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Located in the prestigious Lower North Hillsborough neighborhood, the Crosby Estate is one of the most significant properties in Northern California. A private and expansive estate spanning 5.36 acres across four separate parcels, this French chateau-style masterpiece blends architectural grandeur, historic legacy, and modern luxury. Designed in 1929 by renowned architects John Bakewell Jr. & Ernest Weihe, this extraordinary residence has been home to legendary figures, including Hollywood icon Bing Crosby and Charles Howard, the famed owner of the legendary racehorse Seabiscuit.
The estate’s grand proportions and thoughtfully designed floor plan make it ideal for both intimate family living and large-scale entertaining. The residence features approximately 13,635 square feet of finished living space (18,535 square feet total), offering 11 bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms, and 5 half bathrooms across four levels.
Upon entering the home, a dramatic entry hall with soaring ceilings, ornate plaster paneling, and elegant wood flooring sets the stage for the rest of the estate. The formal living room, anchored by a stunning marble fireplace, is adorned with intricate detailing, evoking the charm of a classic European estate. Adjacent is a richly paneled library, complete with a black marble fireplace mantel, custom built-in bookcases, and large windows that frame breathtaking views of the manicured grounds.
The formal dining room, an architectural masterpiece, features an oval shape, an exquisite Venetian chandelier, and hand-painted rose garden wall designs created by artist Albert Proom. This space has hosted countless gatherings, with a level of refinement rarely seen in modern estates. Nearby, the smoking room and bar provide a cozy retreat, perfect for relaxed entertaining.
This home was built for those who appreciate luxury, privacy, and timeless elegance. The thoughtfully designed floor plan balances grand entertaining spaces with intimate family areas. The gourmet kitchen, equipped with a large pantry, seamlessly connects to a casual breakfast room and a mudroom that leads to the four-car garage. A private office with an en-suite bedroom provides the perfect space for guests or staff quarters.
The second floor features four generously sized bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite with two en-suite bathrooms. Each additional bedroom includes its own en-suite bath, ensuring ultimate comfort and privacy for family and guests. The second level also connects to the estate’s private wing, which houses an additional five bedrooms and four bathrooms, creating a perfect retreat for extended family or live-in staff.
The estate continues to impress with its additional living spaces, including a fully finished attic with a game room, an extra bedroom, and multiple storage rooms. A lower-level basement provides ample storage, a laundry room, and additional functional spaces that could be reimagined for modern use.
The estate’s sprawling 5.36-acre lot, spread across four separate parcels, offers exceptional potential for expansion or customization. Once home to Seabiscuit’s stables and an oval riding track, the property’s rich equestrian history adds to its unique appeal. Today, the lush, meticulously landscaped grounds feature manicured gardens, serene walking paths, and an abundance of mature trees that provide an unmatched sense of privacy and tranquility.
Outdoor entertaining spaces include multiple terraces and patios, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Hillsborough landscape. The grounds once housed a grand swimming pool, later removed by Bing Crosby, but ample space remains for the addition of a modern pool, guest house, or further enhancements tailored to the buyer’s vision.
Beyond its Hollywood and equestrian ties, the Crosby Estate is a prime example of French Renaissance Revival architecture. Inspired by the grandeur of Champ Soleil in Newport, Rhode Island, and La Lanterne at Versailles, the home reflects European sophistication at its finest. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the hand-carved wooden staircase banister to the “linen fold” paneling—both sourced from the personal collection of William Randolph Hearst.
The home’s architectural integrity has been carefully preserved, with original details still intact, including hardwood parquet floors, ornate light fixtures, and intricate crown moldings. These timeless elements blend seamlessly with thoughtful updates made over the years, ensuring the estate remains a functional yet historically significant residence.
Bing Crosby, one of America’s most beloved entertainers, purchased the estate in 1965 with his wife, Kathryn Crosby. Originally hesitant about moving to Hillsborough, Kathryn fell in love with the estate’s French-inspired design, soaring ceilings, and secluded setting. The Crosbys embraced the home’s elegance, making it their sanctuary away from Hollywood.
Bing’s love for music, film, and refined living is evident throughout the property. The library, often referred to as “Bing’s Den,” features antique European paneling acquired from Marion Davies, the longtime mistress of William Randolph Hearst. The estate was also home to several musical gatherings, with a grand piano that appeared in the 1956 film High Society, starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra.
Throughout their years at the estate, the Crosbys made several enhancements, including the addition of custom furnishings, carefully curated antiques, and design elements that reflected their refined taste. The home remained Kathryn Crosby’s residence until 2024, marking the end of an era for one of Hillsborough’s most iconic properties.
The Crosby Estate is more than just a home; it is a rare and irreplaceable piece of California’s history. With its unparalleled combination of Hollywood glamour, architectural excellence, and historical significance, this estate stands as one of the most important properties in Hillsborough.
Opportunities to own a property of this magnitude and provenance are exceedingly rare. Whether you seek an elegant private retreat, a grand estate for entertaining, or an investment with incredible expansion potential, this home offers an unmatched canvas for the next chapter in its storied legacy.
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