The historic Alfred Newman House in Los Angeles, once owned by Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton, has been listed and subsequently removed from the market multiple times this year. The midcentury-modern residence, designed by Lloyd Wright in 1948, was most recently listed for $10.4 million before being taken off the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) on September 30 without a sale.
Keaton, known for her love of historic architecture, purchased the property in 2007. She undertook a significant restoration of the landmark home. The property was initially listed by Keaton in 2010 for $13.25 million. It eventually sold in 2020 for $9.25 million, according to data from Redfin.
Key Takeaways
- Diane Keaton's former home, the Alfred Newman House, was recently on the market.
- The property was listed for $10.4 million before being removed on September 30.
- Keaton acquired the home in 2007 and led a major restoration effort.
- The residence was designed by Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright.
- It features five bedrooms and spans 4,400 square feet on 1.4 acres.
The Alfred Newman House History and Design
The Alfred Newman House was completed in 1948. Lloyd Wright, the son of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, designed the residence. Wright built the house for Oscar-winning composer Alfred Newman, known for his work on films such as How the West Was Won and All About Eve.
The home's architecture is notable for its brick-and-concrete construction. It features a steeply pitched roof, which contrasts with many typical midcentury designs. This distinctive roofline is a signature element of the property.
Property Details
- Architect: Lloyd Wright
- Year Built: 1948
- Original Owner: Alfred Newman (composer)
- Size: 4,400 square feet
- Bedrooms: 5
- Lot Size: 1.4 acres
Diane Keaton's Renovation Efforts
During her ownership from 2007 to 2020, Diane Keaton played a crucial role in the home's preservation and modernization. She specifically oversaw a significant renovation of the kitchen. Additionally, Keaton led the restoration of the home’s custom woodwork and built-in furnishings.
These custom elements are considered architectural hallmarks. They reflect the design philosophy Lloyd Wright inherited from his father. Keaton also personalized the primary bedroom, which occupies the entire second floor, transforming it into an open loft space.
"Keaton had a well-documented love for historic architecture, buying and flipping numerous landmark residences throughout her lifetime," an industry observer noted about her passion for such properties.
Market Activity Since 2020
After Keaton sold the property in 2020 for $9.25 million, the new owner decided to list it again this year. In February, the 1.4-acre estate was offered for $12.9 million. However, this listing was quickly removed from the MLS.
According to Zillow, the property was then re-listed twice more, each time with price adjustments. The most recent asking price was $10.4 million, with Frank Langen at Compass as the listing agent. The home was taken off the market completely on September 30, 2025, without finding a buyer.
Lloyd Wright's Architectural Legacy
Lloyd Wright (1890–1978) was a prominent American architect and landscape architect. He was the eldest son of Frank Lloyd Wright. Lloyd Wright developed his own distinct style, often incorporating Mayan Revival and Art Deco influences. His work frequently emphasized the integration of buildings with their natural surroundings, a principle learned from his father but interpreted uniquely.
Keaton's Previous Architectural Projects
The Alfred Newman House was not Diane Keaton's only venture into restoring Lloyd Wright's designs. She demonstrated a clear passion for the architect's work. In the 1990s, Keaton acquired another significant property by the younger Wright: the 1928 Samuel Novarro Residence.
This dramatic Mayan Revival style home is located in Los Feliz. Keaton also undertook a major restoration of this property. She collaborated with architect Josh Schweitzer on that project. The Samuel Novarro Residence was later listed on the market in 2018 for just under $4.3 million.
Keaton's involvement in these projects highlights her commitment to preserving and enhancing architectural masterpieces. Her efforts often brought renewed attention to these significant properties, which were designed by a notable figure in American architecture.
- 1990s: Keaton buys and restores the 1928 Samuel Novarro Residence by Lloyd Wright.
- 2007: Keaton acquires the 1948 Alfred Newman House by Lloyd Wright.
- 2010: Lists Alfred Newman House for $13.25 million.
- 2020: Alfred Newman House sells for $9.25 million.
- 2025: Alfred Newman House re-listed multiple times, most recently for $10.4 million, before being removed from the market.
The repeated listing and removal of the Alfred Newman House from the market reflect the fluctuating nature of high-value real estate. Despite its architectural significance and celebrity provenance, finding the right buyer at a specific price point can present challenges.
Real estate experts suggest that properties with unique architectural characteristics often attract a niche market. This can sometimes lead to longer listing periods or multiple price adjustments as sellers seek to align with buyer expectations. The recent market activity indicates a complex interplay of valuation, demand, and the unique appeal of historic homes.