Mediterranean in Little Holmby comes with an Old Hollywood past
A Little Holmby home where actress and singer Marlene Dietrich once lived is on the market for $5.995 million.
Designed by architect L.G. Scherer in the Mediterranean Revival style, the residence was completed in 1932. Todd Wellington Johnson, the tax attorney for Bing Crosby, among other stars, and his wife were early owners of the house, often hosting large social gatherings on the property.
For the record:
8:28 p.m. May 16, 2019A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the home’s architect was Wallace Neff. The architect was L.G. Scherer.
The home was leased in the late 1930s by actress Dorothy Dunbar following the annulment of her marriage to French artist Tino Costa, her fifth of seven husbands. Dunbar was later sued by the owner for damages done to the property by her cocker spaniel, Duke.
Dietrich occupied the home in the early 1940s, following a trip abroad to entertain Allied troops.
Sitting on half an acre of park-like grounds, the home has been restored while preserving its original elements. Wrought ironwork, hex Saltillo tile, exposed beams and rich wood paneling are among the details.
A soaring cathedral ceiling and a large fireplace and hearth add character to the living room, which has a large pop-out lined with floor-to-ceiling glass. A grand dining room, a wood-clad den, a chef’s kitchen and a screening room with a wet bar also lie within nearly 6,200 square feet of interiors.
The master suite has two walk-in closets and a balcony overlooking the grounds. Another bedroom/office has a separate entrance for a total of four bedrooms and four bathrooms.
A loggia lined with archways opens to various patios and an outdoor dining area topped by mature trees. A swimming pool, a separate spa, an outdoor fireplace, gardens and koi ponds complete the setting.
James Bremner of Gibson International and Larry Young of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties hold the listing.
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