‘Rug Curator’ Emmy Ellison Lists Colorful Spanish-Style Home in Los Feliz

As founder of L.A.-based de Maroc, Emmy Ellison is probably best known for traveling to Morocco to handpick exclusive artisan-crafted rugs for her discerning clientele. And nowhere is her eclectic design aesthetic more evident than her personal domain — a stylishly decorated 1920s residence tucked into the hills of Los Feliz that just popped up on the market, asking a speck under $8 million.

Though that’s around $3 million more than the North Carolina native paid for the place a little more than six years ago, back in spring 2016, the 1920s Spanish Colonial Revival spread has since been “revived to perfection,” per the listing. Ellison and interior designer Barrie Benson worked together to add their own special flair to the property, which is spotlighted by a five-bedroom, six-bath house featuring just over 5,600 square feet of visually enticing living space.

Spread across three levels, there are modern amenities mixed with period details like arched windows and striking wood-beamed ceilings, plus bold color combinations and Spanish-inspired touches inspired by Ellison’s travels abroad. French doors throughout also provide a wealth of seamless indoor/outdoor environs.

Resting on over a quarter-acre parcel, and secured by walls and gates, the creamy stucco and terracotta-roof structure is fronted by a private courtyard flanked by hot pink bougainvillea. From there, an elaborately carved wood front door notched into a turreted entryway opens into a traditional foyer leading to a formal fireside living room resting beneath an exposed wood-beam ceiling and sporting a wall of peachy built-in bookshelves, which connects to a casual den.

Other highlights include a spacious formal dining room displaying a whitewashed beam ceiling and custom hand-painted Fromental Rockface mural depicting the mountainscapes of California, and a gourmet kitchen complete with eye-catching lilac cabinetry, a center island, high-end stainless appliances and an adjacent breakfast nook.

Upstairs, the sumptuous master retreat has windows overlooking the lush grounds and a walk-in closet, as well as a spa-like bath boasting dual vanities, a relaxing soaking tub and glass-encased shower; and elsewhere is a lower-level space hosting a family/screening room painted in vivid shades of blue and green.

Outdoors, the picturesque backyard includes a lengthy rectangular pool, along with several spots ideal for al fresco lounging and entertaining. There’s also a three-car garage, and a guesthouse with bath that’s currently being used as an art studio.

The listing is held by Jackie Smith and Rodney Williams II of Compass.