Wilt Chamberlain's Former Bel Air Bachelor Pad Is Listed For $18.9M
Here's your chance to own one of the best examples of Brutalist architecture in Los Angeles.
Originally designed in 1971 by architect David Tenneson Rich for basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain, there's no doubt this dramatic fortress-like residence is grand in scale, much like its former owner. The six-bedroom, six-bath property features over 7,000 square feet of living space, and has recently been treated to a stunning renovation.
Now, hitting the market for the first time in 10 years, the iconic home—formally known as Ursa Major—is being listed for $18,999,000.
Based on the triangular form, the Brutalist-style property is a giant, soaring statement of redwood, steel, and Bouquet Canyon stone.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Redwood groves in Yosemite National Park, as well as the basic triangular form, Rich worked closely with the basketball star when creating the original design.
The gated residence sits on two and a half acres of land, overlooking the Bel Air Reservoir.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
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"I drew shapes in the dirt and Wilt stood inside each one. A square, a circle, and a triangle were tested. I said, 'Wilt, this is your house, which one feels right for you?' The triangle was where Wilt felt immediately comfortable, and the basis of the project was defined," Rich explains.
The home is accessed by a beautiful stone bridge.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
The ground level features a massive stone fireplace and a sunken conversation pit.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
The dominate brutalist design is offset by ample glazing, making the interiors bright and airy.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
The open plan flows harmoniously within the cathedral-like canopy of glass and redwood.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
Chamberlain's custom-built pool-table remains in this corner of the house.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
A look at the stainless-steel chef's kitchen and breakfast room.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
The upper level is devoted to the oversized master suite.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
Rich originally used a helicopter to scout out the perfect site for Chamberlain's residence. The mountaintop location had served as a Nike anti-aircraft missile site during the Cold War.
Photo courtesy of Sotheby's International Realty
15216 Antelo Place is now being listed for $18,999,000 by Sotheby's International Realty. See the full listing here.
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