Silent Film Star Charlie Farrell’s Historic 1934 Palm Springs Residence Lists for $3.7M
The Movie Colony is a famed residential area of Palm Springs, so named because of its many celebrity residents that lived there between the 1930s and 1960s. From Marilyn Monroe and Cary Grant to Jack Benny and others—numerous iconic stars owned a home in the area at one point or another. Today, the four-block neighborhood is still prized for its central location, classic style, and historic abodes, one of which recently came up for sale.
An aerial view of the landmarked Charlie Farrell Residence at 630 East Tachevah Drive in Palm Springs. The main house stretches along Tachevah Drive, while the second, detached guest house wraps around the corner of the block.
Charlie Farrell, an early silent film actor best known for his on-screen romances with Janet Gaynor, snagged his spot in the Movie Colony around 1952. Designated historic site number 80 by the City of Palm Springs, the Charlie Farrell Residence is once again looking for new owners, offering a one-acre oasis with two houses and a sparkling backyard pool.
A veranda connects the four-bedroom main house with a separate one-bedroom Casita. Pathways lead through the terra cotta-tiled courtyard to the second, fully detached guest house, which offers two additional bedrooms and independent living areas.
Farrell was an active member of the local community during his time at the residence, cofounding the Palm Springs Racquet Club and serving as mayor of Palm Springs from 1948 to 1953. Historical records indicate he lived at the property with his wife Virginia and remained there until his death at the age of 89 in 1990.
The entryway of the main residence reveals a classic Spanish Revival interior. One of several living areas is straight ahead, while the formal dining room is located to the left.
Although the exact architect is unknown, the Spanish Revival influence is clear throughout the property—from rounded archways and multiple Kiva fireplaces, to finishes of terra cotta, wood, and stucco. The compound offers a total of seven bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and nearly 6,000 square feet between all of the structures. Keep scrolling to see more of this historic residence, currently listed for $3,698,900.
The formal dining area features a timber beamed ceiling and French doors overlooking the central courtyard and fountain.
A look at one of several living areas located in the main residence. Details found in this space include a soaring beamed ceiling, large fireplace, and period-styled lighting.
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An open family room and breakfast area stretches across the back of the home, with a line of French doors leading to the backyard.
A large kitchen is located off the family room. Carrara marble counters line the space, which also offers updated appliances, cabinetry, and other finishes.
The master bedroom features one of several Kiva fireplaces.
A look at the master bathroom, which is also finished in Carrara marble and offers two large windows protected by the lush landscaping.
Another view of the master bedroom. The space features two large French doors: one leading out to the pool, and another opening up to a private courtyard.
The private courtyard off master suite features a small pergola-topped sitting area.
An outdoor shower can be found through the other set of French doors.
A look at the living space in the separate casita, connected to the main house by a covered walkway. The timber-beamed space is warmed by yet another Kiva fireplace.
The separate casita offers a private one-bedroom suite.
Walkways from the pool and courtyard lead to the second house, which is bordered by its own private patio.
Inside, the living room looks out onto the lawn. The second structure also offers a full Carrara marble kitchen, two spacious bedroom suites, and a private laundry room.
A look at one of the two bedrooms, this one offering its own Kiva fireplace.
Located on the outer edge of Movie Colony, surrounded by mountain views, the Charlie Ferrell Residence offers an oasis within the City of Palm Springs.
630 East Tachevah Drive in Palm Springs, CA, is currently listed for $3,698,900 by Dave Kibbey of Pacific Sotheby's International Realty.
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