Franklin Hills Mid-Century Opportunity

An attractive new mid-century home has hit the market in the highly desirable Franklin Hills of Los Feliz. This is the neighborhood I personally live, so know it well, and am definitely a fan of the location for a multitude of reasons. This particular property looks nice with an open floor plan, floor to ceiling walls of glass leading out to the outdoor space, and many original built ins. The listing states that, "A central brick fireplace, wood paneling, cabinetry and other period details are just some of the features that embody the modernist movement of the era." The bedrooms are a bit small, and I wish it had one more bathroom; however, this is a stylish home with great roots that lies on a 7,210 lot which affords the owner future possibilities. There are also multiple patios to relax on and take in the views from the hills. This is a great opportunity to own in a fantastic location.

2000 Mayview, Los Feliz

$799,000 3 Bed 1 Bath 1,111 Sq. Ft. 7,210 Sq. Ft. Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Robert Carey & Katrina Webb - Sotheby's Int'l Realty

If you like mid-century homes and this is your price point, this one could be perfect. There is a finite supply of these style homes, so I wouldn't delay, as I am sure this home will attract significant attention. If you would like to see this property in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Spanish Compound on Huge Lot Near The Beach

Behind private gates on a arguably the best Mar Vista street is this stunning Spanish Compound on a massive park like lot. The size of the lot in this location is extremely rare, and thus represents a great opportunity to own a ton of land just a mile or so to the ocean. This upgraded home with views wraps around the 19,000 sq. ft lot with a soccer field of flat yard space, a sparkling pool and private spa. The 6,000 square foot home itself appears to be nicely upgraded throughout with a 5 bed/5 bath main house and an additional 1 bed/1 bath guest house, each with it's own kitchen. Loads of character and charm in this 1928 Spanish style home with all of today's modern amenities spread out over a sensational parcel of real estate. Imagine all you and your family could do with all of that outdoor space...

3547 Mountain View, Mar Vista

$2,995,000 (Reduced from $3,195,000) 6 Bed 6 Bath 6,013 Sq. Ft. 19,256 Sq. Ft. Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Cynthia Ambuehl - Partners Trust Brentwood

This is a genuine opportunity for a rare piece of property in a very nice location. If you would like to see this stunning property in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Guess? Co-Founder Lists Beverly Hills Mansion for $63M

Armand Marciano, one of the three brothers that co-founded the fashion company Guess? Inc, has just listed his sprawling Beverly Hills, Calif. estate for a lofty $63 million. This puts this home up amongst some of the highest priced real estate available currently in the United States. The recently completed property lies on an extremely rare almost 20 acre view property, 5 of them flat, in the highly desirable 90210 zip code, one of America's wealthiest cities. The home is massive at 30,000 sq ft with 10 bedrooms (7 in the main house and 3 in the guest house) and 22 bathrooms, and although it has all the modern amenities for today's buyer, the home pays homage to it's "timeless European elegance, which include a formal living room, dining room, library, commercial-grade gourmet kitchen, breakfast nook, family room, gym, game room, projection screening room, wine cellar & dining room." The perfectly manicured grounds are all very private with stunning views, mosaic tile pool, fountains, and tennis court. This is a tough property to duplicate due to it's massive size and location, perfect for anyone desiring a one of a kind home in prime Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills

$63,000,000 10 Bed 22 Bath 30,000 Sq. Ft per owner 860,310 Sq. Ft Lot (Nearly 20 Acres)

Listing and Photos courtesy of Joyce Rey - Coldwell Banker & Kurt Rappaport - Westside Estates Agency

This house will be shown to pre-qualified buyer's only, but if you would like to qualify and see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Interesting Design Ideas

While looking through the MLS, I found some interesting pictures and design ideas from various homes currently listed for sale. These are all from high end homes; however, no matter what type of property you live in, you may be able to incorporate a variation of these ideas into your space.

I absolutely love the first shot, as the walls of glass simply disappear and make it seem as if from one's bed they could just hop to one of the skyscrapers off in the distance. Talk about bringing the outside in right.

I have not seen the circle back splash detail in the kitchen before, and like the way it pops against the all white kitchen.

I like the texture of the walls, which really brings the bathroom to life.

