Built-in 1912, this stunning Italian Villa in Hillsborough exudes timeless elegance and modern luxury. Originally designed with European flair, the estate has undergone renovations that preserve its historic charm while incorporating contemporary upgrades to electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Listed at $15,999,000, the home spans 8,500 square feet on 1.286 flat acres, featuring a detached five-car garage with an ADU, a tennis court, gardens, and statuary, offering an unrivaled blend of tradition and sophistication.

Front Driveway

Bathed in natural sunlight, the front driveway of this estate invites guests with its circular design and lush landscaping. Tall cypress trees and manicured hedges flank the approach, enhancing the villa’s elegant Italian style. The paved driveway leads to an arched entrance and a sophisticated façade, perfectly where classic details meet modern updates. The blend of traditional materials and contemporary touches creates a welcoming, serene atmosphere that sets the tone for the home’s luxurious character.

Where is Hillsborough?

Hillsborough is an exclusive town located in San Mateo County within the San Francisco Bay Area of California. Renowned for its lush, affluent neighborhoods, this residential enclave sits near Silicon Valley and just south of San Francisco, offering both privacy and accessibility. Rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, Hillsborough is celebrated for its historic estates, expansive green spaces, and scenic vistas, making it a coveted locale that blends modern luxury with timeless Californian charm.

Tennis Court

The outdoor tennis court offers a striking recreational space amid the estate’s meticulously landscaped grounds. Framed by neatly trimmed hedges and mature evergreens, the court’s smooth playing surface is both practical and elegant. Soft, natural light highlights the subtle green tones of the court, while stone steps and terraced landscaping create an inviting approach. This well-appointed area unmistakably reflects the property’s commitment to luxurious living, combining leisure, style, and functionality in a seamless outdoor setting.

Garden

A charming garden space unfolds beside the villa, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of blooming flowers and manicured lawns. Colorful bougainvillea and carefully arranged flower beds enhance the lush greenery surrounding the home’s exterior. Large, shuttered windows open into this serene outdoor haven, inviting abundant natural light. The garden’s balanced design and artful landscaping create an atmosphere of peaceful retreat, merging historical elegance with nature’s refreshing beauty and providing a truly exquisite setting for outdoor relaxation.

Pool Area

The in-ground Pebble-Tec pool dazzles amid the estate’s outdoor luxury, reflecting shimmering sunlight on its crystal-clear surface. Surrounded by immaculately trimmed hedges and colorful rose bushes, the pool area exudes a resort-like ambiance. Multiple lounging spaces with comfortable seating and umbrellas invite relaxation. Elegant stonework and gentle water features enhance the serene atmosphere, perfectly complementing the Italian Villa’s historic charm and modern amenities, creating a captivating retreat for leisure and entertainment designed for ultimate enjoyment.

Rear Terrace

Set behind towering cypress trees, this expansive rear terrace showcases multiple arched doorways leading to the villa’s interior. A series of wide, gracefully tiered steps ascends to a large patio, where decorative sculptures and vibrant flowering shrubs accentuate the home’s Italianate design. Pale stucco walls reflect warm sunlight, while a tiled roof adds Old World charm. Ample seating areas invite relaxation, and ornamental balustrades frame lovely garden views, enhancing the estate’s grandeur and welcoming ambiance.

Garden Statue

Nestled within a perfectly trimmed circular hedge, this ornamental garden statue adds whimsical charm to the estate’s outdoor design. The light-colored sculpture, featuring a stylized dolphin figure, stands at the center of a gravel pathway shaded by a mature magnolia tree. Surrounding greenery and carefully maintained shrubbery create a peaceful setting for reflection and leisure. The contrast between the sculpture’s smooth texture and the lush vegetation highlights the property’s harmonious blend of art and nature.

