Los Angeles is full of gleaming new mansions with walls of glass, infinity pools, and every gadget you can imagine. But while the latest builds might dazzle with square footage and tech, they often lack the kind of personality you’ll find in a home that’s been standing for nearly a century.
For architecture lovers and history buffs alike, L.A.’s older estates offer something more enduring: a story written into their beams, tilework, and gardens. Not to mention undeniable charm and craftmanship — one that’s nearly impossible to replicate nowadays.
Take La Casa De Flores in Mandeville Canyon, a 1929 Spanish Revival designed by John Byers — the architect whose work defined Southern California’s romantic style. With hand-painted murals, a brick wine cellar, and a 55-foot pool, it has all the modern comforts without losing the magic of its old-world soul. Or head to Bel Air, where a 1930s English manor overlooks the Bel Air Country Club fairways, serving up countryside charm just minutes from Sunset Boulevard.
The city’s character homes are scattered across every neighborhood, each with its own quirks and pedigree. And they stand out with their craftsmanship, architectural detail, and storied pasts that no modern build can replicate.
Here are some of standout century-old L.A. homes that prove new isn’t always better.
La Casa De Flores: A Spanish Revival home with a timeless soul
Built in 1929 by John Byers, the architect who defined Southern California’s Spanish Revival style, La Casa De Flores in Lower Mandeville Canyon is the kind of estate that proves history and luxury can go hand in hand.
Recently listed for $12.49 million, the 6,308-square-foot residence has five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and a character that no modern spec build could ever hope to recreate.
La Casa De Flores: A Spanish Revival home with a timeless soul
Byers was known for homes that aged gracefully, and this one lives up to that reputation. From its hand-painted murals to a restored brick wine cellar, the house is filled with carefully preserved details that root it firmly in its 1920s origins.
Yet, it doesn’t feel stuck in the past — modern updates and expansive living spaces make it perfectly suited for today’s lifestyle.
Outside, the property spans nearly an acre of private grounds, where manicured gardens bloom year-round and a 55-foot pool stretches out like a resort centerpiece. Multiple patios and outdoor dining areas create the perfect flow between indoor and outdoor living, while the location — tucked in a secluded canyon but minutes from Brentwood’s shops and restaurants — offers both privacy and convenience.
An English Manor in Bel Air with golf course views
Just when you think Bel Air is all about modern megamansions, along comes this 1930s English manor that feels like it’s been transported straight from the English countryside.
Behind private gates on Bellagio Road, the 7,830-square-foot home overlooks the Bel Air Country Club fairways and offers a level of old-world elegance that’s rarely seen in newer builds. Listed at $17.988 million, it’s a showpiece of history with every modern comfort baked in.
An English Manor in Bel Air with golf course views
The six-bedroom estate impresses immediately with a sweeping motor court and stately façade. Inside, vaulted ceilings with exposed beams, intricate tilework, and grand fireplaces keep the home’s historical soul intact. At the same time, thoughtful upgrades — like a bespoke wine cellar, marble spa baths, and a two-story boutique-style closet — elevate it into the realm of luxury living.
Set on over three-quarters of an acre, the manicured grounds include a 15-foot waterfall and tranquil outdoor spaces designed for both entertaining and quiet escape. The effect is less “Hollywood glamour” and more “European retreat,” though the Sunset Strip is just minutes away.
A Spanish Colonial Revival with star appeal in the Hollywood Hills
In the exclusive Outpost Estates neighborhood, a 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival has been given new life, without taking away from its old beauty. Listed at $8.195 million, the estate — which served as the longtime home of The Price is Right’s Bob Barker — balances nearly a century of history with a fresh, modern restoration.
The home’s architectural pedigree runs deep. Before the current structure was built, the site was home to “The Outpost,” the adobe residence of Gen. Harrison Gray Otis, publisher of the Los Angeles Times.
That 1880s adobe was eventually replaced by the Spanish Colonial that stands today — a house that has since become a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s rich past.
A Spanish Colonial Revival with star appeal in the Hollywood Hills
The charming abode was also the longtime residence of TV legend Bob Barker, who called the property home for over 50 years. More recently, designer Julia Dempster purchased the estate with the goal of restoring and elevating its original character — and the results speak for themselves. Original Spanish-style details now pair seamlessly with striking modern upgrades, ensuring the home’s legacy continues well into the future.
Set atop one of the most historically significant lots in Los Angeles, this Spanish Colonial proves that true character can’t be replicated — only cared for, restored, and passed down to the next custodian.
An elegant Paul R. Williams classic in Eagle Rock
If the walls of this house could talk, they’d probably be whispering Old Hollywood secrets over a vintage cocktail.
A sprawling estate on Eagle Rock’s historic Hill Drive — once frequented by stars and tucked away behind lush landscaping — is now on the market for $7 million. But this isn’t just another fancy listing.
Dubbed “The Gatsby,” the property is a rare Paul R. Williams-designed showpiece, painstakingly revived by local developer Gary Mkrtichyan of Opus Builders, who grew up just a few doors down.
An elegant Paul R. Williams classic in Eagle Rock
The 1930s Spanish Colonial Revival home brims with architectural pedigree, featuring all the hallmarks of Williams’ signature style: vaulted, hand-stenciled ceilings, graceful archways, custom woodwork, and an eye for symmetry that feels both grand and intimate.
