The former Los Feliz home of film director James Whale, known for directing classic horror films including Frankenstein (1931), The Old Dark House (1932), The Invisible Man (1933) and The Bride of Frankenstein (1935), has just been listed on the market for $7.245M. Designed by Henry Harwood Hewitt in 1927, Villa Collina has undergone extraordinary refurbishments to enhance the property’s charm and elegance.
Before the home was purchased by Whale, Villa Collina was originally built for Clement E. Smoot, an American golfer who competed in the 1904 Summer Olympics in which the American team won the gold medal. The architect, Hewitt is known for designing several staple properties across Los Angeles, including poet Alice Lynch’s former home and the Westlake Masonic Temple in Los Angeles in 1914.
This one-of-a-kind Old World Tuscan chateau sits atop an expansive flat hilltop lot in prime Los Feliz; with views of the Griffith Observatory and the wooded hills on one side, and the downtown skyline on the other.
A turreted formal entry leads to extraordinary open dining and living rooms with original handmade tiles, fireplace, and multiple French doors opening to a massive extended viewing terrace anchored by a stunning gazebo overlooking the sparkling city lights. Within the same space, an entertainer’s kitchen with brand-new Sub-Zero appliances is accented by a built-in breakfast nook and French doors.
The upstairs level includes a storybook primary suite with sitting room and gorgeous updated deluxe blanc bath; Ascend the tower room at the end of the long arched hallway for a private office or den.
Outside, a fully tiled Roman swimmers pool, spacious flat grassy yards, separate spa and fountains and a deck with sauna complete the stunning residence. Lower lot trails meander across the almost half-acre property with gardens, hardscape and fountains.
Photography by Charmaine David.
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