In early 2022, Michael ‘Flea’ Balzary, renowned bassist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, decided to sell his distinctive architectural property located in the La Crescenta foothills of Los Angeles for US$9.8 million.
This decision came after acquiring a $14 million residence in the mountains above Beverly Hills and maintaining a secluded home in Malibu’s prestigious gated community.
Fast forward to two years later, Balzary’s property, nestled near the community of Glendale, has hit the market again, this time with a price tag just shy of US$7 million, according to the Robb Report.
Despite the price drop, the property still commands a significant premium over the $4.3 million Balzary paid for it in 2018, when he purchased it from contemporary artists Lari Pittman and Roy Dowell.
Enhancements to the estate include an 81sq m addition completed in 2021, alongside the introduction of a pool and cabin in the preceding year.
Positioned about 32km north of downtown Los Angeles, the estate is distinguished by its hilltop location surrounded by a carefully arranged succulent garden that borders the Angeles National Forest.
A lengthy driveway leads to two primary residences: a modern main house designed by Los Angeles architect Michael Maltzan in 2009 and a 1950s dwelling created by the celebrated modernist architect Richard Neutra.
The estate also boasts a unique redwood cabin, an outdoor cinema pavilion, and expansive views that capture the surrounding mountains and city lights.
The main house, celebrated for its architectural significance and featured in Architectural Record, encircles a central courtyard and is acclaimed for its innovative design, earning several accolades from the American Institute of Architects.
Within its walls, the main residence houses a primary bedroom complete with a unique curvilinear bath, alongside an office, a den, and extensive built-in storage.
Outdoors, a 15m lap pool and a movie pavilion with a windscreen and catering kitchen offer luxurious amenities.
The original house, known as the ‘Dorothy Serulnic Residence,’ provides 125sq m of living space, including two bedrooms, a full bath, and original Neutra-designed features.
The property, marketed as a mid-century gem in Los Angeles, is represented by Branden and Rayni Williams of The Beverly Hills Estates, and Sherri Rogers and Anthony Stellini of Compass.
