Once home to actor James Cagney, this Beverly Hills estate is architecturally spectacular with a rich history to match. Its five-acre lot and well-preserved character make it feel more like a retreat than a home. With seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms spread across several independent structures, this property is one of the most iconic in its prestigious zip code. 9631 Cedarbrook Dr, Beverly Hills, is priced at $38,500,000 and listed by Timothy Di Prizito and Aaron Kirman with Christie’s International Real Estate SoCal.
The compound was originally designed under the direction of architect Welton Becket, whose Los Angeles firm shaped many of the region’s most recognizable civic and cultural buildings. Only two Irish families have owned the property over nearly nine decades. The current owners acquired it directly from Cagney’s widow in the mid-1980s and have focused on careful restoration that maintains the architect’s original intent.
The main residence takes the form of a European-inspired sanctuary. Stone walls, terracotta tiles, exposed beams and leaded glass contribute to a storybook quality rooted in traditional building methods. The overall aesthetic evokes an old-world setting shaped by expert craftsmanship.
Inside the main villa, the entry opens into a sequence of wood paneled rooms, including the wine cellar, butler’s pantry, dining room, and several living spaces. The primary living room connects directly to the outdoor terrace for easy entertaining. Throughout these communal spaces, the emphasis remains on natural materials and a thoughtful flow.
The villa also contains two expansive suites. Each master bedroom includes opulent dressing areas and large en-suite baths. A third guest suite features cedar lined storage and its own luxurious bathroom.
A short distance from the main villa is the guest residence known as the Boathouse. It is defined by trussed beams crafted from nineteenth century French oak. With its private gate and sheltered porte cochere, the structure functions as an independent lodging space suitable for visitors.
The estate also includes a separate creative studio along with additional detached quarters and auto garages. These structures make the property feel like a small European village, with each building occupying its own designated zone.
The outdoor environment is shaped by decades of cultivation and includes tiered citrus gardens, hand laid stone paths, a glass tile pool, cabanas, outdoor kitchens and regulation sports courts with spectator seating. The result is a lush and luxurious landscape that preserves an important chapter of Beverly Hills history.
Listing: 9631 Cedarbrook Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 [Christie’s International Real Estate SoCal]
