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A unique artist compound in Los Angeles, originally the home and studio of famed artist Edward Ruscha, is on the market for $4.65 million. Located in the coveted Brentwood neighborhood, the 6,350-square-foot property offers a rare blend of artistic history, architectural significance, and a serene, retreat-like atmosphere just minutes from the city. This article details the property's features, its transformation from two ranches into a single estate, and its appeal to creative buyers seeking a primary residence that feels like a permanent vacation.
What is the History and Layout of This Brentwood Property?
The property's story begins with two separate 1950s California ranch homes on a 1.73-acre corner lot. According to a 1994 feature in Architectural Digest, artist Edward Ruscha and his wife purchased the neighboring house and ingeniously connected the two structures with a central living room. This fusion created the sprawling main residence. Ruscha's former studio was later converted into a guesthouse. Since its construction in 1975, the compound has had only three owners, including its current proprietor, film and commercial producer Rhea Scott. The estate now comprises the primary residence, a one-bedroom guesthouse, a meditation studio, and a treehouse.
What Are the Key Features of the Main Residence?
The main house exemplifies a thoughtful, open floor plan with midcentury influences. It boasts vaulted ceilings, oversized windows, and skylights that flood the space with natural light, highlighting the eye-catching hardwood floors and four fireplaces. The home includes three en-suite bedrooms. A modern farm-style kitchen is equipped with high-end appliances and provides access to a screened-in porch. A standout space is the library, described as "seductive" with its built-in bookcases. The primary suite features French doors that open directly to a poolside patio, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.
How Does the Property Blend Landscape with Living Space?
The expansive grounds are a key selling point, designed to make residents feel removed from the urban environment. Listing agent Frank Langen of Deasy Penner & Partners emphasizes the property's energy, stating, "You feel like you're not in the city at all, but you are just a 12-minute drive from Sunset." The landscaped gardens, featuring cacti and fountains, envelop the property. A beautiful kidney-shaped pool with a diving board serves as a central recreational feature. This blending of nature with living space creates what Langen calls an "energetically sublime compound."
Is the Property Priced Correctly in the Current Market?
With a total price of $4.65 million, the per-square-foot cost is approximately $732. Langen acknowledges that the market is "tricky" but asserts that the home is priced correctly for its unique attributes, history, and size. The property's versatility is a significant factor; it can function as a spacious primary residence for a family, be purchased jointly with a friend due to its capacity for two families, or serve as a retreat for a couple.
Practical Advice for Prospective Buyers
This is not a standard transaction but an opportunity to acquire a piece of Los Angeles art history. Based on our experience assessment, properties with such a distinct pedigree and versatile layout are rare. The compound's value is rooted in its architectural integrity, its proven appeal to creative owners, and its unparalleled sense of seclusion. When considering a property of this nature, it is crucial to evaluate its maintenance needs and how the unique layout aligns with your lifestyle. The asking price reflects its status as a one-of-a-kind offering rather than a direct comparison to conventional homes in the area.
