Celebrity Home with Historic Value
Hollywood actress Lily Collins has finalized the sale of her Pasadena Case Study House in an off-market deal that closed for nearly $6.2 million. The transaction not only surpassed the $6 million asking price but also nearly doubled the $3.9 million she paid fellow actress Kristen Wiig in 2021. This remarkable profit underlines the enduring demand for architecturally significant homes in California real estate.
Architectural Landmark Restored
The property, known as Case Study House #10, was originally designed in 1947 by architects Kemper Nomland and Kemper Nomland Jr. as part of the famed Case Study program. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the redwood-sided residence is a true mid-century modern landmark.
Collins, in collaboration with designer Emily Farnham, completed a careful renovation that balanced history with contemporary living. Restored concrete floors, minimalist lines, and warm interiors were paired with Scandinavian-inspired design elements. Large sliding doors open to outdoor terraces, creating seamless indoor-outdoor spaces that define California modernism.
Design and Lifestyle Features
The home covers approximately 3,400 square feet with three bedrooms and three bathrooms across three levels. The primary suite features a marble bathroom with dual vanities and a walk-in shower, while the living and dining area is divided by a dramatic brick fireplace. A detached guesthouse with an additional bedroom and bath offers privacy for visitors.
The landscaped backyard includes a pool, spa, and a series of patios surrounded by a garden inspired by Dutch designer Piet Oudolf. The result is a serene environment that blends architecture with nature.
Prime Pasadena Location
Set on a gated hillside parcel of one-third acre, the home sits in one of Pasadena’s most desirable neighborhoods. The area is home to cultural icons such as Meryl Streep and Oscar De La Hoya, and offers proximity to renowned attractions like the Norton Simon Museum and The Huntington Library. With tree-lined streets, upscale shopping, and fine dining, Pasadena continues to shine as a hub of Southern California luxury living.
A Strong Real Estate Portfolio
This sale adds to Collins’s impressive record in the luxury market. She previously owned a John Elgin Woolf-designed estate in Beverly Hills, which she sold at a profit, and together with her husband, filmmaker Charlie McDowell, she also owns residences in Copenhagen. Her Pasadena success story demonstrates how celebrity-backed properties continue to thrive in competitive markets.
Market Outlook
The listing was managed by Ted Clark and Heather Lillard of Compass, with William Baker of The Agency representing the buyer. The above-ask sale price underscores the strength of Pasadena real estate, where mid-century modern homes remain some of the most sought-after properties in California.