Inside a Hollywood Director's Secret Canyon Retreat Above the Palisades

Lucía Torres · 2026-07-22

Tucked away on one of the Lower Riviera's quietest streets, 773 Amalfi Drive in Pacific Palisades is the kind of place that makes you forget you're minutes from the coast. Gated and private, this estate was recently featured in the Los Angeles Times' "Hot Property" section, and once you step inside, it's easy to see why. Perched above Rustic Canyon, the home offers sweeping mountain and canyon views that stretch all the way to the horizon. Represented by The Agency's Parham Mansourian and Mauricio Umansky, the property sits on over 18,000 square feet of land, with graceful old-growth trees shading the manicured lawn and gardens. ### A Home Built for Privacy and Flow Owned by renowned Hollywood director Sam Raimi and designed with the refined touch of interior designer Windsor Smith, this 7,500-square-foot residence unfolds across an expansive floor plan. The foyer leads into an airy dining room, where doors open to perfectly frame the picturesque yard and views beyond. It creates an al fresco atmosphere inside the home, blurring the line between indoors and out. A formal living room anchors the main level with high ceilings, a grand fireplace, and rich architectural detailing. For those who need a quiet escape, a large office offers a moody retreat with a wood-burning fireplace and wall-to-wall built-in cabinetry. ### A Kitchen That Invites You to Stay The gourmet kitchen is outfitted with expansive counter space, an island, and double sinks, plus Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances. It's the kind of kitchen that makes you never want to leave. The space opens into a comfortable living room with a fireplace and a spacious breakfast nook, perfect for both intimate dinners and large gatherings. Large paned windows and French doors let in plenty of sunshine and provide easy access to the patio and expansive backyard. ### The Primary Suite: Your Personal Sanctuary The primary suite is a peaceful refuge with a dedicated sitting area, fireplace, and double French doors leading to a porch that overlooks the property. Dual marble bathrooms and dual closets add to this sanctuary. It's the kind of room that begs for a rainy day and a good book. Five additional ensuite bedrooms feature oversized closets and bespoke wallpapers, complemented by an upstairs sitting room and reading nook. A home gym, executive office, and full smart-home system—with Control4, Lutron lighting, Jandy pool controls, and integrated security—complete the residence. ### Outdoor Living at Its Finest Outside, the estate is built for year-round enjoyment. It features a resort-style lap pool and spa, a full outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven and BBQ, and an outdoor fireplace. Anchoring the property is a charming brick two-story guest house with a downstairs living room and an enchanting upstairs bedroom surrounded by windows. The property offers a serene escape overlooking the Riviera Country Club, but it's just moments from the coast, canyon trails, and the neighborhood's beloved dining and café scene. ### Key Highlights at a Glance - **Location:** Lower Riviera, Pacific Palisades, with canyon views - **Size:** 7,500 square feet on 18,000+ square foot lot - **Bedrooms:** 6 ensuite bedrooms plus guest house - **Bathrooms:** 7+ (including dual marble baths in primary) - **Outdoor:** Lap pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, BBQ, fireplace - **Smart Home:** Control4, Lutron lighting, Jandy pool controls, security - **Guest House:** 2-story brick with living room and bedroom To learn more about 773 Amalfi Drive or to schedule a showing, contact The Agency's Parham Mansourian or Mauricio Umansky.