Classic film legend Audrey Hepburn may be synonymous with Hollywood, but when it comes to her property portfolio, her legacy lives on in Tolochenaz, Switzerland. Named La Paisible (meaning 'the peaceful' in French), the historic home near Lake Geneva served as the actress's home for more than 30 years before she died there in 1993.
The 18th-century villa is an architectural jewel, described by listing agents Knight Frank as 'an outstanding residence is a rarity among exceptional properties.' It holds a grade 2 listing, meaning it's culturally significant for its design and history – while, inside, the interiors master a European cottage aesthetic.
The main building received a full renovation in 2001, but remnants of Hepburn's spirit live on through the garden, where her white rose bush (given to her by the fashion house Givenchy) still grows today.
Beyond the home's façade, featuring curved roof tiles, climbing ivy, and light blue shutters, the interior design is just as charming. The living room, for example, boasts dusty-green painted wood panels, a wood-burning fireplace, a woven carpet, and parquet wood floors to keep the space warm throughout the cold Swiss winters.
Reportedly, Hepburn, whose grave is in a cemetery nearby, decorated her living spaces with a grand piano and framed photos of herself with famous friends like Fred Astaire and Frank Sinatra. She was also fond of artworks by the French painter Balthus.
The magenta and burnt orange-toned library offers another place to unwind, surrounded by terra-cotta tiles and custom white bookshelves that feel bespoke yet personal. It acts as a reminder that the best storage ideas can also be the most beautiful, and books make the most unique decor.
Shop the look
This flatweave rug is made of 100% polyester in the style of an old-world Persian rug. Available in several sizes for convenient use in any living room or library.
The Perennial Buffet Lamp, meticulously shaped from solid wood and completed with a rustic-chic finish, features faux drip wax details on the candle sleeve. With this lamp, a laid-back coastal style meets monochromatic luxury.
Pink corduroy throw pillows are perfect for adding a whimsical touch to any colored sofa – but they look especially gorgeous on a light blue sofa like the one in Hepburn's home.
The eat-in kitchen is perhaps the most modern space in the villa. It exhibits rich blue cabinets with distinctly chunky silver handles and a quietly luxurious marble-topped island with plentiful counter seating.
In total, the home features 21 rooms, including 12 bedrooms with a beautiful principal suite and eight bathrooms – perfect for optimal family comfort or anyone who loves to host. In her bedroom, Hepburn was said to keep cream-wicker side tables and had a white-and-blue floral canopy bed. Its ideal southeast orientation ensures abundant natural light throughout the day but looks especially stunning in the morning.
Outside, the estate boasts a magnificent park (of over 16,000 sqm) adorned with century-old trees, a heated pool, and space for al-fresco dining. There are also two indoor garages and outdoor parking for approximately 15 cars.
Alex Koch de Gooreynd, an agent at Knight Frank, currently holds the listing.
