Historic Jones-Smith Design Transformed into a Showstopper, Selling at a Premium
By Dolores Quintana
Hunter Schafer, the “Euphoria” actress and model, emerged as the victor in a fierce competition for a 1950s residence in the upscale Brentwood neighborhood, as reported by The Robb Report. The modest 2,100-square-foot structure, nestled high in the Brentwood hills, elicited enthusiasm from multiple buyers, ultimately fetching nearly $3.9 million. This price exceeded the property’s recent listing amount by nearly $200,000, translating to a substantial $1,847 per square foot.
The property’s allure is undeniable. A product of Brentwood’s innovative housing co-op, the Mutual Housing Association, the house boasts a co-design by celebrated modernist architect A. Quincy Jones and his occasional collaborator, Whitney R. Smith. Concealed from view, the home is discreetly located at the end of a lengthy, winding driveway, offering seclusion and tranquility.
Over the years, neglect and misguided remodels had left the Jones-Smith design in a state of disrepair. However, HabHouse, a dedicated real estate development firm specializing in architectural restoration, recognized its potential. Acquiring the property for $2.3 million, HabHouse undertook a meticulous transformation, breathing new life into the home. The result is a remarkable showpiece, reminiscent of midcentury aesthetics, featuring Douglas fir built-in cabinetry, redwood tongue-and-groove siding, and exposed concrete blocks.
The sloped-roof structure is accompanied by an attached carport and a parking space capable of accommodating two vehicles. Inside, an inviting entry foyer descends into a den with a striking wood-burning brick fireplace at its center. The adjacent living and dining area connects to a galley kitchen equipped with an eat-in island and vintage-style appliances. Generous expanses of glass open to various patios, providing panoramic treetops and mountain vistas.
A separate wing houses the primary suite, featuring a closet and a bath with a shower. Two additional bedrooms share a bathroom, and the house also includes an extra bath and a laundry room. The fenced backyard offers a grassy lawn bordered by an expansive patio, ideal for outdoor relaxation and dining. Additionally, a hot tub is nestled in the center of the patio, and there is ample space to incorporate a swimming pool