Historic Homes for Sale in Los Angeles | Los Angeles historic properties will capture your heart with their unique architectural design and classic allure. These homes offer a glimpse into Los Angeles’ glamorous past and give their residents a chance to relive the era. The offerings include many architectural styles, each with charming character and original details. Revivalist architecture from Victorian, English Tudor, French Normandy, Spanish Colonial, Italianate and Craftsman, in addition to coveted Mid-Century Modern marvels – epitomize beautiful craftsmanship, high-quality materials and striking design.
What Makes A Historic Home?
A historic home is defined as a house built at least 50 years ago. The architecture of the house is also taken into account when determining historical classification. The location of the house can also play a role in whether or not it is considered a historic house. For example, a house located in a Historic District would be more likely to be considered more historical than a house not located in such an area.
An Old House Is Not A Historic House
Just because a home is old doesn’t mean it is automatically historic. There are a few other things that must be considered first. When it comes to historic homes, four main criteria must be met for the house to be considered “historic.”
The first criterion is that the home must be at least 50 years old. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s an important distinction. A house that is 50 years old has had a significant amount of time to become “historic.” It has been through many changes and events and has likely witnessed some important moments in history.
The second criterion is that the home must be associated with someone significant in history. This could be a famous architect, designer, or even a President. Finally, the house must have some connection to someone who impacted the world.
The third criterion is that the home must be unique or have architectural significance. This means that it must be an excellent example of a particular style of architecture or that a famous architect designed it. The home must stand out in some way from all the other homes in the area.
The fourth and final criterion is that the home must have cultural significance. This could mean that it’s associated with a particular ethnic group or social class or has architectural features unique to its region.
If a home meets all four of these criteria, it may be eligible to be registered as a historic home. However, even if a home meets all these criteria, there is no guarantee that it will ultimately be registered. That decision is up to the discretion of the government agency in charge of such things.
Styles of Historic Houses in Los Angeles
Revivalist Styles of architecture are seen throughout many Los Angeles neighborhoods. Where a few homes showcase the classic charm and architectural details of a historic house, offering a glimpse into life from a bygone era.
A Victorian House
These homes were designed during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1900) and evolved from medieval styles. Established craftsmen created impressive details on the interiors and exteriors of these houses, showcasing the opulence of the era and the wealth of the owner. A Victorian house is the opposite of an open floor plan, the idea of which would have been appalling at the time. So instead, the house was split into smaller narrow rooms with high ceilings, each serving a different function, a library, a formal dining room for guests and intimate reading nooks. As a result, the house has a verticality in construction and overall appearance.
Other classic details of a Victorian House include towers and turrets, steeply pitched roofs, distinctively shaped windows (bay, arched, hexagon, round), colorful decorative woodwork, carved decoration, stained glass, ornate staircases, and furnishings such as chandeliers, velvet sofas and heavy tasseled tapestry drapery.
An English Tudor House
An English Tudor house is the perfect blend of charm and elegance. Constructed from around 1900 to 1940, these houses are typically built from brick or stone, with a stucco exterior, half-timbered accents and steeply pitched roofs. Inside, Tudor houses often feature hardwood or stone floors, exposed beams, and large symmetrical rooms. The living room is typically cozy and inviting, with a large fireplace as the focal point. The grounds often feature the main house plus a studio for guests, which would make a perfect home office today.
A Craftsman House
The Craftsman house is characterized by several features that set it apart from other styles of homes. First, Craftsman homes are generally designed with an open floor plan and multiple bedrooms. This allows for greater flexibility in using the space and makes the rooms feel more spacious and connected. Second, Craftsman homes often feature exposed wood beams and natural stone accents. These design elements help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Finally, Craftsman homes are typically built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship—this attention to detail results in a home that is beautiful and built to last. If you’re looking for a home that combines style and function, a Craftsman house may be perfect.
Historic Homes In Designated Districts
A historic district is a neighborhood or area designated by the National Register of Historic Places as having historical significance. A historic district may also be a historic preservation overlay zone (HPOZ), a heritage district, or a conservation district.
The National Register of Historic Places is the United States government’s official list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects worthy of preservation. The purpose of the National Register is to help preserve our nation’s history by identifying and protecting historic places that embody the spirit and ideals of our country. This value should be preserved and protected so that future generations can enjoy it.
