Hollywood Heritage Reimagined: Lloyd Wright’s Newman Residence Returns to the Market in Pacific Palisades
Perched on 1.4 private acres in the heart of Rustic Canyon, the Newman Residence is more than a home—it’s a living artifact of Southern California’s architectural and cultural lineage. Designed by Lloyd Wright, son of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and restored by Academy Award-winning actress and design icon Diane Keaton, the estate is a rare convergence of Hollywood pedigree and pioneering midcentury-modern design.
Commissioned by Alfred Newman, the nine-time Oscar-winning composer behind some of the most memorable film scores in cinematic history, the home is an enduring testament to artistic vision and innovation. And thanks to Keaton’s reverent yet imaginative restoration, the property now functions as a refined retreat for contemporary living without sacrificing its original soul.
A Signature Work in Southern California Modernism
Lloyd Wright’s architectural hand is unmistakable throughout the 4,386-square-foot residence, where his signature use of raw materials, angular geometry, and indoor-outdoor flow are celebrated rather than subdued. Exposed brick and concrete interiors, integral built-ins, and strategically angled rooms create spaces that feel both deeply personal and sculpturally expressive.
Part of Wright’s notable body of work across Southern California—which includes the John Sowden House and Wayfarers Chapel—the Newman Residence exemplifies his more “livable” take on modernism, prioritizing flow, texture, and connection to nature.
Diane Keaton’s Thoughtful Restoration
Long before her influence became synonymous with cinematic sophistication and architectural admiration, Diane Keaton quietly became a respected steward of historic Los Angeles homes. During her ownership, Keaton applied her signature blend of restoration and restraint to the property—highlighting what was already there rather than imposing upon it.
Keaton reimagined the kitchen, modernized systems, and restored woodwork and built-in furniture with an expert eye. Most notably, she converted the primary suite into a glass-walled loft sanctuary, opening up the upper level to lush canyon views and light-filled calm.
The Layout and Grounds
Offering five bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, the layout unfolds with a rhythm that echoes Wright’s organic principles. The design draws you into a journey through intimate alcoves, soaring communal spaces, and outdoor pockets of serenity.
BedroomStep outside, and the grounds continue the story: a long private driveway, motor court, and landscaped gardens surround a series of outdoor amenities including a fireplace oven, pool, spa, and alfresco dining area. Every inch of the property is designed for a life that is both architecturally significant and deeply livable.
A Location of Quiet Prestige
Located just minutes from Sunset Boulevard, yet wrapped in the stillness of Pacific Palisades' Rustic Canyon, the estate enjoys the best of both worlds. Here, prestige is found in understatement—longtime neighbors include artists, architects, and those who value discretion over display.
The Newman Residence offers more than ownership—it offers entry into a legacy of California modernism, Hollywood history, and timeless design integrity.
For discerning buyers and architectural purists alike, this is an opportunity rarely seen and even less often repeated.