Unveiling Paul Lynde's Iconic Hollywood Regency Home In Beverly Hills
Dive into the fascinating world of celebrity real estate, and few residences tell a story quite as compelling as Paul Lynde's house. This legendary comedian and actor, beloved for his quick wit and unforgettable roles, left an indelible mark on Hollywood, and his homes, particularly his Beverly Hills abode, were extensions of his unique persona. For slightly over a year, Paul Lynde had lived in this magnificent French Regency house in Beverly Hills, a true testament to his success and distinctive taste.
This article will take you on a journey through the storied past of Lynde's magnificent French Regency house, exploring its architectural significance, its famous occupants, and the personal touches that made it truly his own. We'll delve into the details of this iconic property, once a beacon of Hollywood glamour, nestled high above the Sunset Strip, and understand why Paul Lynde's home continues to captivate the imagination of fans and architectural enthusiasts alike. No effort was spared to create an inviting environment within its walls, reflecting the unique character of its owner.
Table of Contents
- The Man Behind the Legend: A Glimpse into Paul Lynde's Life
- The Allure of Hollywood Regency: John Elgin Woolf's Masterpiece
- A Pedigree of Glamour: The History of Paul Lynde's House
- Inside Paul Lynde's Beverly Hills Sanctuary: Architectural Details
- The Center Square's Domain: Paul Lynde and His Home
- The Final Chapter: Paul Lynde's Passing at Home
- The Legacy Continues: Post-Lynde Ownership
- Exploring More Iconic Residences
The Man Behind the Legend: A Glimpse into Paul Lynde's Life
Before we delve into the specifics of Paul Lynde's house, it's essential to understand the man himself. Paul Edward Lynde, born in 1926 in Mount Vernon, Ohio, was one of six children, the middle of four boys. His father served as a local police officer and later as the sheriff of the Mount Vernon jail for two years. Lynde's early life in Ohio laid the groundwork for a career that would take him to the heights of Hollywood.
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His inspiration to become an actor struck at a remarkably young age, around four or five, after his mother took him to see an original silent film. This early exposure to the magic of cinema clearly ignited a spark within him. Lynde would go on to become a character actor with a distinctively campy and snarky persona, often subtly poking fun at his closeted homosexuality through his roles and comedic timing. This unique style made him a beloved figure, particularly for his portrayal of Uncle Arthur on the iconic television series Bewitched, the befuddled father Harry MacAfee in Bye Bye Birdie, and, perhaps most famously, as a regular center square on the game show Hollywood Squares. His quick wit and memorable one-liners became his trademark, endearing him to millions.
Frank DeCaro, a veteran of The Daily Show, recalls Lynde as "someone whose dog whistle of gay humor little gay kids could hear." This speaks volumes about Lynde's ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels, offering a form of subtle rebellion and recognition for those who understood his nuanced humor. It's this complex, multifaceted personality that makes exploring Paul Lynde's house so intriguing – a home that, in many ways, truly told his story.
Paul Lynde: Personal Data & Biodata
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Paul Edward Lynde |
| Born | June 13, 1926 |
| Died | January 11, 1982 (aged 55) |
| Birthplace | Mount Vernon, Ohio, USA |
| Occupation | Actor, Comedian |
| Notable Roles | Uncle Arthur (Bewitched), Harry MacAfee (Bye Bye Birdie), Center Square (Hollywood Squares) |
| Architectural Style of Home | Hollywood Regency, French Regency |
| Home Location | 9250 Cordell Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90069 |
| Cause of Death | Heart Attack |
The Allure of Hollywood Regency: John Elgin Woolf's Masterpiece
The architectural style of Paul Lynde's house is as significant as its owner. Built in 1926, the home embodies the Hollywood Regency style, a design movement that truly came into its own in the mid-20th century, largely thanks to architects like John Elgin Woolf. Woolf was an "architect to the stars" in his day, renowned for popularizing this elegant and glamorous style that perfectly captured the essence of old Hollywood.
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Hollywood Regency is characterized by its blend of classical European design elements with modern, often dramatic flair. Think grand entrances, symmetrical facades, polished surfaces, ornate details, and a sophisticated use of light and space. It's a style that exudes opulence without being ostentatious, maintaining an "elegant restraint" typical of Beverly Hills. During his ownership, Lynde commissioned John Elgin Woolf to remodel the home in the 1950s, further cementing its status as a prime example of Woolf's work. This collaboration between a visionary architect and a celebrated entertainer undoubtedly resulted in a residence that was both a comfortable living space and a work of art.
