Royal Realty: A Journey Through Meghan And Harry’s Californian Palace
By Makungu H
This article was originally published on whythese
Let’s be honest, we’re all a little obsessed with the glamorous and extravagant lives of the royals. So, when one of the heirs to the British throne decided to say “cheerio” to his family, the throne, and boatloads of cash, the world couldn’t get enough of the drama.Sure, Harry may have been sixth in line (trailing behind his adorable nieces and nephews who can barely tie their shoelaces), but his marriage to Meghan and their bold decision to step away from royal duties left everyone stunned. But here’s the kicker: even though they waved goodbye to the royal gig, they’re still living a life that most of us can only dream of.Now, let’s dive into the property that Meghan and Harry now proudly call “home.Landlord woes
Many of us have experienced the joys of having landlords, and unfortunately, some of those experiences can be downright dreadful—those who take pleasure in overcharging for “maintenance,” jacking up the rent, or springing surprise eviction notices on their tenants without any reasonable notice.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/hbz-frogmore-cottage-image-direct-1543339308-1_img_64a8529b0406e_img_653df673df944.jpg)
The heart of the home
The kitchen serves as the vibrant heart and soul of every home, where families can gather, engage in heartfelt conversations, and enjoy the delightful scents of a simmering meal on the stove. However, the kitchen in this residence bears no resemblance to the modest kitchens of our childhood memories.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MeghanHarry_MontDocHouse6-1024x683_img_64a8529bac93c_img_653df67525b17.jpg)
Workin’ up a sweat
Every mansion needs a room to work off all the delicious food made in the stunning kitchen we saw above! This is no ordinary workout room with three dumbbells and a yoga mat, oh no. It’s a fully equipped gym complete with numerous cardio machines and floor-to-ceiling mirrors.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/5vg9N60EgHzwA0OE_img_64a8529c25dc4_img_653df67643bd1.jpg)
Luxury lounging
Speaking of pools, let’s dive into the outdoor area that awaits. With loungers perfectly positioned to admire the glistening ocean beyond a lush backdrop of palm trees and rolling hills, it’s an absolute feast for the eyes. This is what Californian dreams are made of!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MeghanHarry_MontDocHouse15-1024x683_img_64a8529cc0da9_img_653df677220f8.jpg)
A resting place for lucky guests
Should the owners choose to throw a grand party, they would have the option to provide their guests with accommodation in a guesthouse that could easily surpass the quality of many people’s homes. Perched atop a spacious five-car garage, the guesthouse is nestled amidst the lush foliage that graces the entire property.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HUHH2022_Curb-Appeal_Lilac-Montecito-04.jpg.rend_.hgtvcom.651.651_img_64a8529d947ac_img_653df6781c6de.jpg)
A slice of peace
If the guesthouse is impressive, it’s no surprise that the main bedroom is equally stunning. Occupying a significant portion of the downstairs area, it stands alone as the sole bedroom on this level, ensuring the utmost privacy for its occupants.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MeghanHarry_MontDocHouse10-1024x683_img_64a8529e409d2_img_653df678e855e.jpg)
View from the top
The private terrace in the main bedroom is just one of the many outdoor areas in this house. A spacious wrap-around terrace envelops the entire house, offering ample seating options that allow you to enjoy breathtaking views from any angle.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Terrace-729x1024_img_64a8529f1462a_img_653df679e3ea2.jpg)
R’n’R
The family room adjoining the kitchen exudes a casual atmosphere, representing the epitome of informality in this house. Despite mahogany-colored beams and a chandelier that exudes a medieval aesthetic, the room maintains a relaxed ambiance through the cozy fireplace and plush furnishings.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Family-room_img_64a8529f640e9_img_653df67b0f734.jpg)
Rub a dub dub
Is there anything more relaxing than sinking into a warm bath after a stressful day? We love to take a relaxing bath while sipping on a glass of red wine and letting the aromas of the bath oils soothe our frayed nerves.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MeghanHarry_MontDocHouse11-1024x683_img_64a8529fd9bac_img_653df67c4ab4a.jpg)
A world of wood
Wood takes center stage throughout the mansion, but it finds its most prominent role in the study. From the floors and shelves to the ceilings and select furnishings, the extensive use of wood creates an ambiance reminiscent of a classic, nostalgic library..![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MeghanHarry_MontDocHouse5-1024x683_img_64a852a05d299_img_653df67d7a576.jpg)
California dreaming
After reportedly being given the boot by dear old dad, Harry and his beloved wife found their new abode in the very land his ancestors “discovered”: the United States of America. Swapping the chilly and damp English weather, the couple set their sights on the land of dreamers: sunny California.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/4445368_img_64a852a1923dd_img_653df67e6df61.jpg)
A playroom for perfect children
