Real Estate News

See romantic Euro-style chalet on Lake Tahoe waterfront. Compound is up for bid

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  • Crystal Bay Lake Tahoe compound, 9,877 sq ft, nine bedrooms, listed at $18.25M.
  • Casino family’s estate includes guest cottages on nearly one acre.
  • Auction starts Thursday via Concierge Auctions; property blends European chalet design.

A Crystal Bay compound on the Nevada waterfront of Lake Tahoe blends old-world design, European craftsmanship and modern mountain living.

The estate, listed at $18.25 million, goes to auction on Thursday.

Built in 1952 and planned over 14 years, Legacy Lakeview Estate is a collaboration between architect Brad Puttman and landscape architects Cornell, Bridgers and Troller of Los Angeles, according to Concierge Auctions, which is conducting the sale.

The estate, located at 16 and 20 Cal Neva Drive, is owned by James and Jeffrey Kelley, according to public records provided by property data service SiteXPro. James and Jeffrey Kelley’s father opened the Tahoe Nugget casino in 1962.

“Legacy Lakeview Estate is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a property that captures both the romance of a European chalet and the majesty of Lake Tahoe,” Bob Buttaro, vice president of business development at Concierge, said in a news release.

The Nevada-side property comprises two parcels and four buildings – including the main residence at 20 Cal Neva Drive and three alpine guest cottages at 16 Cal Neva Drive. The estate spans nearly an acre of land with 9,877 square feet of living space, nine bedrooms and 10 full bathrooms.

Set on nearly an acre at 16 and 20 Cal Neva Drive, the estate includes the main residence and three guest cottages – totaling 9,877 square feet, nine bedrooms and 10 full baths.
Set on nearly an acre at 16 and 20 Cal Neva Drive, the estate includes the main residence and three guest cottages – totaling 9,877 square feet, nine bedrooms and 10 full baths. Engel & Völkers Lake Tahoe

Property offers Tahoe privacy

“The quality, privacy and sense of place make this property one of the most-unique offerings in the area,” listing agent Jean Merkelbach of Engel & Völkers said in a statement. “It’s rare to find a property that feels both timeless and completely at home in its surroundings, and we’re thrilled to bring it to the market with Concierge Auctions.”

The main residence opens to panoramas of the Lake Tahoe basin’s iconic blue waters and surrounding mountains. Through a wall of glass, the central living area comes alive with light. The space is framed by wood beams salvaged from California’s first sawmill in Sacramento. A travertine fireplace, antique Tole chandelier and backlit antique stained cabinetry brings European sophistication to the alpine landscape. The home was designed as both grand entertainment setting and tranquil retreat.

Three separate mountain guest cottages complete the compound. Terraced slopes hold indigenous plantings, boulders and tiled walkways, capturing the lake’s beauty every step of the way. The gated entrance and handcrafted rock wall offer privacy and security, according to Concierge.

The light-filled main living area is adorned with wood beams salvaged from Sacramento’s first sawmill, an antique Tole chandelier, and timeless European details.
The light-filled main living area is adorned with wood beams salvaged from Sacramento’s first sawmill, an antique Tole chandelier, and timeless European details. Engel & Völkers Lake Tahoe
Terraced gardens, indigenous plantings and tiled walkways create a seamless connection to the landscape, with views of the lake at every turn.
Terraced gardens, indigenous plantings and tiled walkways create a seamless connection to the landscape, with views of the lake at every turn. Engel & Völkers Lake Tahoe

Crystal Bay is one of Lake Tahoe’s most desired enclaves, sitting on the California-Nevada border, just 45 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport and minutes from private aviation at Truckee Tahoe Airport.

The historic Cal Neva Resort & Casino, once owned by Frank Sinatra, is nearby.

Legacy Lakeview Estate in Crystal Bay features European craftsmanship and sweeping vistas of Lake Tahoe’s blue waters.
Legacy Lakeview Estate in Crystal Bay features European craftsmanship and sweeping vistas of Lake Tahoe’s blue waters. Engel & Völkers Lake Tahoe
Built in 1952, Legacy Lakeview Estate is a collaboration between renowned architects and landscape visionaries – just minutes from the famed Cal Neva Resort & Casino.
Built in 1952, Legacy Lakeview Estate is a collaboration between renowned architects and landscape visionaries – just minutes from the famed Cal Neva Resort & Casino. Engel & Völkers Lake Tahoe
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David Caraccio
The Sacramento Bee
David Caraccio is a video producer for The Sacramento Bee who was born and raised in Sacramento. He is a graduate of San Diego State University and a longtime journalist who has worked for newspapers as a reporter, editor, page designer and digital content producer.
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