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August 3rd, 2022 at 11:00 am

deck area with city view at former Home of The Doors’ John Densmore

This Tudor-inspired home presents a rare opportunity to live on the crest of fabled Appian Way in storied Laurel Canyon, overlooking the vast expanse of Los Angeles.

Built in 1938 as one of the canyon’s early homes, it was previously owned by The Doors’ drummer John Densmore, whose band is said to have rehearsed downstairs.

Famous past Laurel Canyon neighbors include silver-screen stars Ginger Rogers, Errol Flynn, Laurence Olivier, and Mary Astor, as well as singers Carole King and Joni Mitchell.

dining table near large windows letting in natural light and los angeles views

The magical setting of this Hollywood Hills retreat on a large lot allows a peaceful escape from city life. The exterior retains much of its original charm, which belies the breezy, light-filled, renovated interior.

Susan K. Sanford in our Beverly Hills office is listing agent for the three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom house at 8912 Appian Way, priced at $2,199,000.

View of side of house and city of los angeles

180-degree panoramic view

Upon passing through the front door, there is a spectacular south-facing 180-degree panoramic view from downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean. The stunning vista expands the home’s interior to the glistening city below, the ocean, Santa Catalina Island and beyond. The evenings deliver a mesmerizing spectacle of shimmering city lights.

The open entertaining areas flow onto the large wood deck, where a grand eucalyptus tree creates a canopy over the treehouse-like setting. The kitchen has been updated with modern appliances, and an HVAC system assures year-round comfort.

Living room of former home of The Doors’ John Densmore with large windows that overlook city of LA

Exterior features and amenities

Two vehicles can be parked in the carport. Fantastic walks and hikes beckon in all directions. Down the hill one way are the iconic Love Street and Canyon County Store, and down the other way are the famous Sunset Strip boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife hot spots, including Soho House, Whisky a Go Go, The Comedy Store, and Chateau Marmont.

galley style kitchen with light brown cabinets, granite counter tops, and stainless steel appliances

About drummer John Densmore and The Doors

The Doors rehearsed in a room in this home made from the garage. Neighbors used to watch them through the windows. The Doors were the biggest band from Los Angeles during this period.

A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Densmore appeared on every recording The Doors made, with drumming inspired by jazz and world music as much as by rock and roll.

Densmore also has worked in the performing arts as a dancer and actor, and written successfully as both a playwright and the author of two books about The Doors.

living room with modern furniture and windows overlooking LA

About listing agent Susan K. Sanford

Susan brings over 30 years of marketing, media, and sales experience to real estate. Her expertise helping clients through the process of buying and selling in the corporate world helped ease her transition to residential real estate consultation. Her years of transactional experience create a high-quality, professional experience that reduces stress, produces satisfaction, and helps people she cares about find the homes of their dreams.

Exterior of former home of The Doors’ John Densmore with black luxury car in carport

Ready to learn more about the former home of The Doors’ John Densmore?

Get in touch with Susan K. Sanford for a private tour.

Photos: ANGELO ESTRELLADO/LIFESTYLE DRONE LOS ANGELES

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