecting the estate’s six unique structures, including the main house, two guesthouses, a pool house, an art studio, and a staff office.

Elegant Interiors with Historical Touches

The estate spans 11,530 square feet, with interiors that pay homage to its 1919 origins while incorporating modern updates.

The Ellen and Portia Touch

DeGeneres and de Rossi purchased Pompeiian Court in 2023 for $22.5 million and quickly embarked on an extensive restoration. Known for their impeccable taste in real estate, the couple preserved the estate’s historical elements while upgrading it with modern amenities, turning it into a showcase of timeless luxury.

Main Living Room

The main living room in Ellen DeGeneres’s former home exudes a blend of sophistication and comfort, highlighted by vaulted coffered ceilings and striking wrought-iron chandeliers.

French doors open to the outdoors, filling the space with natural light, while a grand fireplace serves as the room’s centerpiece. Neutral-toned furnishings, including a modern curved sofa and woven accent chairs, sit atop an intricate area rug, creating a warm yet elegant atmosphere.

Secondary Living Areas and Media Rooms

The home offers an array of elegant living spaces, each uniquely designed. One room, adorned with intricate wood detailing and a vaulted ceiling, features a cozy fireplace and built-in shelves, creating a warm, library-like atmosphere with French doors opening to the lush outdoors.

Another media room features a plush sectional, a large-screen TV, and arched doors leading to a private balcony, seamlessly blending comfort with classic style.

Octagonal Dining Room

Ellen DeGeneres’s former home features a stunning octagonal dining room that combines elegance with charm. The room is framed by tall French doors and windows that fill the space with natural light, complemented by flowing white curtains.

At the center, a round wooden dining table is surrounded by plush blue chairs, while a fireplace with intricate detailing adds warmth and character. A minimalist light fixture hangs overhead, tying the room’s refined yet approachable design together.

Outdoor Dining

The outdoor dining spaces on the property showcase a blend of elegance and natural charm. One area features a rustic long wooden table with matching chairs, perfectly aligned under manicured hedges and framed by lush greenery, creating a serene and intimate setting.

Another space highlights a covered terrace with arched openings, a wooden ceiling, and a cozy round table, complemented by earthy planters and views of the surrounding landscapes, making it ideal for al fresco dining with a touch of sophistication.

Modern Kitchen

The kitchen is a sophisticated blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. A large, weathered wood island stands as the centerpiece, contrasting beautifully with sleek black cabinetry and stone countertops.

Illuminated by a statement lantern, the space is accented with open shelving displaying fine ceramics, while large windows frame serene views, adding warmth and natural light to the refined design.

Indoor Outdoor Integration

The design emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, with most rooms opening directly to the courtyard or the estate’s gardens.

High-end finishes and tasteful renovations by DeGeneres and de Rossi ensured the home retained its historical charm while meeting modern luxury standards.

Spa House

The spa house in Ellen DeGeneres’s former home is a serene and elegantly designed retreat.

Featuring a domed ceiling with a skylight at its center, the space is lined with recessed niches holding rolled towels and minimalistic sconces for warm lighting.

Adjacent areas showcase arched doorways leading to private soaking tubs, curated spaces with neutral palettes, and an overarching architectural harmony that radiates relaxation and sophistication.

Expansive Grounds and Outdoor Amenities

Set on 8 acres, Pompeiian Court is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The estate includes a private vineyard, manicured gardens, a swimming pool, and a tennis court.

The landscaping reflects the Mediterranean influences of the home, with lush greenery and elegant pathways connecting the various outdoor spaces.

Vineyard

The vineyard at Ellen DeGeneres’s former home is a tranquil expanse of lush grapevines, flanked by mature trees and manicured rose bushes. The picturesque pathway, covered in natural mulch, winds its way through the vineyard, leading to a charming structure with a terracotta-tiled roof that adds rustic charm to the setting.

This serene area exemplifies a balance of cultivated beauty and natural splendor, offering an idyllic retreat within the estate.

Pool and Pool House

The pool at Ellen DeGeneres’s former estate offers a serene and private setting surrounded by lush landscaping, tall cypress trees, and mature palms. The water’s reflective surface enhances the natural beauty of the space, creating a tranquil retreat for relaxation or entertainment.

Behind the pool, the pool house exudes charm with its Spanish-inspired design, featuring a tiled roof, decorative latticework, and shaded lounge chairs, making it a perfect spot for retreating from the sun.

Tennis Court

The private tennis court is nestled amidst the lush greenery of the estate, offering a secluded and picturesque setting for matches. Surrounded by mature trees and natural landscaping, the court ensures privacy.

The well-maintained surface and adjacent seating provide both functionality and comfort, making it a prime spot for recreation.

Conclusion

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi’s Pompeiian Court estate is a stunning example of how history and modernity can coexist harmoniously.

With 11,530 square feet, multiple structures, and a sprawling 8-acre lot, the estate embodies elegance, charm, and privacy. Selling for $32 million, it remains one of Montecito’s most iconic properties and a testament to the couple’s exceptional eye for design and luxury.