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A historic 1923 cabin in Beverly Hills’s Benedict Canyon, famously occupied by socialite Laura Harding and actress Katharine Hepburn, is on the market for $1.4 million. This 1,200-square-foot, two-bedroom, one-bathroom property offers a rare combination of vintage charm, celebrity history, and potential for expansion on a half-acre wooded lot. For buyers seeking a unique retreat with deep Hollywood roots, this home represents a significant opportunity.
What is the historical significance of this Benedict Canyon property? Built in 1923, this cabin served as a key hideaway during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Its most notable resident was Laura Harding, an heiress and philanthropist who was the lifelong best friend of actress Katharine Hepburn. The two women lived there together for several years in the 1930s, with Harding reportedly putting her own career on hold to manage Hepburn’s professional affairs, leading Harding to jokingly refer to herself as "Miss Hepburn's husband." While the exact nature of their relationship has been a subject of speculation, as noted in biographies like William J. Mann's "Kate: The Woman Who Was Hepburn," Hepburn herself addressed the rumors in her 1991 memoir, stating their bond was platonic. The home’s history as a creative sanctuary for these iconic figures is a central part of its appeal.
What are the key features and upgrades of this 1920s home? Despite its age, the home has been substantially updated while preserving its vintage character. Key original details include oak features, wood floors, beamed vaulted ceilings, a functioning 1928 Magic Chef stove, and a stone fireplace. The property has been upgraded with modern essentials like solar power, skylights, and a refinished large deck that offers peaceful canyon views. The bathroom has been remodeled but retains an antique claw-foot tub, blending historic charm with contemporary convenience. Creative touches like stained-glass windows and a live-edge wood slab island bar add unique character.
What makes the location and lot so desirable? The property is situated on an unusually spacious lot of just over half an acre, a rarity in Beverly Hills. Shaded by mature foliage, the home has a secluded, "treehouse" feel. The lot’s size presents numerous possibilities for restoration, expansion, or even building a new primary residence, subject to local zoning regulations. Benedict Canyon is known for its privacy and prestigious residents, past and present, including notable figures from the entertainment and business worlds. The location offers proximity to Los Angeles amenities while maintaining a sense of secluded retreat.
Is this Beverly Hills property a good investment? Priced at $1.4 million, this property’s value is driven by three main factors: its historic significance, the size and potential of the land, and its location in one of Los Angeles’s most exclusive enclaves. Based on our experience assessment, comparable land values in Benedict Canyon can be significantly higher, making this an entry point into a premium market. The home’s celebrity provenance adds intangible value that can be attractive for certain buyers. However, any investment should be weighed against potential costs for updates or expansions. The combination of history, land value, and location creates a strong investment profile for the right buyer.
For potential buyers, this property is more than a home; it's a piece of Hollywood history with modern potential. The key considerations are the historic preservation aspects, the scope for customization, and the unparalleled privacy of the location. Consulting with a local real estate expert familiar with Beverly Hills historic properties is recommended to fully understand the opportunities and any restrictions.