Hancock Park
Hancock Park was developed in the early 1920s as an upscale residential neighborhood. Hancock Park, one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Los Angeles, is home to many historic and architecturally significant homes. The area was originally part of Rancho La Brea, which was owned by Antonio Jose Rocha, one of the first settlers of Los Angeles. The Hancock family then developed the area. The neighborhood features a variety of architectural styles, including Spanish Colonial Revival, English Tudor, Art Deco and more. Many of the homes in Hancock Park are expansive mansions, with park-like grounds and gardens that offer a glimpse into the past in a world of inspired living.
Pasadena
Pasadena is a neighborhood in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County, California. The Tongva people once inhabited the area before Pasadena was founded in 1874. The historic houses in Pasadena are some of the most beautiful in Southern California. Many of these homes were built in the early 1900s and are designed in the Craftsman style. These homes are typically one or two stories with a low-pitched roofline and large front porch. They are usually made of wood or stucco and have intricate details like exposed beams and large windows, sometimes utilizing stained glass. If you’re looking for a historic neighborhood with beautiful homes, lush gardens and manicured grounds, Pasadena is a great place to consider.
Angelino Heights
Angelino Heights is one of the first registered historic districts in Los Angeles. The area is known for its Victorian-era residences, considered some of the best-preserved examples of Victorian architecture in Southern California. Many of the houses in Angelino Heights were built between 1886 and 1887. The area was designated a historic district by the City of Los Angeles in 1983. If you’re looking for a historic neighborhood full of charm and character, then Angelino Heights is the perfect place for you!
Spaulding Square
Spaulding Square is a hidden gem in the heart of Hollywood. This beautiful neighborhood is home to many historic properties.These homes were originally built between 1916 and 1926; architect Albert Starr Spaulding developed this eight-block area. With its proximity to the Hollywood Studios, it became a neighborhood of choice for stars and movie moguls alike. The neighborhood was once the residence of Lucille Ball. Today Spaulding Square has been designated a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone.
Whitley Heights
Whitley Heights is one of the most desirable and historic neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The neighborhood sits atop a hill in the Hollywood Hills, which means that residents enjoy stunning panoramas of the area below. The area is also known for its incredible architecture and rich history. Whitley Heights was once home to some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, and it continues to be a popular spot for celebrities and industry insiders. The neighborhood is part of another Historic Preservation Overlay Zone. Whitley Heights is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a luxurious and unique place to call home.
Wilshire Park
Another historic neighborhood in Los Angeles is Wilshire Park. The area was developed in the early 1900s and is home to many historic houses. The neighborhood has been designated as another Historic Preservation Overlay Zone in Los Angeles. The Wilshire Park Homeowners Association works to preserve the character of the neighborhood. The association has helped restore several of the historic homes in the area.
West Adams
The West Adams neighborhood is the oldest in Los Angeles. It was initially settled by Spanish missionaries in the late 18th century and remained a rural area until the early 20th century when it was annexed. In recent years, the neighborhood has undergone a significant transformation, with new businesses and restaurants opening up and the restoration of old Victorian homes. You’ll also find a few Colonial Revival, Queen Anne-style homes and beautifully kept Craftsman homes sprinkled throughout the area. Many of these houses were built in the early 1900s and have been well preserved. Each house has its unique charm and character. It’s no wonder why so many people are drawn to this historic neighborhood. The West Adams neighborhood is a great place to live, work, and play.
LA’s Historic Real Estate
Los Angeles is filled with inspired architecture and has many options where you can explore historic properties. For example, you can visit the Hollyhock House by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. This residence is a departure from his Prairie Style and has been turned into a house museum. These exceptional homes add to the rich romance and pioneering spirit of our past. They seem to be pulled right from the sets of Hollywood’s Silver Screen. Many of these classic homes can be found in character-filled neighborhoods throughout the city from Hancock Park to Los Feliz. If you dream of living in a house from Hollywood’s Golden Age filled with inspiration and memories, a home celebrating LA’s historic legacy may be the perfect place for you. If you would like to create your real estate listings search for a special property or interesting house, contact Beyond Shelter. We would love to help you find current listings and off-market historic homes for sale in Los Angeles.
