May 19--A Midcentury Modern-style home long associated with filmmaker and aerospace tycoon Howard Hughes is for sale in Beverly Hills at $11.5 million.
The Trousdale-area estate was a party pad for Hollywood glitterati during Hughes' tenure, according to neighbors. Constructed in 1960, the house was designed by Samuel Wacht for Hughes, claims a subsequent owner of the home. A call to the architect's office to confirm Hughes' ownership has not been returned.
Perched on a half-acre promontory, the glass-and-white-stucco house features a rooftop deck with a wet bar and fireplace to take in views of the cityscape. The nine-foot-deep swimming pool has a diving board and a detached spa.
Inside, a sunken conversation pit and two-sided fireplace take center stage in the open plan living space, which has walls of glass on opposite sides. Automatic shades recede into the ceiling.
The house was renovated over two years starting in 2007 to add a 500-square-foot master suite and a bonus room/gym for a total of 4,300 square feet of living space. There are four bedrooms and five bathrooms. A four-vehicle carport was also added.
The Hughes Aircraft Co. founder, who died in 1976 at 70, enjoyed flying and experimental aircraft. His life story inspired the 2004 film "The Aviator," staring Leonardo DiCaprio.
His notable and sometimes controversial movies included the cleavage-revealing film "The Outlaw" (1943), the violence-laden "Scarface" (1932) and the 1930 war film "Hell's Angels." Several pilots died due to accidents during the filming.
The property last changed hands in 1999 for $1.34 million.
Ben Bacal of Rodeo Realty is the listing agent.
