The glorious Spanish Revival mansions built in Los Angeles in the 1920s and ’30s have become an endangered species. Many of these colorful old Hollywood classics have been razed to make way for shiny white spec homes.
This stellar estate in Holmby Hills—owned by actor Vincent Price from 1955-1974—is one of the lucky survivors. Thoughtful owners have restored its classic features, while seamlessly weaving in the conveniences of modern-day living.
The result is “jaw-dropping,” according to Joyce Rey, who is co-listing the property with Timothy Di Prizito, both of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury
Not only is the property legendary, but it could be considered something of a steal compared to other mansions nearby. It’s just a few blocks away from the Aaron Spelling Manor, which recently sold for $119.75 million.
Step through the ornate, oversized front door into the two-story cathedral entry hall, and you know you’re in “a pretty spectacular house,” says Rey. She’s worked with countless luxury homes in the Los Angeles market, and is still astounded by the scope and feel of this one.
Built in 1927 at the height of the craze for Spanish Revival elegance, the home has no end of vintage features, many of which have been meticulously restored: leaded glass windows, a Juliet balcony, handcrafted wrought-iron detailing, barrel-vaulted ceilings with timber beams, solid wood plank and tile floors, arched doorways, and oversized French doors. As a result, the property retains its original charm and grandeur.
The kitchen is a prime example of how the old blends with the new without sacrificing architectural integrity. Rey told us you can get a little peek at how the cooking space used to look in the recently reprinted cookbook, “Cooking Price-wise,” written by the late actor, who, it turns out, was also a serious chef.
Today, the kitchen still has grand arched windows and alcoves. It even has a built-in wooden hutch. But it also has a large prep island and top-of-the-line stainless-steel appliances.
There are eight ensuite bedrooms, 9.5 bathrooms, and 11,653 square feet of living space, spread out between the grand main house and a generous guesthouse featuring all the comforts of a private home.
Other spectacular interior features include a living room in the style of a grand ballroom, a library, an art studio, a huge, projection-style theater, an adjacent billiard-room, and a lounge with a bar.
But there’s more to this 1.65-acre estate, including gracious balconies and patios, a sunken tennis court, a children’s play yard, a full basketball court, as well as a pool and spa with a spacious cabana.
The master suite features a barrel-vaulted ceiling, fireplace, sitting area, office, walk-in closet and a spa-style bathroom. The only problem with the spacious room is that you’d never want to leave.
The current owners purchased the place about 15 years ago for $14,950,000, raised their children in the remarkably family-friendly environment, and are now ready to downsize.
The legacy home should have no issue finding new owners. According to Rey, interest is brisk, thanks to the relative rarity of this type of home. As Di Prizito put it, “This former celebrity estate embodies impeccable pedigree and majestic character.” A character like the Hollywood horror legend Price couldn’t have said it any better.