A good idea on how to break up a large room, and can put either the bathroom or closet behind the bed area.

If you have a rooftop deck, why not work on your putting stroke while enjoying the views? All pictures courtesy of the MLS

Social Media's New Power and Influence

Image via Design You Trust

Modern Architectural in Laurel Canyon Section of the Hollywood Hills

Off of Laurel Canyon in the hills above Sunset is this modern architectural redo with clean lines and designer finishes. The home is uber sleek with an open floor plan, nice wood flooring, a sleek updated kitchen with carrera marble countertops and top of the line appliances. The chic fireplace with built in flat screen and book ends anchor the stunning open living area. The master bedroom is huge with high ceilings, a sitting area, and luxurious master bath with Phillipe Starck fixtures. Walls of glass throughout the house lead out to an outdoor cabana area, garden, and nice canyon views. In the Wonderland school district with easy access to Hollywood, the Westside, or the Valley, this could be a nice property for the modern enthusiast.

2203 Ridgemont Dr, Hollywood Hills

$1,420,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 2,417 Sq. Ft 7,640 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Thomas O'Rourke - Prudential CA - West Hollywood

If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

1950's Traditional in A Great Los Feliz Location, $735K

This charming 1950's traditional in Los Feliz was just listed today and appears to be a good value in a good location. Lying in the Franklin Hills section of Los Feliz with views of the beautiful Shakespeare Bridge is this sunny 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home. The living room features light hardwood flooring which opens up to the outside and leads you into the kitchen with it's tile work and newer stainless steel appliances. Two bedrooms are upstairs, while there is a third bedroom downstairs, which can be used for a variety of purposes. The listing describes the outside by saying, "Enjoy a wonderful patio with plenty of room for outdoor dining and a hot tub. It is surrounded by beautiful greenery with an incredible selection of cactus &succulents, a fountain, a deck & offers a view of the fabulous Shakespeare bridge." This is a good price for a really desirable location and charming home.

1900 Monon St, Los Feliz

$735,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 1,438 Sq. Ft 6,664 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of George and Eileen Moreno - Re/Max - Tri-City

If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Jason Statham's Hollywood Hills Glass House

One of the several fine homes of movie star Jason Statham (Transporter series, Crank, etc) has just become available. This one is positioned high above the famed Sunset Strip in the Hollywood Hills. The listing describes the home and it's architecture by noting that it's "Reminiscent of the famed Glass House by Phillip Johnson." It is full of clean lines, open space, and walls of glass. Surprisingly, the pictures don't appear as bright as one would think the interior would be in a glass house, but may have just been a gloomy day. The home has three bedrooms, one of which was turned into an office with built-ins. The exterior beckons you outside through the glass walls to the private pool surrounded in nice Jay Griffith designed landscaping. This house would be perfect for the minimalist aficionado.

1522 Rising Glen, Hollywood Hills

$2,749,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 2,281 Sq. Ft / per title 15,100 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Peter Lorimer - Peter Lorimer Group Estates

In a great location, this uber chic celebrity owned home may be exactly what you have been waiting for. If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Mid-Century Modern On Great Studio City Street

I have seen this home previously, as it has floated on and off the market for a year or so, and in fact was listed as high as $2,499,000 in April of 2010. I am not sure it is a $2.5M home; however, at almost $1M less I think it is definitely worth talking about. Lying in a prime view street in the Wrightwood Estates, this designer owned mid-century home has been updated with clean lines and superior finishes throughout. I wish there were more interior shots available, but the living room and kitchen look great, and I love the way the walls of glass disappear and lead out to the stunning pool and views. The backyard looks sublime as one either lounges by the pool, or runs around on the flat grass with endless views of the valley below. At 3,000 sq. ft with easy access to everything in Los Angeles, this one looks like a winner. Just imagine what the price would be if it were on the other side of the hill...double?

10955 Wrightwood Lane, Studio City

$1,699,000 (Reduced from $1,879,000) 4 Bed 3.5 Bath 3,000 Sq. Ft / per owner 9,450 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Stamie Karakasidis and Josh Buxbaum - Rodeo Realty

For a mid-century modern enthusiast with high design tastes, who wants to be in a prime Studio City location, this could be it. Just in time for summer, that pool and stunning views await. If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

The Gogol House, 1939 by Raphael Soriano in Los Feliz

The listing agent does a very good job of describing the house and it's historical relevance, so rather then just piecing it together, I have enclosed the MLS description in full for your review.

