Music Legend Rufus Wainwright Lists Quirky and Colorful Storybook L.A. Home for $2.3 Million

Singer and songwriter Rufus Wainwright has put his vibrant Spanish-style storybook residence on the market in Los Angeles for $2.3 million—more than 10 years after he picked up the unique abode.

Located in lower Laurel Canyon, the three-bedroom estate is tucked away in an exclusive enclave at the base of Mount Olympus.

Spanning just over 2,100 square feet of living space, the property is packed with character inside and out. The exterior conjures up images of a fairy-tale cottage hidden away among the trees, while the interior is a vibrant rainbow of colors, textures, and decor.

According to Alexandre Anu of Douglas Elliman, who is co-listing the property with Dag Eliason of Hilton & Hyland, that eclectic blend of old-world charm and fresh creativity was all under the direction of Wainwright, who wanted to put his own stamp on the home, while also maintaining its history.

"It is just flooded with original charm and character," Anu says. "Rufus has lived there since 2016 and wanted to keep its original character intact. He has updated it over the years to be a functioning home while also having lots of creative and inspirational energy."

The location of the estate, which was built in 1926, offers convenient access to nearby amenities. However, because it sits in a gated parcel, it provides residents ample privacy, further amplified by the surrounding trees, which create a natural barrier from prying eyes.

"It's a gated property that is so very private, yet is just minutes from Sunset Boulevard," Anu says. "You feel like you have escaped from L.A. It's so peaceful and serene."

Wainwright purchased the 2,119-square-foot property in 2016 for $1.45 million and has maintained the original features, while injecting some of his personal touches.

Period details include wood-beamed cathedral ceilings, stained-glass windows, built-ins, and custom millwork.

These details, combined with Wainwright's creative flair, have helped to create a space that is not only aspirational, but also inspirational. Anu reveals that the musician has written several songs while living in the home.

"The living room has pitched ceilings and a Batchelder fireplace," he notes. "Rufus wrote a few songs there. It's super inspirational and moody."

Another impressive highlight of the property is the octagon-shaped library.

"It's a complete escape," Anu says. "You could come here to write a screenplay or read a book. Everyone who has been interested in the home is in the creative space—either a writer, artist, director, or musician."

A light-filled kitchen offers custom cabinetry, marble countertops, built-in seating, a farmhouse sink, and a Dutch door that opens to the outdoor living area.

"It is a fantastic home that is also very unique. So if someone is looking for an updated Spanish with modern lines, they would not be a fit for this property," he notes. "It's for someone very specific who appreciates the storybook vibe."

The dining room with diamond-pane windows was designed for entertaining.

"For a number of years, this was their primary home," Anu explains. "It has been well lived in. I could see someone else using it as a primary residence, but it could also be an L.A. pad for a creative type from New York. It checks a lot of boxes."

The sun-soaked primary bedroom offers views of the lush landscaping.

"It has a reading nook in there that is right out of a movie," Anu notes. "It's like being on top of the woods when you are in the house. There is a door off the master that opens to the top yard that is totally private. There is an additional yard off the living room that has a koi pond, seating area, and lovers' bridge."