Snag One of Harry Gesner’s Boat Houses in the Hollywood Hills for $920K

Self-taught architect Harry Gesner grew up surfing in Southern California, and the ocean had a clear influence on his work—from his famous Wave House (topped with a cresting roofline that reportedly inspired the Sydney Opera House) to the Sandcastle. In the late 1950s, however, seafaring vessels served as this visionary architect’s inspiration.

Gesner constructed eight boat-shaped homes with the help of Norwegian shipbuilders who "reportedly shaped the wood structural members and finishes with handaxes rather than saws," according to the Los Angeles Conservancy. The interiors of the homes are clad in wood and feature angled ceilings and built-in furniture—making for a very nautical vibe.

Perched high in the Hollywood Hills, the boat houses are striking from a distance as they uniformly cantilever out over the steep terrain. And while the exteriors all appear the same, 7149 Woodrow Wilson Drive is special, according to listing agent Justin Freeling. "This particular boat house is the only one with built-in windows on the side that take in views from the San Fernando Valley to the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood sign, and beyond," he says. "It’s rare that something so unique comes up at this price point."

Set on a narrow lot, the cozy 1,136-square-foot two-bedroom, one-bath home features an open plan with new cork floors, an updated kitchen and bath, and sliding glass doors leading out to the deck. Downstairs, there is a large primary bedroom with exposed-beam ceilings and a wall of windows, and there’s a lofted space perfect for a home office or a secondary bedroom. Scroll ahead for a closer look inside.

7149 Woodrow Wilson Drive in Los Angeles, California, is currently listed for $920,000 by Justin Freeling and Rob Kallick of Take Sunset at Compass.

Know of a home for sale or rent that should be featured on Dwell.com? Find out how to submit to Dwell.