Historic Brentwood Gem With Concert Hall, 8,000-Book Library, and Stunning Grounds
By Dolores Quintana
Alan Kay, widely regarded as one of the “fathers of the personal computer,” and his wife, Bonnie MacBird, a renowned novelist known for her Sherlock Holmes novels, have made a significant decision to sell their iconic John Byer-designed home in Brentwood Heights. The historic property, named The Contrapuntal House after its distinctive Contrapuntal Performance Hall, is a masterpiece of architectural brilliance and artistic expression, embodying old-school Brentwood glamour.
Nestled on a picturesque half-acre in the coveted Brentwood Heights area north of Sunset, the 5,389 square-foot home has been a cherished residence for the couple for 35 years. The listing agent is Matt Witek at Compass. The property is on the market for $6,995,000.
As visitors enter the Contrapuntal House, they are immediately greeted by an expansive living room with soaring, beamed ceilings and skylights, creating an ambiance of openness and natural light. The living room’s centerpiece is a designer fireplace adorned with exquisite Malibu tiles, offering an inviting and sophisticated space for entertainment and relaxation.
The property’s generous layout continues with a spacious dining room featuring a wall of French doors that provide enchanting views of the private garden. An inviting gallery is adjacent to the dining area, ideal for stimulating conversation and media enjoyment.
The five-room primary suite exudes luxury and comfort, with its high ceilings, marble fireplace, and a large walk-in closet. The en-suite bathroom boasts luxurious marble and Malibu tile finishes, with a deep soaking tub, shower, and a private water closet. Connected to the suite is a sunny gym featuring French Orangerie detailing and a Japanese-style Zen retreat, providing an oasis for meditation, massage, or creative inspiration.
Additional living space within the Contrapuntal House includes three more bedrooms, a recreation room, an office, and a charming cottage-style guest house, offering versatile options for guests, living arrangements, or home offices. Thoughtfully designed art storage spaces throughout the home ensure that treasured pieces are well-preserved. The gourmet country kitchen is a delight, bright and inviting, with skylights offering views of the garden and pool. It is well-equipped to cater to any culinary enthusiast’s desires.
However, the true gem of the Contrapuntal House is its namesake Contrapuntal Performance Hall, a meticulously designed and acoustically perfected two-story concert hall and library. This extraordinary space can transform into a refined dining and entertainment area, a dance floor, a performance venue, or a concert hall, making it the epitome of versatility. Over the years, this exquisite hall has hosted luminaries from the music, literary, computer, art, and entertainment worlds, offering unforgettable performances and events.
The upper-level custom-designed library is a book lover’s paradise, capable of housing an astounding collection of over 8,000 books. Alcoves within the library provide cozy reading nooks for relaxation and contemplation. Additionally, a secret bookcase door concealed within the library opens to a transformative space perfect for a children’s playroom or art storage area. The Contrapuntal House stands majestically on its half-acre plot, surrounded by soaring sycamores, mature avocado and fruit trees, and a delightful rose garden. Outdoor entertainment and recreation opportunities abound, with a lighted tennis court and a classic kidney-shaped pool providing ample space for relaxation and enjoyment.
