1128 W. Kensington Road
Los Angeles, CA 90026
$2,495,000 | 4 Beds | 2 Baths | 2,711 Sq. Ft. | Price/Sq.Ft. $920 | 5,868 Sq. Ft. Lot | Built in 1907
Located in the heart of Angeleno Heights Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (or HPOZ), the Sage-Turnbull Residence is surrounded by other historic homes and close to many of the best Echo Park and Silver Lake shops, restaurants, parks, and much more. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of classic architecture, or simply looking for a beautiful and unique home in one of LA’s most vibrant first neighborhoods, the Sage-Turnbull Residence stands out amongst its notable neighbors as a true original.
The home was originally built in 1907 in the Mission Revival style, which is extraordinarily rare for Angeleno Heights where most of the homes were built in the classic Victorian style.
The home’s striking curb appeal is immediately apparent from the moment you set foot on the property. The gorgeous native low-water landscaping, three-story tower on the southeast corner, recessed front porch, and hipped tiled roof all contribute to the home’s unique and distinctive character. These features, along with many others, helped the owners earn the home’s current Mills Act status.
The Mills Act is a California state law that provides significant property tax savings for owners of historic properties who agree to maintain the historic character and integrity of their homes. The law was established in 1972 and is named after State Senator James Mills, who authored the bill. Under the Mills Act, property owners can enter into a contract with their local government to receive a reduction in property taxes in exchange for preserving the historic nature of their property. The savings can be substantial, with property tax reductions of up to 50% or more.
To qualify for the Mills Act, a property must be designated as a historic landmark or located within a designated historic district. The property owner must also prepare a Historic Property Preservation Agreement, which outlines the specific preservation activities that will be undertaken and the ongoing maintenance requirements to maintain the property’s historic integrity.
The Mills Act is an important tool for preserving California’s rich architectural heritage and encouraging property owners to invest in the restoration and maintenance of historic properties. It provides a financial incentive for property owners to take on the significant expense of preserving and restoring historic buildings, ensuring that these valuable assets are protected for future generations to enjoy. You can read more about The Mills Act and why it’s important to the fabric of Los Angeles here.
The interior of the Sage-Turnbull Residence has been meticulously restored, with great care taken to preserve the classic design elements that make this home so special.
The coffered ceilings and wainscoting, Bachelder tile fireplace, and original hardwood floors are all original to the home and have been lovingly maintained over the years. The yellow glass windows in the stairwell and living room are also original and have been refurbished to create a one-of-a-kind ambiance that is both warm and inviting.
The first floor of the home consists of a large living room, dining room, kitchen, and bathroom. The living room is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and a stunning original fireplace that is perfect for chilly evenings.
The dining room is equally impressive, with ample room for entertaining guests and a beautiful view of the backyard and surrounding neighborhood.
The kitchen is absolutely massive and has all stainless steel appliances, a great center island, tall ceilings, a wine refrigerator, and a gas stove and oven.
Head upstairs to find the home’s four bedrooms and the second bathroom. The layout provides plenty of space for a growing family or visiting guests.
The bedrooms are all generously sized and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
This bedroom has full on views of the Downtown Los Angeles skyline.
While this bedroom is currently used as an art and design studio.
And your fourth and final bedroom is currently primed as a relaxing den, perfect for home movie nights.
The upstairs bath is absolutely dreamy and vintage in the best way. With its clawfoot soaking tub, pedestal sink, classic tiles, and a separate walk-in shower, this bathroom has been perfectly designed especially for a Mills Act property.
There is also this breathtaking private balcony with amazing views of Echo Park Lake and the San Gabriel mountains beyond. Yes, it is accessed through the bathroom’s French doors, but can also be found via a bedroom window.
The top level of the home is that incredible one-of-a-kind tower/attic. This is an awesome space that provides additional room, perfect for a home office or playroom, artists studio or guest quarters.
From this vantage point on the third level, the 360 degree views are just really rare for this area where few homes and buildings surpass two stories.
The backyard of the Sage-Turnbull Residence is just off the dining room and features a newer wrap-around deck and garden area that is perfect for outdoor entertaining or just relaxing with a good book.
The views from the backyard are simply breathtaking, with stunning vistas of Echo Park Lake, Downtown LA, the Griffith Park Observatory, and the Hollywood Sign. I love the built-in seating benches on the deck, so ideal for having a large group of friends over! Also notice the lemon trees. There are several citrus trees on the property.
A detached garage on the property offers additional storage space, as well as the potential for an ADU conversion. Gated off-street driveway parking is also available.
I just had to include this image of the garage’s interior not just because of this cute little dog in the photo, but also to show you just how big it is.
1128 Kensington is seriously one of the best homes in one of Los Angeles’s great historic neighborhoods. Its Mills Act status is just icing on this wonderful, wonderful cake.
I would love to give you a private tour of 1128 Kensington Road in Angeleno Heights! Call me today at (937) 243-2349 or email me at tatiana.tensen@sothebyshomes.com to schedule a visit.
Listing provided courtesy of Robert Kallick and Justin Freeling, Compass.
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