Unique Midcentury Modern ‘Treehouse’ Up for Grabs Near the Sunset Strip

Always wanted to settle into a crimson-colored bathtub that appears to float over the bustling metropolis below — all while ensconced in a midcentury modern oasis resembling the legendary “Swiss Family Robinson” treehouse? Then your idyllic home awaits in the prime Hollywood Hills, just steps from the Sunset Strip and a couple blocks from West Hollywood. Originally crafted by architect Douglas A. Brown, and enhanced by additional designers through the years, this three-bedroom, four-bath residence has remained in the same family since it was completed in 1952. Now it’s available for the first time, asking $1.9 million.

“It’s a very dramatic, architectural and sophisticated home, yet simultaneously so warm and comfortable,” says listing agent Maureen Erbe of Deasy Penner Podley. “It is just above the Sunset Strip and Doheny, in the center of the city, but feels miles away and is extremely private. This house will appeal to any lover of architecture who wants to be close to the city, yet seemingly far away.”

Originally commissioned by Gary and Enid Freund, the adventurous couple were seeking a place to display an eclectic collection of art, furniture and personal treasures culled from their extensive travels. Three children were subsequently added to the mix, so they enlisted the architecture firms Liberstudio, and Matlin & Dvoretzky to expand and remodel their space. The result? A dramatic cantilevered sunken living room and a spacious master bedroom suite; the formerly white and boxy stucco exterior also was replaced with earth-toned wood siding to better blend into the surrounding treetops.

Nestled into a steep hillside, on a heavily wooded 0.12-acre parcel of land, the house features 2,500-plus square feet of living space on two levels rife with artisan stained glass, original built-ins and wood paneling, hardwood floors and walls of glass for a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Among the main-level highlights: the aforementioned living room, which boasts corner windows, a floor-to-ceiling wood panel fireplace with an elevated brick hearth, and a family room sporting another massive brick fireplace and glass sliders that open to an expansive deck with a spa.

A striking “floating” staircase leads upstairs, where a lofty master retreat opens to a wraparound balcony offering picturesque views. Then there’s that retro bath perched atop L.A. — with its fanciful bright red accents apparent in the tub, shower, sink, countertops and even the light switch panel. Talk about living the high life!

The listing agents are Maureen Erbe, Henry Blackham and Bonnie Matthews of Deasy Penner Podley.