Yet another piece of Hollywood history hits the market! The 'Van Dekker House,' originally commissioned by actor Albert Van Dekker in 1940, is on sale for $4,500,000 with Benjamin Kahle of Compass and Desiree Zuckerman of Coldwell Banker Realty.
Designated as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument No. 974, it was built by famed architect R. M. Schindler, whose work was shaped by Frank Lloyd Wright. It is his largest known residential project, and helped define early Modernism in Southern California. In addition to its architectural acclaim, the property has a rich Hollywood history: after the Van Dekker family, it was owned by screenwriter A.L. 'Buzz' and hosted figures including Humphrey Bogart, Robert Mitchum, and William Faulkner.
The mid-century modernist exterior and warm wood interiors live up to all of the home's accolades. Let's take the tour. You will get a peek inside the beautiful property and descriptions of what makes each room special. I've also curated an edit of furnishings to help you recreate the gorgeously natural interiors.
The residence spans about 4,000 square feet on about half an acre of land, encompassing 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.
A gorgeously designed living room represents Schindler's signature style, which emphasizes light, volume, and material clarity. Stunning wood-beamed ceilings and expansive windows create synergy with the surrounding Southern California landscape. I especially love the integration of soft, curved furniture.
Recreate The Modernist Living Room Edit
This pretty beige sofa is very similar to the one in the Van Dekker house. The subtle curves, warm beige tone, and soft surface are gorgeous.
This black-and-white wool rug channels the dramatic elegance of this modernist living room while adding warmth and texture underfoot. Its striking pattern pairs perfectly with hardwood floors, offering both glamour and practical slip-resistance in winter.
Upholstered in beautiful light velvet, this accent chair is a retro-style staple. Designed on a stained finish wooden base, this accent chair features a padded seat and back cushions and padded cushioned arms to provide you with a comfortable seating experience (and looks stunning in the process).
If you love the look of the curved coffee tables in this living room, this pretty mushroom one is the perfect pick for recreating the look. It would be gorgeous for adding a curve to a straight-lined sofa.
A collection of photography is the ideal coffee table book for adding height and color to a neutral coffee table. This prettily textured one is filled with gorgeous images you won't want to miss.
This beautiful mid-20th-century bronze crane is the perfect antique piece to transform your home. A bronze statue is a great choice for adding character and patina to a modern living room.
The cream walls and wood panels of the dining room and kitchen evoke quintessential features of mid-century modern interior design. They feel both airy and cocooning.
Each bedroom in the home features an en-suite bath and built-in storage. The primary suite includes Valley views, a private gym, and an updated bath. Original built-ins incorporate Schindler's design approach throughout the estate.
Additional spaces include a stunning office and game room, which holds an impressive wine cellar.
The outdoor space is just as striking, featuring a salt water pool with swim jets and a wooden deck with a fire pit. It's the perfect spot for outdoor entertaining this summer.
No matter where you live in the world, you can recreate the subtle beauty of this modernist space. With the inspiration of Hollywood history behind you, you can't go wrong.