Spiral Staircase

A dramatic white spiral staircase sweeps upward against a backdrop of pale, stone-patterned walls, serving as the home’s architectural centerpiece. Intricately carved balusters and a curved handrail lead the eye toward an oval skylight, introducing a sense of vertical grandeur. Rich hardwood flooring contrasts elegantly with the crisp white trim, while soft, recessed lighting enhances the staircase’s graceful silhouette. This centerpiece connects multiple levels of the home, marrying Old World artistry with timeless contemporary sophistication.

Grand Salon

Flooded with natural light from a series of arched French doors, this grand salon features soaring ceilings and intricately carved moldings. Ornate crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the richly patterned rug and a gilded central table, creating an opulent atmosphere. Tall potted palms add a tropical touch, while plush chairs with ornate frames provide comfortable seating. Elegant parquet flooring completes the refined design, reflecting the room’s fusion of European elegance and modern grandeur.

Arched Windows

Illuminated by the gentle glow of nearby chandeliers, these arched windows form a striking focal point within the grand salon. Their tall, curved frames invite abundant natural light, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor living. A decorative table with ornate carvings and a polished marble top sits at the center, adding flair. Plush seating along the walls encourages relaxation, while the rich color palette, layered textiles, and refined finishes underscore the estate’s lavish yet welcoming spirit.

Dining Room

Inviting, the dining room features tall French doors opening onto lush garden views. The walls display a delicate, textured finish complemented by ornate crown molding and gilded sconces. A glass-topped table seats eight upholstered chairs with curved armrests, uniting modern elegance with classic refinement. Parquet flooring anchors the space, reflecting the serene natural light. Decorative pieces and framed artwork add sophistication. Overall, the room’s warm ambiance creates an ideal setting for formal gatherings.

Living Room

 Bright and airy, the living room combines classic sophistication with relaxed comfort. Plush seating surrounds a grand fireplace framed by an ornate mirror and decorative sconces. Soft, neutral walls contrast beautifully with the vibrant red area rug, adding warmth and texture. A grand piano rests by large windows, infusing artistic flair. Crown molding highlights the room’s lofty ceiling, while abundant natural light showcases elegant furniture arrangements, making this space ideal for conversation and refined entertaining.

Kitchen

Sleek and functional, the kitchen features custom light-toned cabinetry and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. A professional-grade range and hood complement a spacious refrigerator, ensuring ample storage and cooking power. The neutral palette pairs with polished hardware, creating a clean, contemporary feel. Generous countertop space, a built-in dishwasher, and a convenient layout enhance efficiency. Warm wood flooring underfoot harmonizes with soft natural light from the window, establishing a welcoming environment for culinary pursuits and casual gatherings.

Butler’s Pantry

Designed for both convenience and elegance, the butler’s pantry features ample cabinetry in a light wood finish. Polished countertops provide generous space for meal preparation or staging dinner service. Open shelving displays fine china, while closed cabinets keep additional serving pieces neatly organized. A deep-set window invites natural light, making the narrow layout feel bright and efficient. Soft recessed lighting illuminates silverware and glassware, blending practicality and style in this discreet yet indispensable household amenity.

Executive Office

A dedicated executive office and conference room occupy this airy, wood-beamed space. Plush leather chairs encircle a large meeting table, offering an ideal setting for focused discussions. Natural light streams through multiple paned windows, enhancing productivity and warmth. Exposed timber beams highlight the room’s rustic character, while neutral carpeting adds comfort. A spacious wooden desk faces the entrance, reflecting a professional ambiance. This versatile setup supports both private work and collaborative gatherings with effortless style.

Garage Exterior

Viewed from another angle, the garage’s clean lines and neutral color palette unify with the estate’s overall aesthetic. Large, multi-pane windows on each carriage-style door lend a traditional charm while ensuring natural light. Surrounding foliage and mature trees create a private, tranquil setting. The gravel driveway provides convenient vehicle access, and the carefully maintained shrubbery continues the property’s cohesive landscaping. Subtle architectural details, such as the horizontal roofline, emphasize the structure’s understated sophistication and practicality.

Source: Green Banker Realty via Zillow