When the long-time home of late actor Charlton Heston came on the market last year (for the first time ever!), we saw photos of the cool, time-capsule-like interior and the vast views the house offered. Now, Variety hears, the slick mid-century pad and its fantastic views belong to none other than Luc Besson, the director of The Fifth Element and, more recently, the Scarlett Johansson vehicle Lucy. The French director/producer reportedly bought the house last month, paying just over $12.21 million.
The house was built for the Planet of the Apes star in 1959 by architect William S. Beckett. Beckett began his career as the chief designer for Sumner Spaulding, who was the architect behind Case Study House #2. The former Heston residence was originally listed for $12.249 million, so Besson got the place at a bit below asking.
Besson's new digs include five bedrooms and six and a half bathrooms, plus a formal dining room, a two-story library, an office with a balcony, and a bar made of marble. Outside of the main residence, there's also a three-story art studio with an elevator, a built-in barbecue, a swimming pool, and tennis courts. In total, the property adds up to almost three acres, and is entered by a private, gated driveway with room for ten cars.
· Luc Besson Buys Charlton Heston's Beverly Hills Architectural Estate (EXCLUSIVE) [Variety]
· Charlton Heston's Stunning Modern Time Capsule House For Sale For First Time Ever [Curbed LA]