While the study exudes an adult atmosphere, this room belongs to the kids. It’s undoubtedly one of the most well-organized playrooms we’ve come across. With all those pristine white furnishings, we can only imagine how different it would look if our children had free rein—paint splatters galore!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Bedroom-3-harry-meghan-netflix-house-toptenrealestatedeals-12222022-870x605-1_img_64a852a2ab8e2_img_653df67f51220.jpg)
Something new, something borrowed
The mansion borrowed by the couple to film their Netflix show is rumored to carry an astounding price tag of $33.5 million. Situated less than five miles from their actual residence, it bears a striking resemblance to their real home, despite their own property being valued significantly lower than $33 million.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/f2bf123b-d348-43c9-9454-07694b57a9b9-harry-and-meghans-netflix-mansion-exterior_img_64a852a3e273a_img_653df6802dcb0.jpg)
Movie nights will never be the same
The teenagers of the house have their own dedicated hangout space in the form of this theater room. It has likely witnessed many Saturday night movie marathons, and we can easily picture teenagers inviting their friends to relax on the plush couches and enjoy a film together.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MeghanHarry_MontDocHouse9-1024x683_img_64a852a524a9a_img_653df68137656.jpg)
A royal room for a royal family
If you’ve tuned into Harry and Meghan’s docu-series, you might find this next room quite familiar. This particular room was a prominent setting for many of their interviews captured on film. No wonder they chose this space, as the view visible through the expansive arched windows is nothing short of spectacular!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cd303f63-075b-46f7-8358-69dbfaf0b0c3-inside-harry-and-meghans-netflix-mansion-inside_img_64a852a5a0316_img_653df68237fab.jpg)
Meal with a view
On the expansive wrap-around terrace, one of the seating areas effortlessly transitions into an informal dining space on the balcony. Here, you can relish a delightful meal while being captivated by yet another awe-inspiring vista that this remarkable home presents.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/to61SkAK_img_64a852a6d4bda_img_653df68389411.jpg)
For a finer palate
Contrasting with the more casual dining area, the formal dining space exudes an even greater level of elegance and sophistication. The room boasts a massive domed ceiling, while a dazzling crystal chandelier graces it, enhancing its grandeur and adding a touch of luxurious glamor.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Dining-room-twilight_img_64a852a802948_img_653df68428b76.jpg)
Not just a pretty face
Have you ever encountered a house with a breathtaking interior but a lackluster garden? It’s like meeting someone with stunning looks but a terrible personality—an absolute letdown. Well, this house breaks that pattern. It offers the best of both worlds: a magnificent interior and an equally stunning garden.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/MeghanHarry_MontDocHouse14-1024x683_img_64a852a8b3fec_img_653df68554e7f.jpg)
A gardener’s paradise
Maintaining a property of this magnitude, especially with an expansive garden, can indeed incur significant costs. The demands of constant upkeep and meticulous care can be overwhelming for those without a green thumb. However, for passionate and dedicated gardeners, it presents an exciting challenge!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/chicken-coops-2-harry-meghan-netflix-house-toptenrealestatedeals-12222022-870x580-1_img_64a852a9f3181_img_653df68687967.jpg)
Curb appeal
Wherever you wander within the walls of this enchanting house, delightful vistas of verdant green gardens greet you—and the driveway is no exception! Now, let’s be honest, most of us are accustomed to having a plain, old driveway that barely accommodates a single car.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Drive-harry-meghan-netflix-house-toptenrealestatedeals-12222022-870x580-1_img_64a852ab342e0_img_653df6879d693.jpg)
From one grand mansion to another
If, like us, you’re currently in the clutches of intense house envy, brace yourself—it’s about to get even more intense. While Harry and Meghan’s borrowed home was undeniably stunning, their actual residence takes breathtaking and luxurious to a whole new level.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ERJ4K265ZJW3MLT4XO2KAHGYXU-1024x575-1_img_64a852ac6fac5_img_653df68881c40.jpg)
Stranger danger
When Harry and Meghan made their departure from the monarchy, security emerged as one of the most contentious issues. During their revealing interview with Oprah Winfrey, the couple disclosed that they no longer possessed any entitlement to a security detail after they decided to step down from the royal family.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/meghan-markle-2-94e47994df53425784567590769bf3d2-1024x683_img_64a852adab507_img_653df68967b14.jpg)
As close to Fort Knox as it gets
Despite the exhaustive security measures taken by Meghan and Harry to safeguard their home, unfortunate intrusions have still occurred. Demonstrating their astuteness, they wisely refrained from showcasing their actual residence in the Netflix docu-series. Moreover, the property requires considerable effort to access, further enhancing its privacy and seclusion.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Harry-Meghan-Hire-Barack-Obamas-Former-Security-Guard-What-Know-004_img_64a852af10952_img_653df68a62985.jpg)
