Inside Lucille Ball’s 1927 Spanish Colonial Gem in Beverly Hills With Original Tilework

The Allure of Old Hollywood in Beverly Hills

It’s hard to imagine a more iconic setting than Lucille Ball’s 1927 Spanish Colonial home in Beverly Hills. Stepping through its arched doorway is like entering a time capsule from the golden age of Hollywood.

The property, which sits on a quiet, tree-lined street, instantly transports guests back to the era when movie stars lived like royalty. Local real estate records show that Beverly Hills has preserved fewer than 150 homes from the 1920s, making this residence especially rare.

The home’s facade, characterized by white stucco, red clay roof tiles, and intricate wrought-iron details, is a classic example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture so popular in Southern California during that time. Sightseers still drive by hoping to catch a glimpse of a Hollywood legend, proving the property’s lasting appeal.

The home remains a symbol of glamour, nostalgia, and architectural heritage.

Lucille Ball’s Personal Touches

Lucille Ball, one of television’s most beloved comedians, purchased the property in the late 1950s at the peak of her career. According to property tax archives, she and Desi Arnaz paid about $85,000 for the home, which was a substantial sum then.

Ball was known for her impeccable taste and sense of style, which she poured into the home’s interior design. She favored rich, warm colors and hand-chosen furnishings that reflected her playful personality.

Friends and visitors would often recall how the home felt inviting yet sophisticated, a perfect reflection of Lucille herself. Family photos and memorabilia lined the hallways, making it clear this was not just a showplace but a true family home.

The property remains a testament to Ball’s legacy as both an entertainer and a tastemaker.

Original Tilework: A Masterpiece Preserved

One of the most captivating features of the home is its original tilework, painstakingly preserved for nearly a century. The entryway boasts a dramatic staircase with hand-painted risers, each one featuring a unique floral or geometric pattern.

The living room’s fireplace is framed by hand-glazed tiles, while the bathrooms feature intricate mosaics characteristic of the 1920s. Restoration experts have noted that the tiles were likely sourced from Malibu Potteries, a renowned tilemaker from the era.

Each tile tells a story, and the vibrant colors have stood the test of time, a testament to the craftsmen’s skill. Preservationists consider the tilework a rare find, as many homes from this period have lost their original details in renovations.

The home’s current value is boosted significantly due to these authentic Spanish Colonial elements.

Architectural Details That Turn Heads

Beyond the tilework, the house is filled with architectural flourishes that make it truly unique. The exposed wooden beams in the living room ceiling are original and have been carefully maintained.

Arched doorways and windows allow natural light to flood the rooms, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The wrought-iron banisters and light fixtures were custom-made for the house in the 1920s and remain in excellent condition.

According to the Los Angeles Conservancy, such original features are what set the home apart from similar properties. The thick plaster walls help keep the house cool in the summer, showcasing the practical side of its historic design.

Each room reveals another exquisite detail, from hand-carved moldings to painted ceiling medallions, underscoring the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

The Grand Living Room

The living room is the heart of the home, both architecturally and emotionally. With soaring ceilings, a massive fireplace, and oversized arched windows, the space feels both grand and welcoming.

Lucille Ball reportedly hosted many industry parties here, with stars like Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland as guests. The original hardwood floors have been meticulously restored, their warmth enhancing the room’s timeless appeal.

Ornate tilework surrounds the fireplace, providing a dramatic focal point. The room’s layout encourages conversation and relaxation, with cozy seating areas arranged around the hearth.

The living room’s blend of comfort and elegance remains a testament to the home’s enduring charm.

Historic Kitchen With Modern Functionality

While the kitchen retains its original footprint, it has been tastefully updated to meet modern standards without sacrificing its 1920s character. The hand-painted tile countertops and backsplash are original, adding a burst of color and pattern to the space.

Vintage cabinetry and period-appropriate hardware offer a nostalgic feel, while state-of-the-art appliances are seamlessly integrated. According to recent listing descriptions, the kitchen’s unique blend of old and new makes it a favorite among culinary enthusiasts.

A breakfast nook with built-in seating overlooks the garden, providing the perfect spot for morning coffee. The kitchen’s thoughtful design proves that historic homes can adapt to contemporary lifestyles while honoring their past.

Private Study and Library

A quiet study, lined with built-in bookshelves and wood-paneled walls, offered Lucille Ball a private retreat from the spotlight. The room’s original leaded-glass windows cast dappled sunlight across the space, creating a serene atmosphere ideal for reading or writing.

Ball was known to spend hours here, working on scripts or correspondence. The study’s fireplace, also framed with original tilework, adds to the room’s cozy ambiance.

Collectors have noted that some rare first-edition volumes from Ball’s personal library still reside in the home. The room stands as a reminder of the more contemplative side of the famous entertainer.

Elegant Bedrooms With Vintage Flair

The home features several spacious bedrooms, each with its own unique character. The master suite is especially striking, with original hardwood floors, hand-stenciled ceilings, and French doors opening to a private terrace.

Vintage light fixtures and restored period wallpaper add to the room’s romantic vibe. The bathrooms boast more of the home’s signature tilework, with sunken tubs and arched alcoves.

Guests staying in the secondary bedrooms often comment on their quiet, peaceful ambiance. The attention to detail in each room speaks to the era’s emphasis on craftsmanship and comfort.

The Legacy of a Hollywood Icon

Lucille Ball’s former home is not just another Beverly Hills estate; it’s a living piece of Hollywood history. According to property data, homes with celebrity provenance in this area can command premiums of up to 30% over comparable properties.

The house has featured in numerous magazine spreads and television specials, cementing its place in pop culture lore. Fans continue to visit the neighborhood, hoping to catch a glimpse of the home that once belonged to “Lucy.” The preservation of its original features and Ball’s personal touches ensure that her legacy endures, both as a trailblazer in entertainment and as a lover of timeless style.

Recent Renovations and Market Value

The house has undergone careful restoration in recent years, with a focus on preserving its original character while updating essential systems. According to recent real estate listings, the home is currently valued at over $7 million, reflecting both its historical significance and prime location.

Preservation architects have worked closely with local authorities to maintain the home’s authenticity, particularly the irreplaceable tilework and wood details. The home’s market value continues to climb, as buyers seek out properties with genuine history and charm.

The listing has attracted attention from both private collectors and Hollywood insiders. The home’s blend of authenticity, luxury, and star power makes it one of the most coveted properties in Beverly Hills.