Introduction to Villa Dorada
Hollywood is home to many properties with awe-inspiring A-list connections. However, few can compare with the truly incomparable mansion that has just hit the market in the Outpost Estates, nearly 100 years after it served as the dwelling of the industry’s original Count Dracula.
The Estate’s History
Listed for the first time in more than a half-century, with an asking price of $7.5 million, Villa Dorada is a 1929 Spanish Revival estate that was once rented by legendary actor Bela Lugosi, who was best known for his iconic portrayal of the villainous vampire in the 1931 classic “Dracula.” Since his residence in the extraordinary estate, the property has passed through the hands of many other Hollywood bigwigs—from Oscar-winning songwriter and Frank Sinatra collaborator Jimmy Van Heusen to heiress Elizabeth Stack, daughter of “Unsolved Mysteries” host Robert Stack.
Lugosi’s Residence
Lugosi, a legendary horror actor who died in 1956, resided there in the early 1930s, when he rented the property from the owner, Elizabeth D. Clark, just as his career took off.
Bela Lugosi as Dracula peeking from behind a column. Getty Images
2200 Maravilla Dr,Los Angeles, CA 90068 Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
The living room at Villa Dorata. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
Preservation of Old Hollywood Glamour
Its walls have been privy to all manner of Old Hollywood glamour, yet they have also been meticulously preserved throughout its near-100-year history. Set on a 13,185-square-foot lot along a flat cul-de-sac in the Outpost Estates, one of the Hollywood Hills’ most coveted communities, the home offers sweeping views of Los Angeles, from the Hollywood sign to the Pacific Ocean.
Neighborhood and Location
Over the years, the neighborhood has been home to the likes of Brad Pitt, Charlize Theron, Orlando Bloom, and Winona Ryder, among others. But far from being splashy or over-the-top, the Outpost Estates is one of the most peaceful and scenic areas in Los Angeles, according to Compass listing agent Tom Davila.
Overhead view of Los Angeles from the estate, with a small pond in the foreground and the city lights in the background. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
The living area features original hardwood floors. Getty Images
Multiple terraces offer indoor-outdoor living and views across the city. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
Unique Features of the Estate
The three-level, 7,400-square-foot residence is designed to maximize that feeling of security, while also taking full advantage of its incredible location, with large windows that frame the city’s glittering skyline. Inside are four spacious en suite bedrooms, plus staff quarters with private bedrooms and a living room. While the size and views impress, it’s the historic details that make this home truly special. Each owner has carefully preserved its 1920s charm, from the rare wood-paneled elevator and original intercom system to hand-carved wooden doors, vintage tile work, art deco doorknobs, and period chandeliers.
History of the Home
Through these incredible details, the current homeowner commissioned a history of the home, which has helped to build out the story and strength of this estate, a key part of the sale for agent John Zaffarano.
The multistory property is also incredibly private. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
The Spanish architecture and design details have been carefully preserved. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
Bela Lugosi as Count Dracula in the film Dracula, 1931. Getty Images
Entertainment Spaces
That craftsmanship sings in the home’s entertaining spaces. The estate features a step-down parlor with a built-in bar and guest bath, plus a grand ballroom on the lower level anchored by an oversized fireplace and opening directly to the backyard. Multiple terraces on every floor invite seamless indoor-outdoor living and views across the city.
A Rare Jewel
“This home is a rare jewel, one of the finest examples of the Spanish Revival period, still preserving its original integrity and thoughtful flow. Pristine magnesite floors and authentic details remain intact, honoring the home’s heritage,” notes the third agent on the listing, Kennon Earl.
A dining room with a long table, brown chairs, and views of Los Angeles. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
The property boasts spectacular views of Los Angeles, thanks to its hillside perch. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
A hallway with wood floors, wall sconces, and a large framed black and white photograph of Frank Sinatra. Marc Angeles & Tiffany Angeles | Unlimited Style Photography
Previous Owners
In 1946, Elizabeth Stack purchased the property, where she lived for seven years, before the dwelling was passed to Van Heusen in 1953, four years before he would win the second of his four Academy Awards. As rumor has it, Van Heusen—who was best known for writing Sinatra’s hits “Come Fly With Me,” “Love and Marriage,” and “High Hopes”—regularly hosted Sinatra in the property, with some suggesting that the dwelling may have served as a “bachelor pad” for the duo, along with their other longtime writing partner, Sammy Cahn.
Conclusion
To this day, Villa Dorada remains surrounded by stars, including Pitt, who recently purchased a Spanish-style home nearby for roughly $12 million from Dave Keuning, lead guitarist for The Killers. For buyers, Villa Dorada represents a chance to own a living piece of Hollywood history. With its blend of cinematic legacy, architectural artistry, and unmatched privacy, the estate offers a rare opportunity to step into a lifestyle once reserved for screen legends.
FAQs
Q: How much is the asking price of Villa Dorada?
A: The asking price of Villa Dorada is $7.5 million.
Q: Who was the first famous resident of Villa Dorada?
A: The first famous resident of Villa Dorada was Bela Lugosi, who rented the property in the early 1930s.
Q: What style of architecture does Villa Dorada feature?
A: Villa Dorada features Spanish Revival architecture.
Q: How many bedrooms does Villa Dorada have?
A: Villa Dorada has four spacious en suite bedrooms, plus staff quarters with private bedrooms and a living room.
Q: Is Villa Dorada located in a private neighborhood?
A: Yes, Villa Dorada is located in the private Outpost Estates neighborhood, which is zoned to prohibit tour buses.