For summer barbecues
If you’re going to live in California, it would do you good to make sure you have plenty of outdoor space. After all, you can’t let all that good weather go to waste. Harry and Meghan have made sure to have a couple of places where they can soak up the sunshine.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/J6LQEWTT77UTAXL6DRYJPI6RVY-1024x683-1_img_64a852afdf471_img_653df68bc17d5.jpg)
One heck of a backyard
No summertime party is truly complete without indulging in some pool time. But you guessed it because this isn’t just any ordinary pool— it is a massive pool with a built-in hot tub and countless sun loungers and umbrellas. It’s the perfect place to catch a tan.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/a2d2da4b-ffa9-4f8b-9d70-3fbc8e38fbb7-meghan-markle-mansion-pool_img_64a852b154a04_img_653df68d1ae48.jpg)
For Netflix and chilling
Of course, any self-respecting mansion must come equipped with a theater. Anything less would be a complete waste! The theater in Harry and Meghan’s real home also has the big beams and wooden features we saw in their borrowed home.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/72feb36f-41f9-45ef-b97c-11d2d5cf1077-meghan-markle-mansion-cinema_img_64a852b2ae592_img_653df68eac655.jpg)
The perfect place to frolic
Meghan describes Montecito as a sanctuary of joy and healing; looking at her garden, we can see why. The couple recently showed a short clip of Harry walking through the garden barefoot and carrying their baby Archie. The father and son then stop to admire the fruit on one of their peach trees.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/be12d3eabf93-prince-harry-meghan-markle-giggster-garden-z-1_img_64a852b4205ee_img_653df68fc709d.jpg)
Quite the first impression
Just when we thought their outside area couldn’t get any more beautiful, we stumbled across this photo of the front of the couple’s home. Look at the ivy slinking up the side of the house, the bright-colored flowers, and the breathtaking Californian sunset. Amazing!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/7L3TFNDE2XE2CPOZXHE3Y3FN2Y-1024x720-2_img_64a852b55b6b4_img_653df690eaeb3.jpg)
Village-sized home
Attempting to comprehend the sheer magnitude of this home purely through numbers and specifications may prove challenging. However, looking at a Birdseye view of the property really makes the you appreciate the enormous scale of the mansion. It’s almost like a little village.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/1db8efd3-00d2-460b-8c85-2802d254305a-meghan-markle-mansion-outside_img_64a852b69257b_img_653df6920634b.jpg)
Eclectic wall art
Harry’s move to California may have been rooted in something more profound than a love for the ocean. According to sources, shortly before his mother’s passing, Princess Diana had planned to move to Malibu with her sons. Tragically, she passed away without ever living out that dream.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/california-image-1599917117_img_64a852b7cf73f_img_653df692f2bb8.jpg)
Next-level sleepovers
Harry and Meghan’s residence includes a dedicated guesthouse for visiting family members, much like the borrowed house. While it’s safe to assume that Meghan’s relatives are more inclined to utilize this space, Harry’s relatives, including his older brother, the future king of England.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/898fe173-19b8-4598-a906-2dbc327fbc0e-meghan-markle-mansion-bedroom_img_64a852b8b15b0_img_653df6942979a.jpg)
Plenty of places to lay your head
If, by some stroke of luck, Harry and Meghan find themselves hosting more than two visitors at a time, they can rest assured that space won’t be an issue. Their home boasts a whopping nine bedrooms! Nine! The whole family could sleep in separate rooms and still have five rooms to spare.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/HI4VXY26DBDSVV2DEUINNKVTWU-1024x711-1_img_64a852b9e4146_img_653df695522f9.jpg)
A lot of nooks and crannies
In addition to the nine bedrooms, the couple’s house boasts an impressive 16 bathrooms. We need help understanding why anyone would require such an abundance of bathrooms. But that’s not all! The home also features an arcade, a gym, and a charming tea house.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/meghan-harry-google-earth-34-1024x683_img_64a852bae397b_img_653df69678076.jpg)
The adults’ playground
The kitchen may be the most essential room in a home, but the wine cellar comes in at a close second. Well, maybe our “wine cellar” is just a modest wine rack tucked away in the pantry, but that doesn’t stop us from daydreaming about having a grand wine cellar like this one someday.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/OELHK3WTAEY2IDLTXTPIMUII6Q-1024x683-1_img_64a852bb6b600_img_653df697e1695.jpg)
A place for childhood memories
If the wine cellar is a dream playground for adults, this is the kids’ equivalent. Lilibet and Archie, indeed, exhaust themselves playing on this jungle gym. Although they may be too small for the bigger slides now, they will soon launch themselves off those too.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/08cacfef-0774-4565-a86f-c28f3e46b76f-meghan-markle-mansion-playground_img_64a852bc4576b_img_653df6992aa7d.jpg)
Where the magic happens
