Gibbons-Del Rio Residence

Gibbons-Del Rio Residence
Gibbons-Del Rio Residence, photo by Charles J. Fisher, 2013

Gibbons-Del Rio Residence, Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument #1038

Built: 1930  Declared: 06/26/2013

Built in 1930, this stunning residence in Santa Monica Canyon is a showcase of Streamline Moderne architecture and an important landmark in the history of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Significant interior elements include a large interior staircase, steel balustrades, Modernist style fireplaces, and large smooth plaster walls. The residence was designed by architect Douglas Honnold (1901-1974) and movie set designer Cedric Gibbons (1893-1960). Gibbons was one of the most important movie set designers of Hollywood’s Golden Age, serving as MGM’s Art Director from 1924-1956 and winning eleven Academy Awards. In 1930, he married Mexican actress Dolores del Rio (1905-1983) and began work on their residence. After several owners, the property was later purchased in 1981 by attorney and developer Ira E. Yellin (1940-2002), remembered today for his civic leadership and historic preservation efforts, restoring the Bradbury Building (HCM #6), Grand Central Market, and the Million Dollar Theater.