The Latest in the Saga of Marilyn Monroe’s Iconic L.A. Home

Marilyn Monroe’s iconic Los Angeles home has been at the center of a preservation battle for years, with many hoping to save the landmark Spanish-style hacienda from demolition. Unfortunately, the latest development in the saga suggests that the fate of the historic property remains uncertain.

A Brief History of Marilyn Monroe’s L.A. Home

Marilyn Monroe’s L.A. home, located at 12305 5th Helena Drive in Brentwood, was built in 1929 and purchased by the actress in 1961. During her residency, the home became a hub for Hollywood glamour and saw many legendary parties and gatherings. After Monroe’s death in 1962, the property changed hands several times, with various owners making alterations and additions to the original structure.

The Preservation Battle

In recent years, concerns about the home’s preservation emerged when plans were announced to demolish the property and replace it with a new development. This sparked a heated debate among preservationists, celebrities, and local residents, who argued that the home was an important part of Hollywood history and should be saved.

In 2017, the Los Angeles City Council designated the home as a Local Historic-Cultural Monument, providing some protection against demolition. However, this designation did not completely safeguard the property, as the owner could still apply for a permit to demolish it.

The Latest Developments

Despite efforts to preserve the home, the latest news suggests that the property’s future is still uncertain. According to reports, the current owner has submitted plans to the city to demolish the existing structure and build a new home on the site. The proposal includes a request for a permit to raze the building, which, if granted, would allow the owner to proceed with the demolition.

The latest development has left preservationists and Monroe fans feeling frustrated and disheartened. Many argue that the home is an important piece of Hollywood history and should be preserved for future generations. They point out that the property is one of the last remaining examples of Spanish-style architecture in the area and holds significant cultural value.

What’s Next?

The fate of Marilyn Monroe’s L.A. home now rests with the City of Los Angeles’s Department of Building and Safety, which will review the owner’s request for a demolition permit. Preservationists are urging the city to reject the proposal and work with the owner to find an alternative solution that would preserve the property’s historic integrity.

In the meantime, supporters of the home’s preservation have started a petition to save the property. The petition, which has gained thousands of signatures, highlights the importance of preserving the home not only for its historical significance but also for its cultural and architectural value.

Conclusion

The saga surrounding Marilyn Monroe’s iconic L.A. home continues to unfold, with the latest developments leaving many concerned about the property’s future. While the home’s designation as a Local Historic-Cultural Monument provides some protection, it is not enough to guarantee its preservation. The fate of the property now rests with the City of Los Angeles’s Department of Building and Safety, and preservationists are urging the city to reject the request for demolition and work towards finding a solution that would preserve the home’s historic integrity. As the debate continues, one thing is certain – Marilyn Monroe’s L.A. home remains an important piece of Hollywood history, and its preservation is essential for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.