If you’re curious to glimpse the room where Harry and Meghan rest, we regret to inform you that the couple has managed to keep that area of their home entirely private. All we have is a rendering, a mere representation of the room. Our curiosity remains unsatisfied, but the mystery adds to their allure.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/prince-harry-meghan-markle-bedroom_img_64a852bd156bb_img_653df69a23709.jpg)
Work, work, work
It is said that Meghan has always preferred neutral and natural colors, along with a Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic, when it comes to furnishing her homes. The décor of her study, as depicted below, certainly reflects these choices. The soothing colors create a tranquil ambiance that complements the striking stone fireplace in the background.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/58950283-9d4f-407c-ac94-37cc6ac07a82-meghan-markle-home-office_img_64a852bdbc2ed_img_653df69ae6614.jpg)
More rooms for chilling
Upon careful examination of the listing site photos and images of Meghan in her study, astute netizens deduced that the couple likely repurposed their family room into a study. Upon closer inspection of this picture, one might notice striking similarities to the study photo. The evidence suggests a clever transformation in the home’s layout.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/b83e1757-60bf-4597-965d-0a1f89345650-meghan-markle-mansion-livingroom_img_64a852be76afb_img_653df69bd50c8.jpg)
Cookin’ up a storm
You’ll likely find her in the kitchen when Meghan isn’t busy filming her Netflix docu-series, recording her podcast, or working on her numerous other projects. Sources reveal that Meghan cooks for her family daily, defying the celebrity stereotype of always relying on chefs. Just imagine a celebrity with actual culinary skills!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/b265986af8e0-kitchen-archie-baking-z.jpg_img_64a852bf4a91a_img_653df69d1f82a.jpg)
For fancier lounging
The couple’s residence also boasts a formal lounge, albeit one with a distinctly antique ambiance compared to the lounge in their temporary home. The presence of thick wooden beams, sconces, chandeliers, and rich colors contrasts the relaxed Californian aesthetic.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/NHVP7CKYVSMNF27KJL4IXKRHAE-1024x683_img_64a852bfb20ad_img_653df69e238ce.jpg)
A princess room for Lilibet
As we bid farewell to this visual tour of the couple’s home, we can only imagine how their personal touch brought the space to life, making it their own. Among the fascinating features captured in the listing photos, one delightful highlight was the enchanting peek into the children’s room.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/RUDJQLDBY25S6WIXYEPWMTSOVQ-1024x697-1_img_64a852c0765ea_img_653df69f5fc18.jpg)
Hi neighbor
If this article has sparked your interest in owning a Montecito mansion, here’s some good news! The house next door to the couple was recently up for sale (although it’s likely already sold). You could have been their neighbor for a mere $21 million and casually greeted Harry and Meghan with a friendly “hi!”![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/montecito-home-for-sale-104-1_img_64a852c15157e_img_653df6a08de87.jpg)
Mother nature’s wrath
Now, on a more serious note, for anyone considering purchasing a home in the vicinity, consider all factors before making a decision. While the neighborhood is generally regarded as safe and enjoys a stellar reputation, it is important to acknowledge the unpredictable forces of nature that have recently taken their toll.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Montecito-flooding-1024x576_img_64a852c22ada4_img_653df6a1a388d.jpg)
Is a move in the cards?
Rumors circulate that severe weather and persistent security issues may prompt Meghan and Harry to bid farewell to their cherished Montecito residence. However, their departure will take them only a short distance from home. Stay tuned to see where their next royal nest will be!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Hope_ranch_east_entrance_img_64a852c29e955_img_653df6a2af455.jpg)
The rich get richer
If you plan to snag Harry and Meghan’s Montecito home once the couple moves out, brace yourself for a hefty price tag. Since their occupancy, the property’s value has skyrocketed by a staggering $12 million. It looks like their royal touch brings a royal premium!![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/ennis3-1024x683_img_64a852c38e039_img_653df6a3ebfdc.jpg)
Archie’s First Birthday
As you probably already know, Harry and Meghan rarely ever share photos of their kids. Or at least they rarely ever did before the docuseries. As such, this photo of them in their California home on Archie’s first birthday was really special.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/meghan-markle-and-prince-archie-1024x511-1-1024x510_img_65856f15516d0.png)
Royals, they’re just like us
Well, at least these two! Painting your nails before an event is something most girls can relate to. Doing it while you and your husband or boyfriend banter is another common occurrence among couples who live together. This is just another example of why these two have so many fans.![](https://docjournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Snapinsta.app_398428701_299150736336611_5563618806466804118_n_1080-1024x960_img_65856f16f3a56.jpg)