The only home model and actress Marilyn Monroe ever owned may soon face the wrecking ball.
Situated at 12305 Fifth Helena Drive in Brentwood, the 1920s Spanish hacienda-style bungalow could be demolished by its new owner, according to the Robb Report.
The property gained notoriety in 1962 when Monroe, who was born Norma Jeane Baker, passed away there.
Over the years, it’s become one of LA’s most recognised landmarks.
Though the property’s exterior remains much the same as in 1962, the interiors have seen significant changes.
The kitchen and bathrooms have been updated, and a previously separate guest house is now part of the main building.
Yet, the house still features original aspects such as casement windows and wood-beamed ceilings, evoking its historic charm.
The outside of the property has a spacious swimming pool, a lawn bordered by mature trees, and a citrus orchard.
Despite soaring property values and rampant redevelopment in the area, the house has remained largely untouched, a tribute to its enduring appeal and Monroe’s iconic status.
In 2014, hedge fund manager Dan Lukas and his wife Anne Jarmain purchased the Monroe estate for $7.3 million.
Six months ago, they acquired a larger property in the same neighbourhood for $13 million.
Last month, they quietly sold Monroe’s former home for nearly $8.4 million in cash to an undisclosed buyer.
This new owner has swiftly moved to apply for a demolition permit, which is currently under review by the LA Department of Building and Safety.
Although no official permit has been issued, there’s growing concern that the property will soon be demolished, based on similar situations in the past.
If so, it will join a growing list of historically significant properties that have been lost to redevelopment.