The fact that this particular Paul Lynde house was designed by the "king of Hollywood Regency," John Elgin Woolf, adds an incredible layer of historical and architectural significance. Woolf's designs were highly sought after by Hollywood's elite, and his touch transformed residences into true statements of luxury and style. The exterior, even today, maintains that elegant restraint typical of Beverly Hills, hinting at the grandeur within that Woolf so skillfully crafted.
A Pedigree of Glamour: The History of Paul Lynde's House
Any house above the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles probably has some kind of fabulous pedigree or other, but Paul Lynde's house is especially fun. Located at 9250 Cordell Drive in Los Angeles, CA 90069, this property boasts a history that predates Lynde's ownership, adding to its allure. The home was originally built in 1926, establishing it as a classic piece of Beverly Hills real estate.
Before becoming Paul Lynde's house, it was the residence of another legendary Hollywood figure: Errol Flynn. Specifically, it was Nora's home (Errol Flynn's wife) at the beginning of their marriage and later sold to Lynde. While the home today showcases the sophisticated Hollywood Regency style perfected by John Elgin Woolf, it's fascinating to imagine its earlier appearance during Errol Flynn's time. One can only speculate about the transformations it underwent, as the "fabulous home" certainly did not look like its current iteration in Errol's time.
The journey of this house from the hands of one Hollywood icon to another underscores its inherent value and desirability within the exclusive Beverly Hills real estate market. It's a property that has witnessed decades of Hollywood history, evolving with the tastes and needs of its distinguished residents, yet always maintaining its position as a beacon of luxury and architectural excellence. The address, 9250 Cordell Drive, Los Angeles, CA, has become synonymous with a certain level of Hollywood regency designer prestige, thanks in no small part to its famous inhabitants.
Inside Paul Lynde's Beverly Hills Sanctuary: Architectural Details
The Paul Lynde house at 9250 Cordell Drive is not just a celebrity home; it's a meticulously designed architectural gem. This French Regency house, built in 1926, offers a blend of classic elegance and functional luxury. The property features three bedrooms and three bathrooms, a comfortable and spacious layout for its time, and certainly for a single individual like Lynde.
Beyond the main residence, the property boasts a guest house and a cabana, offering additional space for visitors or leisure activities. A standout feature of the outdoor area is the trapezoid-shaped pool, a unique design choice that adds a touch of modern geometric artistry to the classic setting. This distinct pool shape, set well below the house, creates a striking visual element, particularly when viewed from above or from the main living areas. The mention of "John Woolf 12:30 facing south east" might refer to specific architectural plans or an orientation detail, emphasizing the precise planning that went into the home's design.
The overall impression is one of an inviting environment where "no effort has been spared to create" comfort and beauty. The careful curation of both indoor and outdoor spaces reflects the attention to detail characteristic of Hollywood Regency design and the discerning taste of its owners. This Paul Lynde house truly represents a pinnacle of luxurious living in the Hollywood Hills.
A Glimpse into the Interior: Architectural Digest Feature
Paul Lynde's home was so significant that it was even featured in Architectural Digest, a testament to its design and the stature of its owner. Being showcased in such a prestigious publication indicates the home's aesthetic appeal and its adherence to high design standards. However, personal recollections sometimes offer a different perspective than polished magazine spreads.
One individual recalled visiting Paul's house many times during the 70s (while dating his assistant/cook) and noted that "the rear of the house looked nothing like this" (presumably referring to the pristine, perhaps idealized, images in the magazine). This highlights the common discrepancy between how celebrity homes are presented in media and their lived reality. While the magazine would showcase the grand, public-facing aspects and architectural triumphs, daily life might reveal more practical or less polished elements. Nevertheless, the fact that Paul Lynde's house garnered such attention from a leading design publication speaks volumes about its inherent beauty and the impact of John Elgin Woolf's remodels.
The Center Square's Domain: Paul Lynde and His Home
For fans, the phrase "Yes Paul Lynde, Uncle Arthur, the center square lived in the house" instantly conjures images of the comedian's distinctive presence. Paul Lynde's house was more than just a place to live; it was a backdrop to his private life, a sanctuary from the demands of his public persona. Lynde's success afforded him the luxury of living in such a grand residence, a far cry from his humble beginnings in Mount Vernon, Ohio.
