A Historic Craftsman Compound in L.A. Lists for $2.5M
A landmarked main residence and cottage in Mount Washington offer a woodsy retreat from the city.
A Los Angeles Cultural Monument, the Treehaven property in Mount Washington has housed over half a dozen families since a small cottage was first built on the grounds in 1908. A larger house was added in 1915, creating a multigenerational refuge underneath a sprawling canopy of cedar, elm, eucalyptus, and palm trees.
Sited at the rear of a .30-acre lot, both the 1908 guest house and 1905 main residence are surrounded by dense greenery. A four-car garage is tucked into the hillside.
Photo courtesy of Compass
A series of stairs ascend from the street to the main entrance, connecting to a spacious front garden and terrace as well. Views from the top extend across the Arroyo Seco and toward Ernest E. Debs Park in Montecito Heights.
Photo courtesy of Compass
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While historic records do not list an architect, it is believed the 1915 Craftsman-style main residence was designed by Guy V. Colf, who also built the home and was known to serve dual roles on other projects. The 1908 cottage was built by the original property owner, Charles E. Bent, to serve as an artist studio and city retreat. While generations of families have since left their mark on Treehaven, the home’s history reveals itself through the many charming and original details.
Guy Vincent Colf, builder and believed architect of the main house, drew this rendering before its construction. The 4,200-square-foot structure was designed in the American Craftsman style, with a shingled exterior, low-pitched roof, and broad front porch.
Photo courtesy of Compass
The timeless Craftsman-style residence retains much of its original charm, offering built-ins with leaded glass doors, handcrafted woodwork, and period fixtures. A five-room lower level features a large living area with an original fireplace, accompanied by a formal dining area and study. The kitchen offers updated appliances while retaining its original layout and cabinetry. Four bedrooms and two bathrooms are found upstairs.
A porch stretches across the front facade, creating a shady spot from which to view the garden.
Photo courtesy of Compass
The detached cottage is now a duplex offering additional living space, including a two-bedroom, one-bath rental space that is presently occupied at market rate. The other half of the structure retains its original purpose as an artist studio. In 1988, the entire Treehaven property was designated Los Angeles Cultural Monuments #392, solidifying its place within the Highland Park/Garvanza Historic Preservation Overlay District. A current Mills Act contract also provides tax benefits for the property. Scroll ahead to see more of this unique offering, currently listed for $2,485,000.
The front door opens into a large living area, complete with an original brick fireplace flanked by cabinets and windows in the traditional Craftsman style.
Photo courtesy of Compass
The large area opens up to a study area on one side and a dining room at the opposite end.
Photo courtesy of Compass
A look at the cozy study, which is wrapped in wainscoting and two large windows at the corner.
Photo courtesy of Compass
Continuing around the back, a small breakfast nook now occupies the rear entryway.
Photo courtesy of Compass
The kitchen offers a mix of old and new, with modern appliances and fixtures contrasting with the original cabinetry and layout.
Photo courtesy of Compass
The cozy space also offers extensive cabinetry in a large pantry to the left.
Photo courtesy of Compass
Rounding out the bottom level is a formal dining area, which connects back to the living room.
Photo courtesy of Compass
The room features a wall of doors opening onto the front porch, as well as additional built-ins.
Photo courtesy of Compass
Several bookcases frame the staircase landing upstairs.
Photo courtesy of Compass
Here, the master bedroom features large windows and a brick fireplace, as well as two walk-in closets and an ensuite bathroom.
Photo courtesy of Compass
A look at one of the home's three remaining bedrooms.
Photo courtesy of Compass
At night, the front garden provides a spacious area for entertaining.
Photo courtesy of Compass
The historic Treehaven property, located at 4211 Glenalbyn Drive in Los Angeles, California, is currently listed for $2,485,000 by Edith Reyna and Liz Johnson of Compass.
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