This Darling Los Angeles Bungalow Just Hit the Market for $899K

A diamond in the rough now shimmers as a delightful retreat, complete with two turnkey bonus spaces and striking views of the Hollywood Sign.

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Kathryn M.

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The first thing you’ll notice about this 1929 residence are the views. Perched on a spacious hillside lot, the one-bedroom dwelling overlooks both Griffith Park and the iconic Hollywood Sign. "Seeing the sign always brought back childhood memories of when I lived in the South Bay," says current owner and landscape designer Carolyn Sumida. "I would stare toward the city [in awe], with the sign seeming teeny tiny. From here, it’s so close and clear!"

Gated from the street, the tucked-away home feels like a peaceful oasis while still being close to downtown and the Elysian Park hiking trails.

Carolyn and her partner, Joel Boulanger, a landscape contractor, have spent the last 16 years revitalizing the property. "When we bought the house, it was small and the landscape was overgrown with weeds, but we saw that it had great potential. Together, we dreamed of creating a little tree house retreat."

At over 9,000 square feet, the property takes in sweeping views.

Careful not to rush the renovation process, the couple methodically carved out a lush urban escape. "At first, there was virtually no outdoor space for dining or seating. So, we created that space over time," notes Carolyn. The couple planted a combination of mesquite and olive trees to help enhance the property’s sense of privacy. "It was important to us to create a home that evoked remoteness and tranquility, yet that was still close to the city."

The updated interiors boast high ceilings and exposed wooden beams, all awash with natural light.

Custom shelving spans the living room, complementing the home’s natural wood palette.

In addition to transforming the lot, the couple also gutted the interior of the primary residence, raised the ceiling, and integrated large skylights. "We love the interior/exterior feel that the home now radiates," continues Carolyn. "When looking out the main window, the mature trees frame your view." Wood beams and furnishings pop against the crisp white walls, while an open layout creates effortless flow.

The sun-kissed kitchen offers stainless-steel appliances and plenty of storage. "You also have a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign while doing the dishes," says Carolyn.

The property also has two finished bonus spaces: a fully detached guesthouse, and a pick-your-own-adventure space beneath the main living area. Buyers will find that the expansive lot has ample room to realize even more passion projects, such as extending the original house or adding a new structure near the street.