The story
A rare opportunity to own a remarkable piece of Los Angeles history, the Cole Mansion is an exquisitely restored 1888 Queen Anne, once home to Nathan Cole Jr., co-founder of the Los Angeles Times. Set in Sycamore Grove within the Highland Park-Garvanza HPOZ, the residence has undergone an extensive restoration that honors its architectural heritage while thoughtfully updating it for modern life. Upon approach, the Victorian faade makes an unforgettable first impression with its soaring corner turret, colorful fish-scale shingles, and decorative fretwork. A sweeping wraparound veranda welcomes you into the interior of the home, rich with original detail and craftsmanship. A staircase with restored woodwork and leaded glass anchors the entry, while expansive first-floor rooms feature beautifully restored oak floors, original pocket doors with antique hardware, fireplaces, period and French art glass lighting, built-in floor-to-ceiling bookcases, and imported European wallcoverings.The light-filled kitchen combines vintage character with contemporary function, featuring custom cabinetry, a cast-iron double-drainboard sink, and an Elmira Stove Works range. Each bathroom has been individually designed with period-inspired details, including clawfoot tubs and, in one, an original Queen Anne washstand. On the third floor, there's an enchanting private suite where notable guests William Jennings Bryan (Secretary of State) and Charles A. Towne (US Congressman) are rumored to have stayed. Tucked away from the rest of the house, the bedroom features a vaulted ceiling with a nearby en-suite bath located in the turret. At the rear of the property, there's a generous, private grassy backyard with sitting areas shaded by fruit trees. Here, you'll also find a separate home office with recording-studio-quality sound insulation with professional-quality projection screen, built-in Dolby Atmos speakers, a new mini-split system, and wired internet. Additionally, there is a storage shed as well as a bicycle shed. Behind the historic beauty, substantial improvements include new plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roof, insulation, seismic retrofitting, solar panels, and an EV charger. The Cole Mansion is truly an incredible historic residence, whose original character has been carefully preserved for its next chapter, ready to welcome its next owner.