His childhood memories, like walking to "the grandest house in town and sitting on the steps, waving at cars that went by and pretending I lived there," reveal a deep-seated desire for aspiration and grandeur. This ambition was realized in his Beverly Hills home. He famously stated, "And I wanted someday a living room like the lobby of the Fairmont!" While his own living room might not have been identical to a grand hotel lobby, the Hollywood Regency style of his home certainly evoked a similar sense of scale, elegance, and public-facing splendor, perhaps a reflection of his own theatricality and desire for a certain level of sophistication.
The home, with its elegant exterior and carefully curated interiors, likely served as both a private retreat and a space for entertaining, reflecting the dual nature of Lynde's life – the public comedian and the private individual. It was a tangible symbol of his achievements and a place where he could truly be himself, away from the glare of the cameras, yet still surrounded by the trappings of Hollywood success.
The Final Chapter: Paul Lynde's Passing at Home
Tragically, Paul Lynde's house also became the setting for his final moments. He died in his home here, a somber end to a vibrant life. Paul Lynde was found dead in his Beverly Hills, California home by his friend, Paul Barresi, on Monday, January 11, 1982. The news sent shockwaves through Hollywood and among his legions of fans.
The coroner ruled the death a heart attack, providing a clear medical explanation for his sudden passing. However, there has been some speculation surrounding the exact circumstances, with some suggestions that "he might have been dead for two days." Despite this, his death appears in most references as occurring on that specific date. The quiet passing of such a public figure in the privacy of his own home underscores the often-solitary nature of celebrity life behind the glamorous facade. The fact that he passed away in the very place that represented his aspirations and achievements adds a poignant layer to the history of Paul Lynde's house.
The Legacy Continues: Post-Lynde Ownership
The story of Paul Lynde's house did not end with his passing. Like many celebrity homes, it continued its journey through the hands of other notable figures. Years later, the renowned musician Moby acquired the property, further cementing its status as a residence with a significant Hollywood pedigree. Moby, known for his electronic music and vegan activism, brought a new chapter to the home's history.
When Moby later put the property on the market, he was asking over $3 million dollars for it, a testament to the enduring value of prime Beverly Hills real estate, especially one with such a rich history and architectural significance. The house, now a blend of its original 1926 charm, John Elgin Woolf's 1950s Hollywood Regency remodel, and subsequent updates, continues to be a sought-after address. It stands as a living piece of Hollywood history, a tangible link to the golden age of television and the unique personality of Paul Lynde.
The Enduring Appeal of Celebrity Homes
The fascination with celebrity homes, including Paul Lynde's house, stems from a desire to connect with the lives of those we admire. These residences offer a glimpse behind the curtain, revealing the private spaces where public figures lived, created, and relaxed. They become landmarks, imbued with the stories and spirits of their famous occupants. For many, remembering walking to "the grandest house in town and sitting on the steps, waving at cars that went by and pretending I lived there" resonates deeply, embodying a universal dream of aspiration and success. The enduring appeal of properties like 9250 Cordell Drive lies not just in their architectural beauty, but in the narratives they hold.
Exploring More Iconic Residences
The world of luxury real estate and celebrity homes is vast and endlessly fascinating. From the elegant restraint of Beverly Hills mansions to the sprawling estates of music legends, each property tells a unique story. The journey through Paul Lynde's house is just one example of the rich history embedded in these iconic residences.
If you enjoyed reading about Paul Lynde's home and are captivated by the intersection of luxury, real estate, and celebrity lives, there's much more to explore. We regularly post on luxury, real estate, and celebrity homes, bringing you insights into the most magnificent properties and the famous individuals who inhabit them.
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Conclusion
From its origins in 1926 to its transformation by John Elgin Woolf and its subsequent ownership by figures like Errol Flynn and Moby, Paul Lynde's house at 9250 Cordell Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90069, stands as a true icon of Hollywood Regency architecture and celebrity history. It was a home that mirrored Lynde's own journey from humble beginnings to a celebrated career, embodying his aspirations and providing a private haven for the man behind the beloved "center square." The details, from its 3 bedrooms and 3 baths to its guest house, cabana, and distinctive trapezoid pool, paint a picture of a meticulously designed and cherished residence.
Finally, we hope you enjoyed reading about Paul Lynde's home and its fascinating narrative. This residence is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a testament to a bygone era of Hollywood glamour and the enduring legacy of one of its most unique stars. We invite you to share your thoughts on Paul Lynde and his iconic home in the comments below, and perhaps explore other articles on our site about the magnificent properties that define Hollywood's rich history. Your engagement helps us continue to bring these captivating stories to life.
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