Movie Colony

Built in 1935, San Simian is an early example of transitional mid century architecture, expanding the Spanish Colonial vernacular by the introduction of a shed roof. This change allows for much higher ceiling height in the shed. The Palm Springs Club of the same vintage and in the same block of The Movie Colony has similar innovative design. A former owner is the actor John Wayne but it is not clear that he occupied the property, as it was a three unit structure at that time. The current owner converted San Simian to a single family dwelling with accessory unit in a 2020 gut renovation. Taken down to the studs, all new copper plumbing and all new wiring were installed. Three new bathrooms and a state of the art open concept kitchen were created, along with a wet bar and new laundry room. Three rooms are wired for wall mounted television, and all lighting is on dimmer switches. There are two parking areas, a circular drive at the front door and an expansive gravel drive on the west side which can accommodate a large two car garage within its footprint. Total off street parking can be for as many as 6 or more vehicles. Major landscaping over the past couple of years include ficus hedges and four large specimen Bismarkia Nobilis Palms. The property is known as San Simian, and a mural depicting an encounter by two monkeys graces the north wall, painted in 2021 by noted Dubai artist Tarsila Schubert. A recent addition of 750 square feet at the frontage on Granvia Valmonte brings the total acreage to one third of an acre, or 13,400 sf.