4535 Vanalden Avenue, Tarzana, California 91356, Tarzana, 91356 - 8 bed, 14 bath

4535 Vanalden Avenue, Tarzana, California 91356 home-pic-0
ACTIVE$19,999,000
4535 Vanalden Avenue, Tarzana, California 91356
8Beds
14Baths
17,181Sqft
193,294Lot
Year Built
1941
Close
-
List price
$20M
Original List price
$20M
Price/Sqft
$1,164
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
25551443
Home ConditionExcellent
Features
Good View: Pool, Trees/Woods
Deck
Pool
Spa
Patio
ViewPool, Trees/Woods

About this home

We found 3 Cons,5 Pros. Rank: price - $20.00M(99th), sqft - 17181(99th), beds - 8(99th), baths - 14(99th).

Must See to Believe!! One of the most extraordinary compounds in all of Southern California, this legendary estate with ties to Walt Disney encompasses 4.44 sprawling acres and blends East Coast elegance with Old Hollywood grandeur in a extremely private setting that feels worlds away from city life. Originally custom-built for renowned Academy award winning director/actor John Huston, this traditional home was crafted with a magical, enduring level of craftsmanship that's increasingly rare in today's architecture. Walt Disney- an avid train enthusiast later brought his vision to the property, helping to design the now-iconic Tunnel, Cut & Trestle Railroad: a fully operational 7.5" gauge miniature train that winds through the estate, complete with a working depot, turntable, bridges, and a fascinating tunnel that is over 240 ft in length. The 17,181 sqft gated compound includes a 12,170 sqft main residence with 6 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, 9 fireplaces, a grand primary suite, and a lower 1,222 sqft covered terrace. The design integrates nature at every turn windows frame verdant views, and a resort-style, stone-framed pool with a spa creates a striking focal point as it partially flows beneath the home. Extending beyond the residence, the grounds unfold like a vast scenic park with rolling lawns, koi ponds, winding stone paths, and enchanting vignettes with shaded seating areas that evoke a sense of tranquility and timeless charm. A full-size lighted tennis court and multiple outdoor fireplaces are seamlessly woven throughout, offering space for both large-scale entertaining and peaceful retreat. Whether hosting weddings, community train days, or quiet afternoons under the trees, the estate effortlessly balances fantasy and functionality.Anchoring the estate is a newly constructed 2,775 sqft red barn, reimagined as a dramatic entertaining lodge with a full kitchen, 1 bedroom, loft, bar, and 2 bathrooms. Original barnwood was repurposed beneath the bar to preserve its rustic soul. A guest cottage (807 sqft) and train station with additional storage (1,882 sqft combined) along with off-street parking for over 20 cars round out the architectural ensemble. A one-of-a-kind storybook retreat with Hollywood provenance and enchanting, expansive grounds this is a legacy estate, a playground for generations, and a place unlike any other.

Nearby schools

3/10
Tarzana Elementary School
Public,K-51.6mi
3/10
Vanalden Avenue Elementary School
Public,K-52.1mi
6/10
Newcastle Elementary School
Public,K-53.1mi
8/10
Lanai Road Elementary School
Public,K-53.6mi
6/10
Gaspar De Portola Middle School
Public,6-81.3mi
5/10
Woodland Hills Charter Academy
Public,6-82.2mi
5/10
William Mulholland Middle School
Public,6-83.9mi
3/10
William Mulholland Middle School
Public,6-84.0mi
4/10
Reseda Senior High School
Public,9-123.0mi

Price History

Date
Event
Price
06/11/25
Listing
$19,999,000
Condition Rating
Excellent

Despite being built in 1941, this legendary estate presents in exceptional condition. The description highlights an 'enduring level of craftsmanship' and the presence of a 'newly constructed 2,775 sqft red barn' with its own full kitchen and bathrooms, indicating recent, high-quality additions. The main residence's kitchen, while traditional with dark wood cabinetry and ornate fixtures, is high-end, impeccably maintained, and features professional-grade appliances. The main bathroom is grand, clean, and in pristine condition, reflecting a classic, luxurious style rather than being outdated. All visible areas, including flooring, light fixtures, and exteriors, show no signs of wear or deferred maintenance, aligning with the 'virtually new' standard for its chosen aesthetic. The property has clearly undergone extensive, high-quality updates and continuous meticulous maintenance.
Pros & Cons

Pros

Historical Significance & Unique Provenance: The estate boasts a legendary history with ties to Walt Disney and was custom-built for Academy Award-winning director John Huston, offering an irreplaceable narrative and cultural value.
Expansive & Meticulously Designed Grounds: Sprawling 4.44 acres unfold as a vast scenic park, featuring rolling lawns, koi ponds, winding stone paths, multiple outdoor fireplaces, and a full-size lighted tennis court, providing unparalleled outdoor living.
Exceptional & Diverse Amenities: A fully operational 7.5" gauge miniature train system, complete with a 240ft tunnel, depot, turntable, and bridges, alongside a resort-style, stone-framed pool with a spa, offers unique recreational and entertainment opportunities.
Multi-Structure Compound with Versatility: The property includes a grand 12,170 sqft main residence, a newly constructed 2,775 sqft entertaining lodge (red barn) with a full kitchen and living quarters, a guest cottage, and a train station with additional storage, catering to diverse needs.
Unparalleled Privacy & Exclusivity: Situated as a gated compound in an extremely private setting, the estate offers a secluded sanctuary that feels 'worlds away from city life,' ensuring utmost tranquility and discretion.

Cons

High Maintenance & Operational Costs: The immense scale of 4.44 acres, 17,181 sqft of structures, elaborate landscaping, and unique features like the miniature train will incur substantial ongoing maintenance, utility, and potential staffing expenses.
Niche Market Appeal: The highly specialized and unique amenities, particularly the miniature train and specific historical theme, may appeal to a very select buyer demographic, potentially leading to a longer market time.
Age of Main Residence (1941): While built with enduring craftsmanship, the main residence's 1941 construction date may imply a need for significant investment in modern system upgrades (e.g., HVAC, electrical, plumbing) or aesthetic renovations to meet contemporary luxury standards, if not already completed.

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