The Unsolicited Bachelorette Mansion Makeover by Yours Truly
For over 10 years, dozens of Bachelors and Bachelorettes have walked through the doors of Villa de la Vina, a 500-square-foot six-bedroom, nine-bath home nestled in the Malibu mountains. The custom home, built in 2005, boasts a Spanish revival style with quite the array of finishes, ranging from Moroccan tiles to Indian archways.
For years, the mansion has served its purpose as a place where a cast of hopefuls go to find love. But as we near the finale of The Bachelorette's 12th season, we can't help but get the decorating itch for this castle-like manse, which reads more gaudy than sophisticated and modern. So what would our revisited Bachelor mansion look like? From classic driveways to an updated kitchen and a brighter color palette, we've reinvented the famous home, if only to appease our discerning eye. Take the tour of our very own imaginary Bachelor mansion and tell us, which one do you prefer?
One thing's for sure: The Bachelor mansion needs a dramatic driveway. It's even reportedly watered down for the parade of limousines that trickle down past the Bachelor or Bachelorette each season. But what if it were less "hacienda castle" and more minimalistic chic?
For the modern Bachelorette, we envision a tasteful black-and-white mansion with a large driveway sprinkled with classic topiaries. It's chic but of-the-moment.
The living room (which is painted a deep purple in the show) is where most rose ceremonies are held. We understand the need for removable furniture, but can we make it a little more multifunctional and less "Mansions 'R' Us blowout sale"?
How about a beautifully layered living room, like this one designed by Steven Gambrel, which would give potential Bachelors plenty of room to hang around. It's elegant but low-maintenance, and the ottomans and stools can easily be moved around come elimination time.
We can't remember the last time brown cabinets and yellow walls were a thing, but we're dying to lighten things up a little in the Bachelor mansion's kitchen.
What we have in mind is brighter, with minimalistic cabinetry, an oversized waterfall Carrara marble countertop, and plenty of room for sitting.
Is this the dining room of the Bachelor mansion or Count Dracula? How about fewer castle-esque elements and more chic modern seating?
There's a lot of contestants in the Bachelor mansion, and this calls for multiple seating arrangements. We're thinking this dining room by Steven Gambrel is pretty perfect.
Between the tiles, the rug, the moldings, and the fireplace, there's a lot going on in this family room. We would love to freshen things up a bit.
Imagine an all-white room complete with plenty of seating and a showstopping chandelier. Now that room might make us apply for next season!
Even though bedrooms are seldom featured on The Bachelorette, they do exist—and we think they need a little upgrade.
We're picturing chic hotel-like modern bedrooms with killer views. Now this sets the tone for romance.
In theory, we understand the romantic appeal of a fireplace next to a soaking tub, but in practice, we'd want something a little more practical for a large group of single men.
Think lots of countertop space, an oversize shower, and, yes, a bathtub for good measure.
If the Bachelor mansion has one strong suit, it's its exterior appeal. From the multiple terraces to the breathtaking views, we must hand it to the scouting team for having set up the perfect pool party venue, a space that makes it easy to sneak away from prying eyes.
We only wish it involves a little less orange upholstery and a little more white linen, rattan, and hammocks. Don't you agree?
Wow, now that's a pool—complete with killer views to boot. The Bachelor mansion is pretty unbeatable in the pool department, but we also wouldn't mind a set-up like the one below.
Teak decks, turquoise waters, and lots of greenery make this piece of paradise inviting and ready for entertaining a large crowd.
What would you want to see in the reimagined Bachelor mansion? Give us your wish list.