Once the glamorous retreat of Hollywood actor Dennis Morgan and featured in Diane Keaton’s California Romantica, this 1927 Mediterranean Revival estate is a rare glimpse into the early genius of legendary architect Paul R. Williams, FAIA. Featuring a whimsical garden with Tea House, an Olympic-size pool, and a three-story observatory, the 1.2-acre property in La Cañada’s coveted Alta Canyada Estates blends architectural grace with botanical wonder. On the market for the first time in decades, the estate was meticulously restored and offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of California’s architectural and cultural heritage.
About the Architect: Paul R. Williams, FAIA
- First African American member of the American Institute of Architects (1923) and first African American AIA Fellow (1957); awarded AIA Gold Medal posthumously in 2017
- Designed this estate at age 33, one of his earliest grand residential commissions
Known for designing homes for Hollywood legends and shaping Los Angeles’ architectural identity - Blended Mediterranean Revival elegance with innovative design, perfectly captured in this estate
Historical & Cultural Significance
- Originally a 5-acre retreat for attorney James Degnan
- Previously owned by Hollywood actor Dennis Morgan, who entertained Hollywood elite (including swashbuckler Errol Flynn)
- Survived significant subdivision but retains 1.2 acres of meticulously restored original elements
- Featured in Diane Keaton’s book California Romantica beautifully captures the essence of the residence, highlighting its unique architectural elements and ambiance and noted as a “must-see” by architectural historians Gebhard & Winter
- One of the few Paul R. Williams estates of this era still intact
Property Highlights
The residence was built in 1927 for $125,000 and spans over five acres in La Cañada Flintridge. Adjusted for inflation, that would be roughly $2.26M in 2025!
- Grand foyer with bas relief detailing, coffered 20-ft ceilings, and black-and-white marble floors
- Paneled library, music room, and formal dining with stained glass features
- Primary suite with sleeping terrace, dual bathrooms and serene garden views
- Period elements: cast-cement fireplace, stenciled ceilings,and arched French doors
- Light-filled Casita with kitchen and large picture window
- Guest House with three-story observatory, stone fireplace, bar and 2 bedrooms
- Olympic-size pool with expansive flagstone deck
- Whimsical faux bois Tea House crafted by a Japanese artisan in 1929
- Restored Della Robbia ceramic mosaic, fountains, grotto and lion statues
- Meandering paths, heirloom rose garden, cactus garden and century-old Deodar cedars
Photography by Sterling Reed Photography.
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