Celebrity Homes

Historic Josephine Baker mansion hits market for €20.84 million

A magnificent 12-bedroom mansion once home to legendary performer Josephine Baker has been listed for sale at €20.84 million (AUD$36.77 million) near Paris.

The nearly 9,000-square-foot Villa Beau-Chêne, located in Le Vésinet, approximately 10 miles from central Paris, sits on 2.5 acres of land surrounded by mature trees, gardens and greenhouses.

Built in 1890-91 by architect Louis Gilbert, the property served as Baker’s residence for 20 years from 1927 to 1947, according to Mansion Global.

The American-born dancer, singer and civil rights activist used the estate as a sanctuary between performances, where she could rest and tend to her extensive gardens.

Photo: Nest Seekers

The historic mansion has undergone significant restoration work to preserve its heritage features while incorporating modern amenities for contemporary living.

“Villa Beau-Chêne is a piece of French art de vivre,” Patricia Mehl, managing director of Côte d’Azur, Nest Seekers International, said, who holds the listing.

“Every detail, from the gold-leaf mouldings to the sweeping oak staircase, has been lovingly restored to honour its heritage, while modern amenities elevate the experience to meet the expectations of today’s most discerning buyers.”

Photo: Nest Seekers

The property features a traditional layout with intricate architectural details throughout, including decorative mouldings, parquet floors, and oversized windows that flood the interior with natural light.

Visitors enter through a distinctive purple door that opens to a hallway adorned with colourful tiles, contrasting with the mellow oak staircase that serves as a focal point of the entrance.

The ground floor houses four reception rooms that overlook the lush gardens.

Photo: Nest Seekers

The formal dining room showcases exquisite gold leaf mouldings and a marble fireplace, while a separate breakfast area features a coffered ceiling.

The kitchen combines functionality with elegance, featuring two sinks, integrated appliances, and custom cabinetry designed for both everyday use and entertaining.

The bedroom accommodations are spread across multiple levels, with a living area and three bedrooms on the second floor and additional bedrooms on the third floor.

Photo: Nest Seekers

An attic room at the top of the house offers panoramic views over the expansive grounds.

The property also includes a finished basement level with a self-contained guest apartment complete with its own fitted kitchen and living area.

Additional basement features include a large wine cellar and a workshop space.

Photo: Nest Seekers

The grounds surrounding Villa Beau-Chêne contribute significantly to its appeal, with landscaped gardens that Baker herself once tended during her residence at the property.

The mansion’s location in Le Vésinet, a prestigious suburb known for its architectural heritage and green spaces, provides a tranquil setting while remaining accessible to the cultural and commercial offerings of central Paris.

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Rowan Crosby

Rowan Crosby is a senior journalist at Elite Agent specialising in finance and real estate.