Movie and TV star Melissa McCarthy is one of my favorite celebrities. She has worked in Hollywood as an award-winning actress for nearly two decades, starring in some of America’s most beloved films and shows. Now, she can add “landlord” to her career credits as well.
This year, McCarthy put her luxurious 1940’s bungalow in the Toluca Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles up for rent. The home is a beautiful combination of sophisticated design and laid back luxury. Renting the home will cost you $10,000, but today, you can take a virtual tour for free.
Front Façade
The approach to the home features lush landscaping and a hidden stairway to the front door. Oversized planters in the driveway give shade and privacy to the front of the home. Lighting along the stairs adds a functional and stylish touch in the evenings.
The Foyer
A bright entrance with clean white trim and light colors allows a dark modern art piece to shine. Meanwhile, the muted tones in the carpet are a hint of the décor in the rest of the home. Peeking out from the hallway to the right is a charming custom air vent.
The Living Room
With windows on every wall, the living room is light and bright. The mid-century light fixture paired with the art deco style mirror, antique piano, and other furnishings creates an eclectic aesthetic. The combination of bright and muted colors is unique in today’s age of white and gray color palettes. The styling of this room is unusual and very interesting.
The Dining Room
The dining room just off the kitchen boasts tasteful wainscoting and a vintage chandelier that ties into the kitschy wallpaper and art choices. This room definitely matches the eclectic vibe of the living room. A variety of artwork turns one wall into a gallery wall. Between the wallpaper, artwork, and rug, the visual interest in this room is off the charts.
The Kitchen
McCarthy’s home features a classic kitchen with modern touches. The combination of traditional cabinetry with modern hardware blends old with new flawlessly. A pristine marble-top island serves as the focal point of the kitchen. The use of green on the frame of the island adds a pop of color that helps tie this otherwise neutral space in with the rest of the house.
The Den
Comfort and serenity are on full display in the den, where floor to ceiling windows bring the lush California landscape into the home. This would be a great place to cozy up with a book and a cup of tea. In comparison to the living and dining rooms, the den is quite tame. Even with the decorative lanterns and unique coffee table.
The Home Office
McCarthy’s home office is a work-from-home dream featuring a private view, a solid wood desk, and plenty of storage space for books, files, and photographs. The full-length curtains allow for as much or as little sunlight as you want.
The Bonus Room
Everyone loves a bonus room. This one comes equipped with a flat-screen TV and a rack of weights. A game room, home gym, or both can be yours. The possibilities for bonus rooms are endless!
The Guest Room
When family and friends come to stay, they will enjoy plenty of closet space and the home’s signature views from the comfort of their bed. The vibrant rug punches up the antique rose color on the walls. The delicate chandelier and ottoman near the window complete the feminine feel of the room.
The Guest Bathroom
The guest bath is bright, light, and airy. A porcelain tub with a vintage shower curtain reminds you of the home’s 1940’s origins. Glass knobs on the vanity are an elegant detail.
The Master Suite
The master bedroom carries the lush outside landscape into the home. The floral wallpaper and muted rug give the room a classic bungalow vibe that matches the styling of the rest of the house. Large-format flowers in the wallpaper connect to the wallpaper in the dining room, and the vintage chandelier pairs perfectly with the antique mirror.
In keeping with the rest of the home, the master bathroom is modest yet chic. A white soaking tub will whisk away the stress of the day.
The Backyard
Fabulously mild, year-round weather makes outdoor entertaining space a must-have in any Los Angeles home. A lanai with ample seating is the perfect place for an afternoon drink or a weekend hangout.
Tall trees and bamboo shield the quiet backyard from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles life.
Shade sails protect the pool area from Southern California’s powerful sun and create a comfortable swimming experience all year long.
The home is immaculately maintained with tasteful design choices both inside and out.
Melissa McCarthy’s skill on the silver screen is closely matched by her style and design acumen, which can be seen on full display in her Toluca Lake home. She expertly incorporates modern elements into a 1940’s bungalow to make it feel plush, light, classic, and cozy all at the same time. I just can’t get enough of this Los Angeles gem and I hope it sparks some ideas for you!
Warm regards,
Megan