The sun-drenched Beverly Hills estate that served as a clandestine retreat for one of Hollywood's most speculated-about relationships has emerged onto the market, offering a rare glimpse into a hidden chapter of Golden Age cinema.
The legendary four-bedroom home, once the shared sanctuary of screen icon Katharine Hepburn and her close confidante, aviation heiress and actress Laura Harding, is now listed for a staggering $6.995 million (£5.4 million).
A Haven for Hollywood's Elite
Built in 1934, the property at 1326 Miller Drive became far more than just a house; it was a private world for Hepburn and Harding. Their intense friendship, which began in the 1930s, fuelled decades of rumour and fascination, with many historians and biographers suggesting they were romantic partners—a claim Hepburn neither confirmed nor denied in her autobiography.
The home provided a secluded escape from the relentless glare of the public eye, a place where two of America's most prominent women could live life on their own terms.
Timeless Design and Modern Luxury
Nestled behind mature hedges and a long driveway, the property exudes an aura of discreet luxury that has been meticulously preserved. The current owners have undertaken a significant renovation, masterfully blending historic charm with contemporary comfort.
The residence boasts many of its original features, including wide-plank oak floors, beamed ceilings, and a statement stone fireplace, all hallmarks of the traditional East Coast architectural style the pair adored.
Modern updates are seamlessly integrated, featuring a state-of-the-art chef's kitchen, a resort-style swimming pool, and a separate guesthouse—perfect for today's discerning buyer seeking both history and luxury.
A Legacy Etched in Stone
For years, the property was colloquially known as the 'gay house' among locals and Hollywood insiders, a testament to the enduring speculation surrounding Hepburn and Harding's relationship. It stands not just as a beautiful piece of real estate, but as a monument to a partnership that defied the conservative norms of its era.
This sale represents a unique opportunity to own a pivotal piece of cinematic and cultural history, a home that offered refuge and freedom to two extraordinary women and forever cemented its place in the lore of old Hollywood.
