If you are ready to turn a house into a home, Ryan Murphy has listed his stunning home, famously known as the Brown House, for sale. Murphy is now looking to part ways with his iconic Bel-Air Padhas entered the housing market to the tune of $33.9 million, once briefly owned by the beloved Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi.
While commonly known as the Brown House, this six-bedroom historic mid-century home was designed by renowned architect Richard Neutra, in 1955 and is located in the Bel Air neighborhood of Los Angeles. The home is the recipient of an award from The American Institute of Architects and is celebrated as a masterpiece of exemplary and impactful architecture.
Many celebrities have found themselves attracted to the clean-lined home of the late architect, who was also a pioneer of indoor-outdoor California living. Former entertainment names who have previously owned the Brown House include Flea, Mitch Glazer, and Kelly Lynch, stylist Jeanne Yang, and directors Josef von Sternberg and Marc Forster.
But the name drops don’t stop there. In 1997, the famous American fashion designer and filmmaker Tom Ford purchased the property for just over $2 million, eventually selling it in 2019 for $20 million. While their time may have been brief, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi enjoyed the home after buying it in an off-market deal for $29 million in 2022.
One of the property’s current listing agents, Tim Wollaston at Riley Real Estate, stated that “The Brown House is a historically-significant L.A. landmark; an updated, yet still refined, time capsule that embodies the best parts of Neutra and all those who have had the fortune of calling it ‘home’ over the years.” This is the result of Murphy’s efforts to restore the 3,795-square-foot L.A. estate.
Famed for his role in creating Glee and American Horror Story, Murphy purchased the Brown House in 2022 and embarked on a mission of renovating it and decorating it in a more eclectic style that wasn’t beholden to its mid-century roots. In a piece by Murphy in Architectural Digest earlier this year, writer and producer stated, “I had been brainwashed by shelter magazines for decades: Never place something Victorian with something pure and modern. But that’s what we did here, with candlesticks, chairs, really everything. It was like a house of misfit toys. In a great midcentury home, the clean-lined architecture is usually the star. But what do stars need to shine? Quirky supporting characters.”
Known for being a “work of art,” the Brown house offers breathtaking 180-degree views of L.A. and displays craftsmanship in glass, wood, and concrete that has earned homeowners the right to brag. The listing includes restored original cabinetry, terrazzo floors, and walls of glass that let you enjoy the sights of Roman-inspired gardens from the comfort of your home.
Other features include a primary suite with lacquered walls, black mosaic bathroom tile, wood paneling, and a living room described as “palatial” and “double-wide,” with sleek glass walls. Those who love to whip up their own culinary creations can take advantage of the two kitchens in the home, one with an L-shaped counter, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, and windows for days.
Interested buyers have the option to also purchase the property with all its contents for a negotiated price, which includes furniture and objects from other “mid-centuries” throughout history.
