An estate in Los Angeles boasting a putting green, a bowling alley, and a roster of past inhabitants resembling a Hollywood hall of fame, is now priced at $19.995 million following a recent $3 million markdown. This gated compound, crafted by Paul Williams, was erected in 1941 for Bert Lahr, renowned for his portrayal of the Cowardly Lion in the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz.”
The pool and spa.
Over the years, actress Betty Grable, musician Harry James, Paul McCartney, Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith, as well as Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, have all reportedly resided at the residence.
The media room has a wet bar.
“When a property boasts such a rich Hollywood history, it truly becomes part of its enduring legacy,” remarked Aaron Kirman, who, along with colleagues Kirby Gillon and Bryce Lowe, represents the listing at AKG Christie’s International Real Estate.
The gated estate, designed by Paul Williams, was built in 1941 for Bert Lahr.
Many of these notable figures leased the property from Guy Attal, owner and head of the fashion label Fabrizio Gianni. Records indicate Attal acquired the 15,505-square-foot estate for $2.55 million in 1999. He could not be reached for comment.
The bowling alley is housed next to the tennis court.
After years of being a landlord, during which the property fetched anywhere from $120,000 to $300,000 per month, Attal is now prepared to part ways with the residence. According to listing records, he initially listed it for $22.995 million in June.
There is period charm throughout the home, which can rent for between $120,000 and $300,000 per month.
“The decision to let go of the house has been quite emotional for him; he has a deep affection for it,” Kirman stated. “Today, he’s ready to move on, which is why he’s agreed to reduce the price.”
The main house, boasting seven bedrooms, is equipped with various features such as a spacious living area with vaulted ceilings, a media room complete with a wet bar, a wine cellar, two staff rooms, and two primary bedroom suites.
In the decades since, actress Betty Grable; musician Harry James; Paul McCartney; Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith; and Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, have all reportedly called the property …
Outside, a plethora of amenities awaits, including an outdoor kitchen, pool and spa, tennis court, koi pond, sports court, and putting green. Adjacent to the tennis court sits a building housing the games room and a vintage-inspired two-lane bowling alley. Additionally, there’s a separate guest house with its own private entrance and two bedrooms, as described in the listing.
The main house has seven bedrooms.
The property not only boasts a Hollywood history but also an architectural one.
“The fact that it’s designed by Paul Williams is incredibly significant,” Kirman emphasized. “His legacy is unparalleled, particularly in L.A.” In 1923, Williams became the first African-American member of the American Institute of Architects.
The sports court is surrounded by lush plants.
Moreover, the extensively equipped compound offers “the genuine resort lifestyle rarely found in L.A.,” he continued. “It’s rare to find all of that in one place, and that’s what gives it its unique charm.”