The O'Neill House - Classic Gaudi in Beverly Hills

Gaudi and Barcelona in Beverly Hills? The magnificent O’Neill house certainly looks like you’ve crossed the Atlantic and found yourself in the sunny Catalan port city.  Located not far from the Golden Triangle of Rodeo, Beverly and Cañon Drives, the O’Neill house is an architectural gem and art nouveau at its finest. And a labor of love from inception through completion.

Don O’Neill had been a highly successful gallery and art dealer specializing in art deco and in many ways the home was a natural extension of why he loved the career path he had chosen. Built throughout the 1980s by Don and his wife Sandy, in conjunction with architect Tom Oswalt, the house is a tribute to Gaudi’s inimitable and flamboyant style. It is also a delightful break from the multitude of mock-classical houses that line the streets of Beverly Hills.

The guest house alone took 5 years to complete as almost every ounce of the work had to be done by hand – it is all artisan work versus machine and factory produced. To best view the guest house walk down the alley that runs along the left side of the home as the sinewy and swirling exterior is best viewed from here.

Sadly Don O’Neill passed away (1985) before work on the main house began but his wife Sandy was able to finish the full house to his original design specifications in 1988.  As I mentioned earlier, the house is truly a labor of love in bringing one man’s dream to fruition.

According to the book, “Los Angeles Attractions” the .34 acre plot of land has 5,181 square feet (1579m) of living space with five bedrooms, six baths, a library, pool and maid’s quarters.  And more than enough ornate tile work to make Antoni Gaudi feel right at home. Every room was built in round or oval shape – no hard cold boring straight lines anywhere.

For an insider’s peek at the guest house, breezeway connecting the main house and guest house and the living room and kitchen of the main house watch the Andy Garcia 1986 movie “8 Million Ways to Die”.

Located at 507 N. Rodeo Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Please note: this is a private in-use residence and tours are not offered. 

Photos are welcome but please respect the family’s privacy.