Singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright's distinctive Laurel Canyon residence in Los Angeles is back on the market, now listed at $2.3 million. This colorful cottage, nestled in a historic artistic enclave, encapsulates a bohemian essence, offering a unique blend of Old Hollywood architectural grandeur and contemporary artistic spirit. The property's vibrant history and quirky charm, combined with its prime Hollywood Hills location, make it a truly exceptional offering in the celebrity real estate market.
Wainwright and his spouse, theater director Jörn Weisbrodt, initially acquired the property in 2016 for $1.45 million. The home was previously listed in 2024 for $2.2 million, attracting numerous offers, including cash bids above the asking price. However, Wainwright ultimately withdrew the listing, deciding he wasn't ready to part with the hillside retreat. The current relisting presents another opportunity for potential buyers to own a piece of Laurel Canyon's storied artistic heritage. Alexandre Anu of Douglas Elliman and Dag Eliason of Hilton & Hyland are representing the property.
Constructed in 1926, this storybook cottage is situated behind secure gates on a dramatic slope, offering panoramic views of the verdant surroundings. Spanning approximately 2,100 square feet, the three-bedroom, four-bathroom residence seamlessly marries its historical architecture with a playful character that has historically drawn musicians and artists to the neighborhood. The home’s distinct personality is evident throughout its design, reflecting the vibrant and creative spirit of its owners and the Laurel Canyon community.
Key architectural details remain prominent, including soaring cathedral-style wooden ceilings and exquisite stained-glass windows. A vintage tiled fireplace, adorned with works by the renowned Arts and Crafts artisan Ernest Batchelder, serves as a focal point in the living space. One of the most captivating features is the octagonal library, boasting floor-to-ceiling bookshelves that provide a perfect sanctuary for reading and contemplation. The kitchen flows into a formal dining room, ideal for intimate gatherings, while multiple balconies offer picturesque outdoor living spaces. Abundant natural light permeates every corner, enhancing the home’s already inspiring atmosphere.
The property's grounds evoke a fairytale-like setting, with lush greenery enveloping charming alfresco dining areas and a serene stone koi pond. A quaint "lovers' bridge" further enhances the romantic and theatrical ambiance of the estate. Adding to its rock-and-roll legacy, the house was once owned by the late Scott Weiland, the charismatic frontman of Stone Temple Pilots, before Wainwright's acquisition, imbuing it with a rich musical history.
This Laurel Canyon gem, with its rich history, unique architectural features, and artistic lineage, offers an unparalleled opportunity to reside in a truly inspiring and colorful home. The deliberate blend of vintage charm and bohemian spirit creates a living space that is both visually stunning and deeply personal, reflecting the creative essence of its inhabitants and the legendary neighborhood it calls home.