When Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi purchased their historic Cotswold farmhouse in early 2024, the property required extensive renovation.
Over the course of four and a half months, the estate was transformed, combining traditional architectural features with contemporary design elements.
However, less than a year after moving in, the couple listed the property for sale, citing evolving practical needs.
Logistics of a lightning-fast renovation
In spring 2024, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi acquired Kitesbridge Farm, a 43-acre estate in the Cotswolds, for roughly £15 million.
The property’s main house dated to the 1700s and was described by the listing agent as “quite tired, with a quite basic finish.” Although contractors initially estimated a 12- to 18-month renovation period, the couple’s team of approximately 70 workers completed the restoration in just 4.5 months.
During this period, the renovation focused on preserving the estate’s historic features, such as exposed stone walls and beamed ceilings, while introducing modern touches, including glass connectors that linked various buildings on the property.
The couple also extended the property after facing a planning inquiry from the council after locals complained about the work done to the home, but this was later approved.
On Instagram, Ellen shared glimpses of the project, noting the effort to create a light-filled, functional home that respects the property’s architectural heritage.
Design elements and functional features
The renovated estate totals approximately 16,600 square feet, with a six-bedroom main residence arranged around a central courtyard.
Interiors incorporate a mixture of period details alongside contemporary finishes, with spaces designed for both privacy and social gatherings. Additional structures include a two-bedroom guest cottage, a party barn with an integrated pub, and a wellness suite featuring a heated pool and gym.
The grounds were landscaped to complement the home’s architecture, incorporating outdoor living areas and a kitchen garden.
Reasons behind the sale
Despite the comprehensive renovation and careful design, Ellen and Portia decided to list Kitesbridge Farm for around £22.5 million less than a year after moving in.
Ellen confirmed that the main reason was to better accommodate Portia’s horses. She told The Wall Street Journal: “When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldn’t live without her horses. We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them.”
The couple showed their affinity for animals after their 'Sheepocalypse' mishap where the couple attempted to get their sheep to maintain their lawns.
Following this, the couple has now reportedly relocated to a nearby property with more suitable facilities for their animals.
