A Stylish Streamline Moderne by William Kesling
A rare opportunity for the modern collector and Hollywood history enthusiast, an original architectural home by William Kesling, the celebrated American designer whose Streamline Moderne residences helped define Los Angeles’ early modernist landscape. This classic property stands as one of the finest surviving examples of Kesling’s work. Previously owned by Allee Willis, this Streamline Moderne home blends aerodynamic curves, Art Deco influences and the timeless “ocean-liner” silhouette capture the legendary architectural style.
Hollywood’s Creative Past Lives Here
Positioned moments from major studios, the home quickly became a gathering place for Hollywood’s creative set. It’s true cultural chapter began in 1980, when it was purchased by Ms. Willis, the two-time Grammy winning, Emmy and Tony nominated songwriter and art director whose boundary pushing talent shaped generations of music lovers. Willis preserved the architectural purity of Kesling’s vision, adding her now-famous baby-pink exterior, and a thoughtful restoration honoring the home’s original Streamline Moderne architecture.
A Hub of Iconic Music and Legendary Gatherings
Within these walls, Willis wrote some of the most celebrated songs of the 20th century, including “September” and “Boogie Wonderland” for Earth, Wind & Fire, “Neutron Dance” by The Pointer Sisters and “I’ll Be There for You,” the globally recognized theme song for the long running tv show, Friends. A state-of-the-art music studio hosted icons such as James Brown, Bob Dylan and Cyndi Lauper, while the home itself became a legendary venue for her immersive themed soirées. Cher, Joni Mitchell and many more filled these rooms during her famously exuberant gatherings, events so distinctive they were covered in People, Life, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and Rolling Stone.
Artistic Expression in Every Corner
An avid vintage mid century modern collector and multidisciplinary artist, Willis filled the residence with sculptural works, paintings and pop culture artifacts from the ’50s through the ’80s, transforming it into a living expression of her creativity. Outside, the whimsical ’50s inspired grounds continue the narrative, offering towering palms, a bowling-ball garden, private sand beach and a newly built poolside shower. Listed by Sally Forster Jones, Christopher Stefanacci and Stacy Astor, Compass.
Don’t miss the chance to view this Allee Willis Streamline Moderne Home by William Kesling. Contact us at 323-745-1160 to schedule a private showing or email livebeyond@beyondshelter.com. Find more Los Angeles Mid Century Modern houses on our map search. If you’re ready to sell your home, Beyond Shelter is here to partner with you. Through our personalized Ready. Set. Show. Plan, we will prepare your home for showtime and maximize its value in the marketplace. Find out more about our Seller experience here.
FAQ's | IN THE DETAILS – THE MOMENTS THAT MATTER
What makes this William Kesling home a significant example of Streamline Moderne architecture?
The residence is a rare portfolio piece by William Kesling, one of Los Angeles’ most influential designers of the Streamline Moderne era. Known for sleek aerodynamic lines, Art Deco influences and an “ocean-liner” silhouette, the home embodies the defining characteristics of the style.
Why is this property closely associated with Allee Willis and her creative legacy?
The home became iconic in 1980 when acquired by Allee Willis, the Grammy-winning songwriter and art director behind hits such as “September,” “Boogie Wonderland” and the Friends theme song. Willis restored the house while preserving its Streamline Moderne integrity, transforming it into a creative laboratory where music, art and design converged. Her legendary parties, star-studded guest lists and on-site studio sessions cemented the property as a cultural touchstone in Hollywood history.
What unique features distinguish this Allee Willis Streamline Moderne residence today?
Set within whimsical ’50s-inspired grounds, the home features a bowling-ball garden, private sand beach, towering palms and a new poolside shower designed for contemporary entertaining. Inside, its original William Kesling architecture remains intact, complemented by the artistic imprint of Ms. Willis, who filled the home with sculpture, paintings and pop-culture collectibles. Together, the architecture and creative history make this property a one-of-a-kind Streamline Moderne classic.
