The “Emily in Paris” star and her husband, director Charlie McDowell, purchased the historic property in 2021 for US$3.9 million from fellow actress Kristen Wiig, according to Mansion Global.
Built in 1947, the 3,425-square-foot residence is recognised as part of the prestigious Case Study House program, which featured innovative designs by leading post-World War II architects creating model homes for America’s growing middle class.
According to the listing, the four-bedroom house showcases classic midcentury architectural elements including post-and-beam construction, minimalist lines, and extensive use of wood and glass throughout the interior.
Among the home’s distinctive features is a living room centered around a brick floor-to-ceiling fireplace, pitched ceilings, hardwood floors, and an open-plan layout that epitomizes midcentury design principles.
The property’s indoor-outdoor living concept is enhanced by glass sliding doors that open to a yard featuring a pool deck surrounded by sycamore and eucalyptus trees, plus a covered patio with a poolside bar.
During their ownership, Collins and McDowell hired designer Emily Farnham to thoughtfully renovate the historic home while preserving its architectural integrity.
The couple also restored the concrete floors that were part of the original structure.
The home holds historical significance as it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Though not initially commissioned by the Case Study program, it was later added to the collection because it aligned with the program’s design principles.
Originally designed by father and son architects Kemper Normand and Kemper Normand Jr., the house has seen some modifications over the years, including an expansion of approximately 600 square feet and the addition of a fourth bedroom.
Ted Clark and Heather Lillard of Compass represented Collins and McDowell in the sale, while William Baker of the Agency represented the buyer, an LLC registered by a local wealth manager.
