If this distinctive modernist home perched high in the hills of the San Fernando Valley looks familiar to you, you may be a fan of Elle King, of the short-lived TV series “American Woman,” or simply of California midcentury modern architecture. This residence based on three 12-sided structures features prominently in all three.
Now the iconic Lewis Estate in the Encino hills is on the market for $8,495,000 and is waiting for a new owner to write the next chapter of its illustrious history.
The Lewis Estate’s celebrity-fueled history began when it was built in 1972 by Joby and Helen Lewis, the owners and operators of Lake Tahoe’s legendary Cal-Vada Lodge casino and nightclub. Their interests in various Hollywood nightclubs and liquor stores during the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s brought them to the Los Angeles area.
They proceeded to hire the renowned midcentury modern architect Donald G. Park to build the unique home, which consisted of two dodecagons, or 12-sided structures, connected by a glass pavilion. A third, separate guesthouse, also a dodecagon, was later added on the grounds.
However, it’s the high-ceilinged rotunda that’s a true vintage highlight. The wide-open area features a sunken living room, dining area, and kitchen.
Many of the original period fixtures were carefully preserved, including the clear globe hanging lights, the pebble-lined walls, remarkable brass sunburst front doors, and the rosewood detailing that can be found throughout the home.
All these meticulously maintained retro features make the Lewis Estate a period paradise for production companies.
It also served as the primary residence in multiple episodes of the 2018 TV series “American Woman,” a period comedy set in 1975, loosely based on the formative years of one of the cast members of “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” Kyle Richards, and starring Alicia Silverstone and Mena Suvari. You’ll see the distinctive dwelling everywhere in the series trailer below.
But the property is way outside the norm. For starters, it has a large lot with a view and hilltop location. Then there’s its vintage look and pristine condition. Add in its popularity as a set for film and television production, and there’s no telling what price it might bring.
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