A Piece of Hollywood History: The Unique Midcentury Modern Home in Palm Desert
- Wednesday, October 16, 2024
A remarkable midcentury modern home, with a fascinating past, is now available in Palm Desert, Calif., at an asking price of $1.2 million. Located at 73498 Joshua Tree Street, this two-bedroom ranch holds a special place in Hollywood history as the former primary residence of the legendary actor William Boyd. Known for his iconic portrayal of cowboy hero Hopalong Cassidy in over 60 Western dramas filmed between 1935 and 1948, Boyd teamed up with architect Charles W. Doty in 1955 to design and construct this extraordinary 1,892-square-foot home.
This stunning property not only boasts an illustrious heritage but also serves as a time capsule, showcasing original details that have been meticulously preserved over the years. The post-and-beam ceilings, a striking salt-and-pepper terrazzo fireplace, and custom screen doors all contribute to the authentic charm of this midcentury gem.
One of the remarkable features of Boyd's former residence is the presence of many custom decor pieces, which still grace the home to this day. Notably, the metal screens with an art deco design featuring the initials "HC" for Hopalong Cassidy remain intact, adding a touch of nostalgia and character to the space, according to listing agent Niko Esposito.
Alongside these cherished mementos, the house also showcases unique architectural elements that define the era. From its distinctive boomerang shape, with each bedroom at opposite ends of the house, to a vibrant pink bathtub and iconic midcentury breeze-block accent walls, this home encapsulates the essence of midcentury design.
Furthermore, this extraordinary residence surprises visitors with some less apparent features, such as the absence of windows in the front of the house. However, an intriguing explanation awaits those curious enough to seek it.
If you are captivated by the allure of Hollywood's golden era and appreciate the timeless elegance of midcentury modern design, this remarkable property in Palm Desert is a must-see opportunity. Experience living within a one-of-a-kind home with a rich history, while surrounded by its original, meticulously maintained features.
Don't miss out on this chance to own a piece of Hollywood history. Contact us today to schedule your private viewing.
A Piece of Architectural History in Palm Desert
The house, previously owned by the Boyds, has a fascinating backstory. According to rumors, the Boyds were known nudists, which could be the reason why there are no main windows on the front of the house and why a privacy wall surrounds part of the pool.
Now, this architecturally significant home, with its celebrity ties, may be eligible for a historic designation. Once designated, the owner can apply for the Mills Act, a program that offers substantial property tax savings and adds value to the home.
Even without the historic designation, the desert abode still has plenty to offer. It boasts a long list of recent upgrades, including a new roof, AC units, solar panels, and a remodeled saltwater pool.
The location of the third-acre lot is also worth mentioning. Situated in the sought-after South Palm Desert neighborhood, it provides easy access to hiking trails and golf courses. Additionally, it is within walking distance to the vibrant El Paseo District, which offers a multitude of fantastic restaurants, shopping opportunities, and art galleries.
This captivating piece of real estate is truly a gem in Palm Desert.
A version of this story was published on Realtor.com, a reputable real estate and rentals site. Realtor.com not only offers homes for sale but also provides rental listings in various locations such as Scottsdale apartments, Austin apartments, Tampa apartments, and more.
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