And while it has the bones of a classic, it’s also been outfitted with high-end finishes and modern comforts in all the right places. Think La Cornue range, luxury appliances, and a gold-plated soaking tub, because why not?
Oh, and did we mention the hidden Prohibition-era speakeasy in the basement? Yep, that’s still intact, complete with fireplace, built-in bar, and its own secret exit to the backyard. If you’re a lover of vintage glam, historic homes, or just want to host the kind of parties Gatsby himself would envy, this one’s worth a closer look.
A beautifully restored 1930s Italian villa in Beverly Hills
Okay, so this one might not celebrate its centennial this year or the next, but this early 1930s Italian villa more than deserves its spot on our list.
With a coveted 90210 zip code, the Beverly Hills property sits on a 25,000-square-foot lot on the famed Maple Drive. Originally built in the 1930s, the Maple Drive house has been heavily updated to pair its timeless elegance with more modern luxury additions.
A timeless gem designed by Beverly Hills Hotel architect Elmer Grey
Contrasting Los Angeles’ typical sleek, glass mansions and contemporary new builds in the best way, this historic home in Los Angeles’s Country Club Park — dubbed the Baker House — is a circa 1923 historical gem that exudes elegance, character, and charm at every turn.
And for good reason: the house was designed by renowned architect Elmer Grey, best known for building the Beverly Hills Hotel, the Huntington Library, the Pasadena Playhouse, and Wattles Mansion.
A timeless gem designed by Beverly Hills Hotel architect Elmer Grey
The home showcases Grey’s distinctive design philosophy and retains plenty of period-specific elements. The property features detailed ceilings, leaded glass windows, ornate wrought iron accents, and the iconic living room fireplace.
Adding extra notes of drama and sophistication, bold reds and greens grace the walls, mixed with equally daring curtains and textiles that have a dazzling effect in highlighting the home’s historic details.
Most notably, the ornate ceilings steal the eye and give the rooms a note of grandeur.
A storybook house filled with salvaged treasures
Originally built in 1930, this home is a whimsical mix of storybook architecture infused with Spanish, Art Deco, and old-world farmhouse elements.
Step through the gated entry, and you’ll find yourself in a fairy tale setting, complete with a turret, archways, and stained glass windows.
The house is also a treasure trove of salvaged items and artistic touches. With doors from the old Los Angeles Athletic Club, a bar and headboard from Hearst’s collection at San Simeon, and even a backyard fence made from old railway ties, every detail of this home tells a story.
A storybook house filled with salvaged treasures
Built in 1930, this enchanting home sprawls over 4,234 square feet and features 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and plenty of unique amenities. From its gated front yard with lush landscaping to the spiral staircase and hidden rooms, every corner of this house tells a story.
Especially since the property’s longtime owners have spent the last 60 years sourcing materials spanning from around Los Angeles, the Central Coast, and across Europe – all to create a home that exudes curated, refined character and unique craftsmanship.
Glendale’s first historic home has Spanish charm and landmark status
Glendale might be known for its suburban sprawl today, but there aren’t that many homes that attest to its past. This character-rich home dates back all the way to 1929, and stands out as the city’s first official historic home.
Built by the inventor of the armored car, this Spanish villa quickly earned landmark status — and for good reason. With 7,711 square feet, eight bedrooms, and eleven bathrooms, it’s a sprawling estate filled with character and history.
Listed at $5.99 million, it’s as relevant today as it was nearly a century ago. And it comes with some celebrity pedigree to boot.
Glendale’s first historic home has Spanish charm and landmark status
Over the years, the villa has had its share of notable owners, including actor Mario Lopez, who infused the property with modern updates while honoring its original Spanish Revival charm.
From arched doorways and wrought-iron accents to expansive living areas designed for both family life and entertaining, the home captures the romance of 1920s architecture with all the conveniences of a contemporary retreat.
Set on nearly three-quarters of an acre, the grounds are just as impressive as the interiors. Mature landscaping, generous patios, and outdoor gathering spaces give it a secluded, resort-like feel — all while being steps away from city life.
A Wallace Neff Tudor cottage on the former grounds of a legendary hotel
Perched high above Pasadena, this 1926 Tudor Revival cottage carries all the storybook charm you’d expect from architect Wallace Neff — and then some.
One of just 13 original homes built on the historic Huntington Hotel grounds, it remains a rare survivor from an era when the hotel was a hub of Old Hollywood society. Recently listed for $5.9 million, the residence is as much a piece of Pasadena history as it is a luxury home.
Originally built for hotelier Daniel M. Linnard, the house has been lovingly updated over the years while preserving its defining details: steep gables, leaded glass windows, and Neff’s signature craftsmanship. Inside, the home has been refreshed with modern comforts, yet the scale and warmth remain true to its 1920s roots.
A Wallace Neff Tudor cottage on the former grounds of a legendary hotel
Beyond its timeless architecture, what sets this property apart is its setting. With 380-degree views stretching across the city and beyond, it offers a perspective few homes can match. Its location on the old hotel grounds adds another layer of historic allure, making it one of Pasadena’s most character-rich addresses.
For anyone who values both architectural significance and timeless views, this Neff-designed cottage stands out as a piece of California’s golden era.
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