Historic home of one of Carmel’s leading architects for sale. Sweeping ocean views offered
Sitting on a hill with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, a Carmel home that renowned architect Guy O. Koepp built as his personal residence in 1935 has hit the market for $4.45 million.
Koepp’s style influenced much of the charming Northern California town’s architecture in the late 1920s and 1930s. His most significant work is the La Rambla building, which he designed in 1929 for Carmel resident Josephine Baber. La Rambla, today a mix of retail spaces and apartments, is known for its courtyard and location near Ocean Avenue.
Jennifer Nazareno and Sterling Malish, who now own the Koepp house, bought the home in 2023 for $3.935 million, according to public records, and enhanced the property by turning a hill of dirt and wildflowers into a beautifully landscaped and terraced backyard that is ideal for entertaining.
“When we first saw the backyard, it was nothing more than a mountain of dirt — but we saw limitless potential,” the sellers said in an email. “After the renovation, it became an incredible outdoor sanctuary, perfect for everything from cozy movie nights with our daughters to lively birthday celebrations and large family gatherings.”
They created a seamless flow between the kitchen, deck and backyard.
The Spanish-style house unfolds across 2,755 square feet with four bedrooms and four full bathrooms.
Listing agent Mark Peterson of Compass said the location of the home is notable, both for its orientation and the little-known neighborhood where it lies.
“The Carmel Woods area of Carmel is often overlooked as people don’t even know it exists,” Peterson said in a statement. “But just above the Village of Carmel-by-the-Sea is this gently sloping southwest exposed area of homes. The climate is ideal as it basks in a little more sunshine and is protected from the prevailing northwest winds. Views of the iconic Point Lobos are found in these homes.”
Hidden neighborhood
Koepp purchased one of the earliest lots for sale in Carmel and knew what he was looking for, Peterson said.
“This home is positioned perfectly to maximize daylight and warm sun exposure,” the listing agent added. “It has views of Carmel Bay, Point Lobos and over the Del Monte Forest of Pebble Beach. The character and tasteful updates over time complement the original home. This is an authentic California Spanish Revival home.”
Inside, the chef’s kitchen contains La Cornue range, Brazilian granite countertops and custom cabinetry. Original refinished hardwood floors run through the interior living space, complemented by Turkish limestone in the bathrooms and lower level. Custom Spanish tiles adorn the risers on the stairs going up to the second level”
Outside, the re-imagined backyard became a relaxing retreat that connects multiple seating areas and outdoor spaces. A separate guest house was once a Spanish carriage home and boasts its own spectacular ocean views.
“A rare gem in Carmel, this estate captures the essence of coastal luxury with history, elegance, and panoramic ocean vistas at every turn,” the property listing states. The home is located at 24410 S San Luis Ave.
The sellers — Nazareno is a public health academic and Malish is a physician — decided to sell because they are relocating, according to a representative for Compass real estate firm.
This story was originally published March 17, 2025 at 4:21 PM.
