Mary Allen
Introduction: The Sandpiper House
The Sandpiper is a 1965 American film that starred Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. It tells the story of a free-spirited artist who falls in love with a married Episcopal priest. The film was directed by Vincente Minnelli and was shot entirely on location in California. One of the most notable locations used in the film is the house where Elizabeth Taylor’s character, Laura, lived with her children.
The Plot of The Sandpiper
The Sandpiper is a romantic drama that centers around the love affair between Laura, a single mother, and Dr. Edward Hewitt, a married Episcopal priest. The two meet when Laura’s son is caught skipping school and is sent to Dr. Hewitt’s school for troubled boys. Despite their different lifestyles, the two fall in love and must navigate the challenges of their forbidden relationship. The film deals with themes of morality, infidelity, and the conflict between personal happiness and societal expectations.
The House’s Location
The Sandpiper house is located in Big Sur, California, and is perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is situated on a 25-acre parcel of land that was once owned by Orson Welles. The house has a secluded feel, with no other houses visible from the property. The location was chosen in part for its stunning views, which are prominently featured in the film.
The House’s Architecture
The Sandpiper house was designed by architect Frank Wynkoop in 1957. It is a two-story structure that is built into the side of a hill. The exterior of the house is finished with redwood siding and features a flat roof and large windows that provide sweeping views of the ocean. The design reflects the mid-century modern style that was popular in California at the time.
Interior Design of the Sandpiper House
The interior of the Sandpiper house features an open floor plan with high ceilings and exposed beams. The living room is the centerpiece of the house and features a large fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide unobstructed views of the ocean. The decor is simple and understated, with neutral colors and natural materials like wood and stone.
The House’s History
The Sandpiper house has a storied history and has been owned by several notable individuals over the years. It was originally built for actor Richard Carlson and his wife, Arlene. After they divorced, the house was sold to Orson Welles, who used it as a writing retreat. Welles later sold the property to Elizabeth Taylor and her then-husband, Eddie Fisher, who used it as a vacation home. The house has since changed hands several times and is currently privately owned.
How the House was Chosen
The Sandpiper house was chosen for its stunning location and unique architecture. The filmmakers were looking for a house that would reflect the bohemian lifestyle of the character of Laura and would provide a striking contrast to the more traditional setting of Dr. Hewitt’s church. The house’s location in Big Sur also fit with the film’s theme of escaping from societal norms and finding freedom in nature.
Filming Inside the House
Filming inside the Sandpiper house presented some challenges for the filmmakers. The house’s open floor plan required careful blocking of the actors and the large windows presented lighting issues. However, the stunning views and unique architecture made for some memorable shots, including a famous scene in which Elizabeth Taylor dances in the living room.
Filming Outside the House
The Sandpiper house is featured prominently in the film’s exterior shots. The house’s unique location on a cliff overlooking the ocean provided some stunning visuals, including shots of the waves crashing against the rocks below. The filmmakers also used the house’s surrounding landscape to create a sense of isolation and seclusion.
The House in Popular Culture
The Sandpiper house has become something of a pop culture icon, thanks in part to its prominent role in the film. It has been featured in several magazines and design blogs and has been the subject of numerous paintings and photographs. The house’s unique architecture and stunning location have made it a favorite of architects and design enthusiasts.
Is the House Available for Visitors?
The Sandpiper house is currently privately owned and is not open to the public. However, visitors can drive by the property and admire the stunning views from the road. The house’s location in Big Sur also provides ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Sandpiper House
The Sandpiper house is one of the most iconic locations in film history. Its stunning location and unique architecture have made it a favorite of design enthusiasts and film buffs alike. Despite its private ownership, the house’s enduring legacy is a testament to the power of film to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.