I kept finding incredible properties clustered in a few favorite places—mostly Los Angeles and England—so this round of real estate picks leans into bold color, historic mural work and exquisite wood carving, some elements dating back centuries. Expect dramatic rooms, storybook details and architecture that feels like living inside a fairytale.
I’d love to hear which ones you’d pick.
A 17th Century Mural-Covered Dwelling in Ljusdal, Sweden
Asking Price: $119,482
The mural work in this Swedish home blew me away—paintings from the 17th and 19th centuries that cover walls and built-ins, creating a scene straight out of an old storybook. The decorative painting is so vivid and complete that the rooms almost need no additional decor; they feel like inhabitable art.
You can learn more about this property here. (Found via @cheapoldhouses)
A Colorful 1940s Treehouse in Los Angeles, CA
Asking Price: $2,395,000
This 1940s home perches above the city like a treehouse, full of playful color and moody spaces. Yellow French doors, vaulted ceilings and a dark, dramatic bathroom give it personality and charm—perfect for someone who loves vintage character with a modern, cinematic edge.
You can learn more about this property here.
A 15th Century Timber Framed Townhouse in Suffolk
I always include at least one timber-framed house because they feel utterly timeless. This 15th century townhouse in Suffolk has that gorgeous attic space and all the beams, nooks and historic details that make it feel like a storybook home. If your criteria is “would I feel like I live in a fairytale?” this one checks the box.
You can learn more about this property here.
The Eccentric 19th Century Andrew McNally Estate in Altadena, CA
Asking Price: $3,295,000
This Victorian estate has a turret and preserved 19th century details throughout. Designed in 1887 by Frederick Roehrig, the house features carved woodwork, decorative ceilings and original elements carefully maintained by the family. The aviary and greenhouse are charming extras that emphasize the property’s historic character.
You can learn more about this property here.
A 1930s Castle in Rydal, PA
Asking Price: $485,000
This 1930s castle captured a lot of attention online and, although it sold while I was preparing this post, I had to include it. Grand staircases, dramatic stonework and atmospheric rooms give it a fairy-tale presence. It’s the kind of property that looks like it belongs in a period film.
You can learn more about this property here.
A Restored 16th Century Country House in Norfolk, England
Asking Price: $6,367,725
This is the one I’d move into without hesitation. The current owners restored the 16th century country house with remarkable care—the joinery, ceiling detail, and historic finishes are all handled with attention and respect. The property includes outbuildings and a barn, and every photographed room has memorable details that reward a full gallery view.
You can learn more about this property here.
So tell me— which one is your favorite?
More Houses I Want To Live In…
- Houses I Want To Live In Vol. 1
- Houses I Want To Live In Vol. 2
- Houses I Want To Live In Vol. 3
You can view past selections in the real estate tag on the site.