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A unique Venice, California, residence designed by renowned architect David Hertz, featuring reclaimed wood from the Hollywood Bowl and owned by actors Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer, is on the market for $14 million. The property's standout features include its sustainable design, rare double lot location one block from the beach, and panoramic ocean views. This home exemplifies a growing trend in luxury real estate where architectural pedigree and eco-conscious materials significantly enhance property value.
What makes the architectural design of this Venice home unique? The home's uniqueness stems from its design by environmental architect David Hertz and its extensive use of reclaimed materials. The exterior cladding is primarily constructed from Alaskan yellow cedar benches salvaged from the iconic Hollywood Bowl music venue. David Hertz's firm is recognized for designing sustainable and restorative buildings, and his approach often involves reusing materials to minimize waste. In this nearly 7,200-square-foot home, this philosophy extends to features like reclaimed teak flooring. The use of such distinctive materials, complete with subtle, visible seat numbers from the benches, provides the property with a one-of-a-kind historical and cultural narrative that is rare in the market.
What are the key sustainable and luxury features of the property? Beyond the reclaimed wood, the home is equipped with several high-end, eco-friendly systems that appeal to modern luxury buyers. These include solar electrical and thermal systems for energy generation and water heating, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient lighting. The luxury amenities are carefully integrated and include a sauna, a gym, an elevator, and a semi-indoor pool—a particularly rare find for a property so close to the Venice beach. The semi-indoor pool, partially covered by parts of the house, offers a year-round swimming experience protected from the elements. These features demonstrate a commitment to sustainability without compromising on luxury, a combination that is increasingly sought after.
How does the property capitalize on its Southern California location? The home's design masterfully embraces its prime Venice location, just a block from the ocean. It was designed with a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, a hallmark of modern Southern California architecture. The top level is dedicated to the kitchen and dining area, which opens directly onto a large deck, effectively creating an extension of the living space. This layout is ideal for indoor-outdoor dining and entertaining while taking full advantage of the killer ocean views. An upstairs office also capitalizes on the vista, providing a workspace with a inspiring outlook, perfect for creative professionals or any buyer seeking a connection to the coastal environment.
What is the history and potential value appreciation of this property? According to available information, the current owners purchased the property in 2010 for just over $1.2 million, when a small one-bedroom home stood on the lot. That original structure now serves as a guesthouse alongside the main residence built in 2017. This history indicates a significant value appreciation driven by the extensive development and unique architectural investment. The rare double lot itself represents substantial value in a high-demand coastal market like Venice. Based on our experience assessment, properties with such a strong narrative—combining celebrity ownership, architectural significance, and sustainable design—often hold their value well and attract discerning buyers.
For potential buyers, the key consideration is the appreciation for architectural integrity and sustainable design. This home is not just a purchase but an investment in a unique piece of California cultural and architectural history. The practical advice is to carefully evaluate properties where significant value is derived from bespoke architectural elements and eco-friendly features, as these can offer both personal enjoyment and long-term value retention in the luxury market.
