Golden Age of Hollywood Actor Katharine Hepburn’s Former L.A. Hideaway is Back on the Market
The storied hacienda-style oasis was also once home to "Frankenstein" actor Boris Karloff.
Tucked behind walls of thick greenery, away from prying eyes, sits a Beverly Hills abode that has been enchanting celebrity buyers since the early years of Hollywood. Katharine Hepburn, one of the original leading ladies, resided at the property for several years when she first moved to Hollywood in the early 1930s. Hepburn then sold the property to Frankenstein actor Boris Karloff, also known as William Henry Pratt, who nurtured and expanded the lush landscape until moving on in the mid-1940s. Over half a century later, the property is still exchanging hands and was recently placed back on the market once again.
Originally built in 1927, the home is surrounded by tropical and native plantings that block much of the view from the street. The privacy enticed previous celebrity residents, including Katharine Hepburn, Boris Karloff, and Eric Burdon of the ‘60s rock band "The Animals."
Photo by Jim Bartsch
The single-story residence is larger than it appears at first glance, with wings that branch out to create nearly 5,000 square feet of living space. Such a design allows extensive natural light to reach nearly every room in the home while providing most spaces with direct access to the property's many patios and the backyard pool. The terra-cotta-tiled roof and white-washed brick facade also creates a charming backdrop for the property's many stone walkways and tropical plantings.
The main entry opens to a large formal living room, complete with classic details such as terra-cotta-tiled floors and exposed beams. Clerestory windows provide direct sunlight while large openings lead into a large family room.
Photo by Jim Bartsch
Inside, exposed timber beams, Spanish mosaic tiles, and antique chandeliers add up to an old-world, lived-in feel for the five-bedroom house. While some finishes have been modernized, much of the structure's original charm remains intact. Keep scrolling to see more of this historic, celebrity-studded property, which is currently listed for $8,995,000.
Around the corner from the living room is the formal dining area, which features French doors leading to a patio. Tucked into a corner is yet another fireplace—one of six inside the home.
Photo by Jim Bartsch
See the full story on Dwell.com: Golden Age of Hollywood Actor Katharine Hepburn’s Former L.A. Hideaway is Back on the Market
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