Architect Robert Finkelhor’s Own 1930s Cottage Up for Rent in Bel Air

There are two kinds of people in this world. Okay, fine, yes, there are more than two kinds of people, but for the purposes of this particular argument, let’s just say that there are two kinds — those who really like white paint, and those who don’t particularly care for it. If you fall into the latter camp, you might wanna skip this post. But if you’re a member of the former camp, you’ll probably fall in love with this snow-white cottage in Bel Air.

Located near the end of a small cul-de-sac off of Stone Canyon Road, the English country-style residence was originally the home of architect Robert Finkelhor, who designed the two-bedroom cottage in the mid-1930s as a pied-à-terre for himself to stay in while supervising the construction of his nearby projects. These included mansions for Zeppo Marx, directors Robert Z. Leonard and Allan Dwan, and Oscar-winning playwright Norman Krasna, though the Beaux Arts Award-winning architect’s best-known project would have to be the sprawling Toluca Lake estate of entertainer Bob Hope, recently unloaded by supermarket magnate and trophy property collector Ron Burkle for $26 million.

Now available for lease for a monthly rent of $15,000, the 1,647-square-foot cottage has been recently revamped in what its listing describes as “a curated European minimalist style.” Along with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a step-down living room, and formal dining room, the cottage contains a laundry room with full-size washer and dryer, plus a one-car garage.

While numerous original details such as glass-paneled hutches, two fireplaces, built-in niches and shelving, coved half-timber ceilings, French doors, and wood floors, have been preserved, the majority of them, save the hardwood floors and fireplace tile, have been drenched in a coat of white, serving to heighten the impact of the home’s surrounding greenery. Other modern elements introduced include Miele appliances, custom cabinetry, honed Carrera marble, Waterworks fixtures, and a Sonos sound system.

On a tree-filled lot of just under an acre, the pedigreed property is being offered partially furnished or unfurnished. Shane McCoy Fermilia and Hilary Markus of Carolwood Estates hold the listing.