Location: Los Angeles, California Price: $5.995 million Even in star-studded Los Angeles, this home is quite a celebrity. “Vanity Fair likes it,” said the homeowner, Cynthia, who asked to be identified by her first name only. “There’s a great Town & Country spread.” Situated on a quiet corner in Hancock Park, the French Provincial-style home has been the setting of many high-profile photo shoots. Legendary fashion photographer Mario Testino shot Jessica Simpson on the property; Mad Men-star John Hamm was photographed in the bathtub — next to a quizzical bulldog holding a loofah. Andie MacDowell also struck a pose there, among other notable names. “I’m kind of a stage mom,” Cynthia said with a laugh. She’ll miss her photogenic property but, at least, she added, “When I live elsewhere I’ll still be able to see beautiful images of the house.” The Basics The 5,004-square-foot house has five bedrooms and 5½ baths. The property includes a separate guest suite perched above the detached garage. Design Pedigree Renowned architect Stiles O. Clements designed the home, which was built in 1939. Clements designed a number of lavish theaters in the city, including the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood and the Wiltern Theatre on Wilshire Boulevard. Cynthia fell in love with the three-story home about 10 years ago, after moving to Hancock Park from Chicago. At the time, she and her family were renting a home in the neighborhood. “I always walked by this house,” she said. Drawn to the home’s architectural integrity, which was carefully maintained by its former owners, Cynthia and her husband made an offer on the house the day it hit the market. The property came with a collection of artifacts, including paper drawings and customs receipts for items used in the home’s construction. “The garage was built for $234,” she said. Many of the home’s original details were maintained, including the staircase, parquet floors, wainscoting and two of the fireplaces. “It’s really kind of a treasure trove.” A Not-So-Secret Garden Fashion editors and photographers are drawn to the formal parterre garden, which includes a fountain from the original construction. There’s also a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, sitting and dining areas. “We have a long dining table out there,” Cynthia said. “It’s been the scene of many a long dinner party.” Notable Names The home was previously owned by Mark Werts, CEO of the clothing label American Rag. Prior to that, it was owned by Emmy award-winning actress Sela Ward. Neighborhood Notes Developed in the 1920s, Hancock Park is known for its collection of traditional and historical houses. “There are a lot of beautiful homes [here],” said listing agent RL Morgan of Sotheby’s International Realty. “But this is the closest thing you’re going to get to Provincial French without going to France.” The neighborhood is a short drive from the restaurants on La Brea Avenue and the boutiques on Melrose. Agent: RL Morgan of Sotheby’s International RealtyView the full listing.
Write to Gina Faridniya at gina.faridniya@dowjones.com Follow Mansion Global: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram