I am always interested in significant real estate sales in every part of the world so when I found out about the sale of the house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s son, known as one of the most significant architectural estates in Los Angeles, I needed to find out more.
The Samuel-Novarro House has always been a beacon for enthusiasts who appreciate art, architecture and history. Originally designed by Wright’s son, Lloyd Wright, the unique home was built in 1928 for silent film star Ramon Novarro’s assistant and companion Louis Samuel.
Over the years, the Mayan-esque, copper-accented residence has been owned by a very impressive list of celebrities, including composer Leonard Bernstein, actresses Christina Ricci and most recently, Diane Keaton, who meticulously restored the property while living there. Keaton’s main concern in her restoration project was to keep the architect’s original vision intact. Keaton purchased the home in 2006 for $2.8M and recently sold the significant property for $3.8M after putting it on and off the market for years.
Its celebrity past along with the fact that the four-bedroom home sits in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Los Angeles, The Oaks, make this property a true one-of-a-kind. Featuring the perfect indoor and outdoor flow, the home’s professionally landscaped gardens and terraces dramatically exemplify the Southern California lifestyle. The polished concrete floors and stark white walls that the senior Wright is known for along with other details has lead many to consider this property as a lighter counterpart to
Lloyd Wright’s Sowden House.
Back in 2011, when Diane Keaton owned the property, she told the New York Times that it was not easy to live in a Lloyd Write House. According to the actress, although they are beautiful, they have very, very small bedrooms. She went on to explain that it was a great pleasure to live there, which she did enjoy.
If you’re inspired by properties like the Samuel-Novarro House and are looking for a home in
Napa Valley that combines history, design, and natural beauty, visit my
comprehensive website. I would love to help you find the perfect property. Call me at 415.516.3939 or email me at
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Header Photo Source: homeaway.com