"The Gogol House, 1939. Designed by Raphael Soriano in the International Modern Style, has been called "the purest example of Soriano's early work" and "pivotal to the evolution of the modern California house". 3 bed/3ba is thoughtfully arranged throughout three floors. Main floor 2 bed/2ba, kitchen, living-dining area with glass facade leading to a large deck with southern exposure and city views. Top floor loft/office opens to a rooftop terrace. Lower level is comprised of guest bed/bath, media/music room, laundry and storage room. Detached 2 car garage and rear garden. A rare opportunity to own an important residence by an iconic, mid-century modern architect."

2190 Talmadge St, Los Feliz

$1,195,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 2,779 Sq. Ft 5,619 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Crystal Heatherly - Deasy Penner & Partners

This home is in the highly desirable Franklin Hills area of Los Feliz, just a few blocks from the goods and services of the Los Feliz Village. This represents a good opportunity to own a historical "work of art," created by a noteworthy architect. If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com. I am sure that this home will attract a lot of interest given it's location and pedigree, so don't delay if you think it may be the one for you.

Crazy "Statue House" Hits the Market

I am sure you have driven by this house many times on the corner of 3rd st and Muirfield in Hancock Park, and wondered what it could look like on the inside. Well now the property with the 19 David replicas on its front lawn has hit the market and we can get a glimpse into the owner's wild world. While the home is full of carerra marble flooring and lucite furniture (some even hanging from the ceiling), it is much larger then I expected. At 4,832 sq. ft the home has 7 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms on a nice size lot with sparkling pool. Clearly this one is mostly land value, as I suspect the statues and aesthetic will not be desirable to the majority of buyer's looking for a multi-million dollar home. Perhaps a huge Michelangelo fan will swoop this one up.

What do you think, is the price right, and will this one sell?

304 S. Muirfield Road, Hancock Park

$2,400,000 7 Bed 7 Bath 4,832 Sq. Ft 14,514 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and some Photos courtesy of Boris Dorfman - Lending Bee, Inc. Some pictures courtesy of LA Curbed

Most likely I am guessing not, but if you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Hollywood Hills Stylish Mid-Century Home

Stylish Mid-Century home just listed in the Hollywood Hills. This one is in a nice location above booming Hollywood, and features an open loft like floor plan in the main living area with dark hardwood flooring. The recently renovated kitchen features Caesarstone counters, Ann Sachs tiles and appliances by Miele, Viking and Liebherr. Two bedrooms upstairs, and one on the lower level, which is currently configured as an office/media room. It's got a nice mix of vintage elements and modern touches, and is a nice looking home in a good location with a pool just in time for the summer.

What are your thoughts on this home, finishes used, and the price?

6309 Ivarene Ave, Hollywood Hills

$999,000 3 Bed 3 Bath 1,926 Sq. Ft 7,140 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Geoff Clark - Deasy Penner & Partners

If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Modern Architectural in the Franklin Hills of Los Feliz

Lying in a great location high up in the Franklin Hills is this modern updated home with architectural lines and high end finishes throughout. It just hit the market and looks very clean. The home has a wide open floor plan with new custom windows and doors that blur the line between indoors and out. The doors lead out onto large decks perfect for soaking in the views of the city. The kitchen has been redone with updated with appliances fit for a chef, including a new Viking range/stove and Bosch Dishwasher. This is a nice looking property with beautiful finishes in a desirable location.

2312 Lyric Ave, Los Feliz

$999,000 3 Bed 3.5 Bath 2,000 Sq. Ft 3,615 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Jonathan Watters - Foundation Real Estate

If you would like to see this home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Recent Trip to Palm Springs - Riviera Hotel

I recently went down to Palm Springs for the weekend to visit my grandparents. We stayed at the famed Riviera Hotel. After undergoing a huge renovation on this former 60's hot spot, Noble House Hotels & Resorts re-launched this historic property in October 2008. It is a beautiful property in a stunning setting with a nod to the mid-century aesthetics, but with an updated modern twist. As usual, I should have taken more pictures, but managed to snap a few of the Hotel, room, and pool plus a few about town shots.

I was struck by the pictures over the cabanas at the pool from the 1960's, and the fact that besides the fashion, the scene basically is identical to how it was when I was there in 2011. Some things never change, and I suspect lounging at the pool in the sun will still be happening in 2050.

For more information and images you can visit the Hotel Riviera's Website.

Photos by Eric Smilay for Smilay Properties

His Way - Producer Jerry Weintraub Lists $42.5M Malibu Estate

I recently saw the HBO documentary entitled "His Way" about Producer Jerry Weintraub's illustrious career in show business. I think I had heard the name before, but didn't know too much about him before seeing the documentary. I must say I was impressed and inspired by the man's ability to flat out make things happen throughout his almost fifty year professional career. Mr. Weintraub started his own management company in 1964, where he handled huge stars like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra. He went on to manage John Denver's career in 1970. Jerry Weintraub began producing movies in 1975, and ended up producing huge blockbusters including, all of the "Karate Kid" and "Ocean's" Movies, among many others.

Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu

$42,500,000 7 Bed 11 Bath (in main house) 11,180 Sq. Ft 288,807 Sq. Ft Lot (6.63 Acres)

I wish I could find some more interior shots, as the outside ones of the actual house aren't all that impressive, considering the price point. Obviously the extensive grounds is what makes this one special, and after the break you can get a glimpse of this amazing property which spans almost seven flat acres in a prime westside location just south of Paradise Cove. This size compound is huge and extremely rare for beachfront property. It comes with 500 feet of beach frontage!

"Besides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and private beach access, Weintraub’s home includes 7 bedrooms and 11 bathrooms in the main house. There are more sleeping quarters in the two guest houses also on the property. The compound also features a deluxe equestrian center with two stables and large riding ring as well as lighted tennis courts and pool." - Zillow Blog

According to The Real Estalker, Weintraub purchased the property in two pieces: he paid $950,000 in 1978 for a four-acre parcel and $450,500 for the second 2.25-acre parcel in 1980. Sounds like those investments will work out well for Mr. Weintraub. Not as nice as he originally hoped though, as the property was previously listed in 2008 for a whopping $75,000,000. I hope he has better luck this time around with the more realistic price.

I am not worried about this media kingpin though, as Mr. Weintraub also owns several other large and lavish homes including a double lot spread on Doheny Road in Beverly Hills (just down the road from the Ozzy Osbournes), a house in Palm Desert just outside of Palm Springs, and another place in Kennebunkport, Maine. The man is definitely doing it his way in a major way.

Listing and Photos courtesy of Christopher Cortazzo - Coldwell Banker

If you would like to see this one of a kind property in this location in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Love This Clean White 1961 House in Bel-Air

I don't necessarily love all the furniture, but the house is nothing short of amazing. Originally designed by famed architect Richard Dorman, AIA, in 1961, this mid-century home has been updated for any modernist buyer's tastes. The floor plan is wide open with free flowing connectivity of rooms, all based in stunning terrazzo flooring, and surrounded by walls of glass leading out to the stunning pool. The master bedroom has been transformed with a luxurious spa like bathroom, and huge walk in closet. The home is located on prestigious Stone Canyon in Bel-Air and has relaxing views of the Stone Canyon Reservoir. On the market in 2009 for as high as $4,200,000, the listing sums up the current offering nicely by saying, "Finally, an exceptional example of modernist architecture at a realistic price."

1711 Stone Canyon Rd, Bel-Air

$2,895,000 3 Bed 3.5 Bath 2,970 Sq. Ft 13,020 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Billy Rose & Christopher Miller - Prudential CA - Beverly Hills

Of course the home has been updated with modern finishes, but the amazing thing to me when you think about it is that this home was designed and built in 1961, and yet it remains just as beautiful and stunning a home today as it was back then. This is my favorite type of architecture, and represents a great opportunity for a buyer who appreciates a similar aesthetic. If you would like to see this fine home in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

2 Dynamic Mid-Century Modern Homes Listed Above The Sunset Strip

Two redone mid-century homes in the Hollywood Hills above the Sunset Strip with superb finishes were listed this week. They both are almost identically priced, and offer a ton of home in prime locations. The first one is high up Nichols Canyon on Devista, and is a bit more stark and modern with it's white flooring than it's selling competitor. The other is up famed Sunset Plaza Dr and lies on Rising Glen; it is definitely modern and updated, but retains a more warm "homey" feel. They both have nice pools and city views.

See the rest of the first listing and the second home after the break. Which one do you like better? Please comment and let me know as I am interested in hearing your thoughts.

7508 Devista Dr, Hollywood Hills

$2,950,000 4 Bed 4.5 Bath 3,352 Sq. Ft 15,860 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Barry Sloane - Sotheby's Int'l Rlty - BH

1420 Rising Glen, Hollywood Hills

$2,900,000 3 Bed 3.5 Bath 3,850 Sq. Ft 12,000 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing and Photos courtesy of Judy Feder - Nourmand & Associates-BH

Two really nice looking listings that are beyond move in ready and nicely merge style and function. Which one do you like better based on the pictures? If you would like to see either or both of these properties in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Love This Soho Loft; NYC

Anyone that follows this blog knows I am a huge fan of lofts. It is the soaring ceilings, walls of glass, and just wide open space that really does it for me. I don't operate in the Manhattan real estate market, but definitely love the aesthetics of modern lofts in old pre-war buildings. The right mix of modern and vintage character is just special. I saw this one on NY Curbed, and think it looks amazing. So cool in fact that I had to share it with you guys. There are starting to be a few more of these in Los Angeles, especially as Downtown Los Angeles continues to be redeveloped, but doubt many can touch this Soho loft. Curbed describes it as, "It's a 4,500-square-foot 4BR with 15' ceilings and eight cast iron columns." If you are wondering, this third floor loft at 84 Mercer in Soho, will run you a cool $7,000,000.

Listing & Photos Courtesy of Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate (some pictures via Curbed NY)

Well Priced Mid-Century in Beachwood Canyon Still Available

This listing hit the market a bit over a month ago, and is still available. I think it is a good looking opportunity for a cool mid-century post & beam house in highly desirable Beachwood Canyon. The property has an open floor plan surrounded in walls of glass leading out to large decks and unobstructed city and canyon views. Upgraded chef's kitchen with black granite counter tops and newer cabinets opens up nicely to living and dining area, great for entertaining. The listing describes the "Downstairs loft-style master or guest suite has mini kitchen, tile sunken tub bath and sitting room, den or office with sliding glass doors that open to an extra large deck surrounded by serene canyon & city vistas." This property opens up tremendous opportunities to live in as is or further upgrade to your tastes to create a modern showcase.

2844 Lambert Dr, Hollywood Hills

$869,000 3 Bed 2 Bath 2,604 Sq. Ft (per owner) 3,650 Sq. Ft Lot

Listing & Photos courtesy of Rose Ware & Terry Canfield Schmidt - Prudential CA

This is a nice location with a great open floor plan leading out to large decks and stunning views. If you would like to see this property in person, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.

Lafayette Square

I have a client who is currently looking in this small pocket known as Lafayette Square in Mid-City Los Angeles, so have come to learn and appreciate it recently. It is a small community, founded in 1913, and designated by the city of Los Angeles as a HPOZ (Historic Preservation Overlay Zone) because of it's history and architecture. With about 225 homes in the area, one can only access the square by car through one street, St. Charles (off of Crenshaw Blvd.), as the rest of the ends are all gated. This definitely adds to both a community feel and safe neighborhood vibe. The residents in this location take their character original homes seriously, and should one try to change too much of the outside of the house, can be told to put it back by the city. While the outside of the homes retain their original charm and character, some of the homes have been updated inside for more modern conveniences. There are varying types of architecture in the square, but all lie on large lots, and appear quite stately from the street. Even though I definitely lean towards mid-century and modern architecture, I can appreciate the beauty and history that these homes provide.

Read more on the history of Lafayette Square on Wikipedia, including the famous names that have lived in this community over the years.

This was the home, designed for himself, of noteworthy architect Paul Williams.

Pictures by Eric Smilay for Smilay Properties

If you would like to learn more about the properties currently available in this area, please contact us anytime @ 310.600.9172 or email smilayproperties@gmail.com.