A Piece of Hollywood History Awaits a New Owner
A magnificent estate inspired by the picturesque Cotswolds, once owned by the legendary director of "Casablanca," Michael Curtiz, and acclaimed actor Gene Hackman, is now on the market in Los Angeles for an enticing price of $5.99 million. The property, known as the Canoga Estate, is situated in the tranquil Woodland Hills neighborhood, a hidden gem that was once promoted as the "Bel-Air of the Valley" during the mid-20th century. Listed by Deanna D'Egidio of Harcourts Plus, this nearly century-old residence is enveloped by mature deodar cedars, oaks, and pines, providing an air of privacy and serenity.
Originally constructed in 1928 by developer Harold Ferguson, the estate was the centerpiece of a sprawling 250-acre property that boasted stables and a carriage house. Although the surrounding area has since been subdivided, the main residence still occupies over two acres of pristine land, conveniently located less than a thirty-minute drive from the bustling Studio City and the sun-kissed beaches of Malibu.
Architectural Charm and Timeless Elegance
The Canoga Estate's ownership history is a fascinating tale that reflects the glamour of 20th-century Hollywood. Following Ferguson's tenure, the home was acquired by Michael Curtiz, the Oscar-winning filmmaker known for his iconic films such as "White Christmas" and "The Adventures of Robin Hood." Historical blueprints from 1935, which bear Curtiz's name, confirm the modifications made during his stewardship. D'Egidio notes that Curtiz likely fell in love with the estate's expansive scale and secluded ambiance, as it was located near other industry luminaries, including Jack Warner of Warner Bros. fame.
Subsequent notable owners included Gene Hackman, who possessed the estate during the early 1970s. However, the allure of this residence transcends its celebrity connections; it holds significant architectural merit, having been featured in the 1930 edition of Architectural Digest, a testament to its exquisite design. Inside, the estate showcases remarkable preservation of original features, including vaulted wood-beamed ceilings, leaded-glass windows, and hand-painted bathroom tiles, all of which evoke a charming, storybook cottage atmosphere.
Spanning over 4,847 square feet, the main residence comprises five bedrooms, five full bathrooms, and two powder rooms. In addition to the primary living space, the estate features a guest house with two full bathrooms that also serve the pool and dressing areas, along with a separate recreation room. The grounds are adorned with over 160 meticulously maintained rose bushes, winding pathways, a koi pond, a tennis court, and a luxurious pool complex, all contributing to a resort-like feel.
As D'Egidio describes, the community is characterized by its forest-like ambiance, with towering cedar, pine, and oak trees creating a serene environment that feels almost untouched by time. Previous owners, like television producer Sandy Stewart—whose family was behind popular game shows such as "The Price Is Right"—were captivated by the neighborhood's charm, often discovering it by chance and quickly falling under its spell.
In addition, the estate's former carriage house, which was sold separately in the 1950s, carries its own Hollywood history, previously owned by Jodie Foster before its 2020 sale for $1.93 million. The interiors of the main residence have been thoughtfully decorated to enhance its historical architecture, with a focus on European vintage glamour, antique furnishings, and custom textiles that pay homage to its storied past. In an age where many historic homes are stripped of their character, the preservation of the Canoga Estate stands as a compelling asset, appealing to buyers who are increasingly seeking authentic properties rich in history and craftsmanship.
As reported by aol.com.
