REAL ESTATE…with a difference: The Bob Hope Home!

Opposites do attract, sometimes in strange ways. An interesting example is comparing Dolores and Bob Hope’s choices in home design. From their elegant Old Hollywood-styled estate in Toluca Lake, California, they took a 180-degree swing in taste when they designed their Palm Springs volcano house in 1973. Bob and Dolores were married for 69 years – rare for any couple but especially rare for entertainment celebrities. Bob died in 2003 at the age of 100 and Dolores died in 2011 at the age of 102. Though a comedian for a former generation’s taste and with film roles bordering on the much appreciated slapstick of the day, when looking back on his best quotes, it’s apparent that the fruit of his imagination was timeless. Bob Hope was a rare multi-talented individual who excelled as a comedian, actor, singer, dancer, author, and athlete. He will never be forgotten for his annual tours taking entertainment to the troops around the world.

Also timeless is his and Dolores’ Toluca Lake estate that they built in 1939 as an English Traditional and made more contemporary in 1950. This palatial home and grounds is where they lived full time, using the volcano home in Palm Springs for an occasional getaway. Nestled on a beautifully landscaped five acres of mature evergreens, rose gardens and one-hole golf course with sand trap and driving greens, the 14,876 square foot home includes eight bedrooms, eight baths, indoor pool and spa, billiard room, bar, and chef’s kitchen. There is also a guest house, staff quarters, staff offices and large outdoor pool. The private master suite wing has two bedrooms, his-and-her baths and dressing rooms and a shared study. Over the years the home has played host to presidents and a large number of celebrities. 

Owning multiple properties at the time of their passing, the family is slowly puttingthem on the market. Two properties have already been sold and the volcano house is also for sale. This is the first time their permanent estate has been on the market since it was constructed. Priced at $27.5 million.

src: jademillsestates.com