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Traveling in Our Fabulous World: Stefan Heming and His Liberace Estate in Palm Springs Click here to see the Purple Roofs Palm Springs Section Want to get married in Palm Springs | Looking for Real Estate in Palm Springs?
We have been many times and for us, it keeps getting better all the time. One gentleman in particular that we have met and become friends with is Stefan Hemming, owner of the Liberace Estate. In 1966 Liberace purchased property in Palm Springs called “The Cloisters”. Like his other homes that he purchased in West Hollywood, Las Vegas and Malibu, the pianist redecorated it in the true “Liberace Style”. Two guest bedrooms were fit for a King (or Queen). These were called the Valentino Room and the Marie Antoinette Room. A Jacuzzi sat in the center of a room of mirrors which covered both walls and ceiling. Though not used these days, the Jacuzzi and mirror room remain essentially the same as he left them. From the formal living room, a staircase leads up to a small library. It’s a surprise, though, as one bookcase swings out to reveal a half bath. It is a mystery bathroom. The Master bedroom is the size of most estate’s living room!
Liberace died in 1987 and was mourned all over the world. Stefan Hemming, a successful San Francisco real estate investor, purchased the property in 1990. Stefan refurnished the home, keeping in mind the stylish spirit of the home. If you didn’t know differently, you’d guess that the furnishings was original!
There were actually two houses in the Liberace compound that stretched along a full block. One was for his Mother. Liberace parked his expensive automobiles at that house and walked through an adjoining gate and into his own expansive mansion. Over the years Liberace entertained numerous friends, including major celebrities from Movies, TV and the music industry.
On February 4, 1987 the world lost the person that Milton Berle called “one of the greatest entertainers he ever saw. It’s been said often before but it’s still true: we’ll never see anyone like him again. One should never aspire to be just like someone else and the new owner, Stefan Hemming is his own person. Of all the people that we have met in our travels from coast to coast these past many years, Stefan is one of the most fabulous ones that we have met. He is extremely intelligent, witty and has a wonder sense of humor. Just sit down and listen to the stories and tales he can tell at Casa de Liberace. Casa de Liberace is located at 501 North Belardo Road in Palm Springs. Actually we truly believe that is should now be called “Casa de Stefan Hemming”! Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone!
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Just about a two hour drive from east of West Hollywood is the wonderful world of Palm Springs and gays from around the country have been going there for years to party and have fun.
One of our favorite rooms is the Dining room which seats over 24! The Master bathroom features a commode made from an actual King’s throne. The original garage became another large living room. This was to be the room where Liberace lived during his final days.
Expensive ornate Baccarat crystal chandeliers are all over the house. There are two, yes TWO Grand pianos, the original custom wallpaper remains on many of the walls. A garden fountain still works fine.
“The Cloisters” was the original name of the house. Liberace renamed it “Casa de Liberace.” Both names remain today on the front entrance of the house. It has been featured several times in different publications.
TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS WORLD is written by Donald Pile and Ray Williams, Award-winning Celebrity travel columnists who write for gay publications from Coast to Coast. You can email them at: