The Cecil B. DeMille Estate: A Glimpse Into Old Hollywood Grandeur
Stepping into the world of classic Old Hollywood, there's a certain magic that, you know, just pulls you in. And when we talk about luxurious homes from that golden era, the Cecil B. DeMille estate truly stands out. It's not just a house; it’s a showstopper, a piece of history that continues to capture imaginations even today. This grand property, with its deep roots in cinematic legend, seems to whisper stories of a bygone time.
This remarkable Los Angeles mansion was once the personal sanctuary of Cecil B. DeMille, a pioneering filmmaker who shaped much of what we think of as Hollywood. He purchased this special place in 1916, right at a high point in his career. It became his cherished home for many years, a quiet retreat from the busy film sets and bright lights. It’s a place where, perhaps, he found calm and inspiration.
Fast forward to more recent times, and this historic gem has once again made headlines, particularly when a famous face, Angelina Jolie, showed a very real interest in making it her own. Her exploration of this stunning property, with its rich past and incredible features, simply underscores its lasting appeal. It’s still, very much, a highly sought-after residence.
Table of Contents
- Cecil B. DeMille: A Brief Look
- A Filmmaker's Haven: DeMille's Choice
- Architectural Splendor and Design
- Unveiling the Estate's Grand Features
- The Serene Setting of Laughlin Park
- Angelina Jolie's Connection to the Estate
- The Lasting Legacy of Hollywood Luxury
- Frequently Asked Questions
Cecil B. DeMille: A Brief Look
Cecil B. DeMille was, quite simply, a titan of early Hollywood. He was a film director and producer who played a huge part in shaping the motion picture industry. His work often featured grand scale and dramatic storytelling, making him a household name. He was known for epic films that captured the public’s attention.
He had a knack for creating movies that resonated with large audiences, bringing stories to life on a scale rarely seen before. His influence stretched far and wide across the developing film world. It’s fair to say that, in some respects, he helped define what a Hollywood blockbuster could be.
The estate itself stands as a testament to his success and personal taste. It provided him a private world away from the demands of his very public career. This home, you know, was more than just a place to live; it was a symbol of his achievements.
Personal Details & Bio Data
| Full Name | Cecil Blount DeMille |
| Born | August 12, 1881 |
| Died | January 21, 1959 |
| Profession | Film Director, Producer |
| Years Active | 1913–1959 |
| Known For | Epic films, shaping early Hollywood |
| Estate Purchase Year | 1916 |
A Filmmaker's Haven: DeMille's Choice
Imagine being at the top of your field, creating cinematic masterpieces that captivated millions. That was Cecil B. DeMille in 1916. It was at this very moment, a bit like a turning point, that he decided to purchase the house that would become his private retreat. This wasn't just any house; it was a place he would call his sanctuary, a true escape from the bustling world of film production.
He spent a considerable amount of time living in this estate, making it his primary residence for over four decades. This long period of occupancy means the house absorbed much of his personal and professional life. It truly became, in a way, intertwined with his story.
The decision to buy this particular home speaks volumes about his desire for privacy and comfort. It offered a peaceful setting where he could relax and, perhaps, ponder his next big project. This choice of home, quite honestly, reflected his stature and his need for a personal space that matched his public persona.
Architectural Splendor and Design
The Cecil B. DeMille estate is, in fact, a magnificent example of Beaux Arts architecture. This particular style, known for its classical influences and grand scale, was quite popular during the early 20th century. The main mansion itself was constructed in 1913, just a few years before DeMille made it his own.
The architect behind this beautiful structure was William J. His vision brought to life a home that combined elegance with impressive size. The design elements, you know, often include ornate details, symmetrical layouts, and imposing facades, all of which are evident in this Los Angeles showstopper.
This type of design was very much in vogue for those seeking homes that projected status and timeless beauty. It’s a style that, even now, commands respect and admiration for its craftsmanship and attention to detail. The home stands as a lasting tribute to the architectural trends of its time.
Unveiling the Estate's Grand Features
The DeMille estate is, quite literally, a sprawling property, set on a generous 2.1 elevated acres. This substantial plot of land provides a sense of vastness and privacy, something that was probably quite appealing to a public figure like DeMille. The elevated position, too, would offer lovely views of the surrounding area.
Inside the main residence, there is an impressive 11,000 square feet of living space. This is a very large home, offering plenty of room for both daily living and entertaining. The sheer size of the interior suggests a lifestyle of luxury and comfort, reflecting the success of its original owner.
When it comes to the living quarters, the mansion boasts six bedrooms. This provides ample space for family and guests, making it a very practical home for a large household or for hosting visitors. Each bedroom, you might imagine, would have its own unique charm.
The estate also features ten bathrooms, which is, honestly, quite a lot for a private residence. This number of bathrooms suggests a high level of convenience and luxury, ensuring comfort for everyone residing there or visiting. It speaks to the home’s grand scale.
Beyond the main house, the property includes a fantastic pool, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the Los Angeles sunshine. There's also a dedicated pool house, which adds another layer of convenience and leisure to the outdoor space. It's a complete setup for outdoor enjoyment.
Additionally, the estate comes with a studio house. This separate structure could have served many purposes, perhaps as a private office, a creative space for DeMille, or even guest accommodations. It adds significant versatility and value to the property, truly making it a comprehensive compound.
The presence of these multiple structures—the Beaux Arts mansion, the pool house, and the studio—means the estate offers a variety of living and working environments. It’s a very complete package, designed for a luxurious and well-appointed life. The rolling grounds, too, add to the overall beauty and spaciousness of the property.
The Serene Setting of Laughlin Park
The Cecil B. DeMille estate is situated within the serene and private Laughlin Park, a truly special part of Los Feliz. This gated community is known for its quiet streets and beautiful homes, offering a peaceful escape within the bustling city of Los Angeles. It’s a place where privacy is, very much, a key feature.
When the development of Laughlin Park first began, DeMille was one of the very first people to purchase a home there. This indicates his foresight and desire to be part of an exclusive and well-planned neighborhood. It’s interesting to note that, as a matter of fact, Charlie Chaplin, another film legend, purchased the other of the first homes built in this area.
This historical detail, about DeMille and Chaplin being among the first residents, adds another layer of Old Hollywood glamour to the location. It suggests that Laughlin Park was, right from the start, a preferred spot for prominent figures in the entertainment industry. The estate provided DeMille with a secure and tranquil environment.
Occupying 2.1 acres within this exclusive enclave, the DeMille estate enjoys a prime position. The gated nature of Laughlin Park ensures a high degree of seclusion, which was undoubtedly important for someone of DeMille's fame. It's a setting that, quite simply, complements the grandeur of the home itself.
Angelina Jolie's Connection to the Estate
In recent years, the Cecil B. DeMille estate captured public attention again when it was reported that Angelina Jolie had made an offer on the historic property. This news sparked a lot of interest, bringing the grand old mansion back into the spotlight. It was, honestly, quite a buzz-worthy moment in real estate.
The asking price for this magnificent Los Angeles mansion was just under $24.95 million, with reports indicating Jolie's offer was for around $24.5 million. This price point reflects the estate's significant size, historical value, and prime location. It’s a very considerable sum for a private residence.
It’s easy to see why a star like Angelina Jolie would be drawn to this particular piece of Los Angeles real estate. The combination of its rich history, its spacious 11,000 square feet of living space, and its luxurious features like the six bedrooms and ten bathrooms makes it a truly unique offering. It’s a home that, arguably, offers both comfort and a connection to Hollywood’s past.
Her interest in the property underscores its enduring appeal to those who appreciate classic architecture, privacy, and a touch of Hollywood legend. The estate is, quite simply, a rare find in today's market, blending old-world charm with modern-day luxury. It’s a home that, you know, truly stands apart.
The Lasting Legacy of Hollywood Luxury
The Cecil B. DeMille estate remains a symbol of classic Old Hollywood at its finest and most luxurious. It embodies an era when grandeur and elegance were paramount, and homes were built to last, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and thoughtful design. This property, in a way, tells a story of that time.
From its elevated position on 2.1 acres to its numerous bedrooms and bathrooms, every aspect of the estate speaks to a lifestyle of comfort and prestige. The presence of a pool, a pool house, and a studio house further enhances its appeal, offering a complete and very private living experience. It’s a place that, quite literally, has everything.
Its location in the serene and private Laughlin Park adds another layer of desirability, providing a peaceful retreat while still being within Los Angeles. The fact that Cecil B. DeMille chose this specific spot for his sanctuary, and lived there for so long, adds immense historical weight to the property. It’s a home that, you know, truly has a soul.
The continued interest in the estate, particularly from prominent figures like Angelina Jolie, ensures its place in the public imagination. It serves as a reminder of Hollywood’s golden age and the enduring allure of its legendary figures and their magnificent homes. This estate is, simply put, a true showstopper that continues to impress.
To learn more about historic properties on our site, you can explore our archives. We also have details on luxury real estate trends, which might interest you. For more historical context on early Hollywood, you might find information on the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' Cecil B. DeMille papers quite insightful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of the Cecil B. DeMille estate?
The estate is quite impressive, featuring a main Beaux Arts mansion with 11,000 square feet of living space. It has six bedrooms and ten bathrooms, which is quite a lot. The property also includes a pool, a separate pool house, and a studio house, all set on 2.1 elevated acres. It’s a very complete and luxurious setup.
Who built the main mansion on the Cecil B. DeMille estate?
The main Beaux Arts mansion was built in 1913 by an architect named William J. DeMille himself purchased the house a few years later, in 1916, making it his home for many decades. It’s a beautiful example of early 20th-century design.
Is the Cecil B. DeMille estate located in a private area?
Yes, the estate is located in the serene and private Laughlin Park, which is a gated community in Los Feliz. This area is known for its seclusion and peaceful environment, offering a quiet escape. DeMille was, in fact, one of the first people to buy a home there, seeking that very privacy.
Cecil B. DeMille Estate – McKevitt Landscape
Cecil B. DeMille Estate – McKevitt Landscape
Cecil B. DeMille Estate - Tichenor & Thorp | Architecture, Landscape
