Lucille Ball's Beverly Hills house captures the iconic star's glamorous life from her "I Love Lucy" era through her final years

Lucille Ball’s Beverly Hills house stands as a vivid time capsule of Hollywood glamour, capturing the essence of an era when television was beginning to shape American culture. Nestled in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods, this iconic mansion was purchased in 1955, right at the height of her fame as the queen of the beloved sitcom I Love Lucy. The house not only reflected Lucille’s dazzling success but also mirrored her personal journey—from sitcom starlet to an enduring entertainment icon.

With six bedrooms spanning a lush one-acre lot, this mansion has witnessed decades of history unfold within its walls. In 2023, it sold for an impressive $3.2 million, underscoring its timeless appeal. Join me as we explore the rich history, stunning features, and lasting cultural impact of the Lucille Ball house, a true Hollywood treasure.

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Lucille Ball Purchases the Iconic Beverly Hills House in 1955

In 1955, riding the wave of I Love Lucy’s massive success, Lucille Ball purchased this stunning Beverly Hills mansion. Priced at approximately $150,000 back then (equivalent to roughly $1.5 million today), the house was more than just a home—it was a symbol of her hard-earned success.

Why Beverly Hills? For Lucille, it was about more than just prestige. The location offered proximity to major studios, making filming and production easier, while the neighborhood boasted elite neighbors, including stars like Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra. The house felt like her personal sanctuary, a place to unwind away from the public eye.

It was also a fresh start following her divorce from Desi Arnaz. Lucille envisioned this mansion as her “dream home,” a space where she could nurture her family and indulge her artistic passions.

Reasons Lucille Chose This Lucille Ball House

Spacious for family gatherings and entertaining friends.
A private oasis amid the buzz of Hollywood fame.
Ample room to showcase her growing art collection.

Lucille once wrote in her autobiography about the joy of finally owning a home that suited her personality—a blend of elegance, warmth, and a dash of fun.

Architectural Marvels and Exterior Features of Lucille Ball’s House

The exterior of the Lucille Ball house is nothing short of breathtaking. The iconic red-tiled roof gleams under the California sun, welcoming guests through arched doorways that speak to old-world charm. The wrought-iron gates, adorned with subtle star motifs, provide both security and a touch of whimsy—perfect for a Hollywood star who loved a bit of sparkle.

Set on a sprawling 1-acre lot, the property boasts beautifully manicured gardens, a shimmering swimming pool, and a quaint guest house that often accommodates visiting friends and family. From the poolside, one can enjoy sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills, a constant reminder of the city’s magic and opportunity.

Pros and Cons Table: Exterior Highlights

Feature Description Glam Factor

Entry Gate Ornate iron with star motifs 10/10

Landscaping: Palm trees, rose gardens 9/10

Pool Area Spacious with vintage tile work 8/10

Guest House Cozy, private quarters 7/10

The exterior perfectly balances classic elegance with the casual luxury for which Beverly Hills homes are known. It’s easy to imagine Lucille hosting lively garden parties here, surrounded by Hollywood’s elite.

Inside the Lucille Ball House: Lavish Interiors from the I Love Lucy Era

Step inside, and you’re transported to a world of mid-century glamour—the living room dazzles with velvet sofas and Hollywood Regency furniture, blending comfort with style. Every piece seems carefully chosen to reflect Lucille’s vibrant personality—fun, bold, and timeless.

The kitchen is a delightful mix of vintage charm and practicality. Though updated over the years, it retained its original character, serving as a warm gathering spot where Lucille loved to entertain close friends. It was more than a cooking space; it was a hub of laughter and storytelling.

Her main suite offered a peaceful retreat with a private balcony overlooking the gardens—perfect for quiet mornings or starry evenings.

Must-See Interior Rooms

Grand Foyer with a dazzling crystal chandelier, setting the tone of elegance.
The Dining Room is designed for star-studded dinners and lively conversations.
Home Office where Lucille penned scripts, dreamed up characters, and planned her next big moves.

Many photos of the Lucille Ball house interior reveal a home that is both luxurious and inviting, reflecting the star’s multifaceted life.

Personal Touches: How Lucille Ball Made the House Her Own

Lucille’s personal flair is evident throughout the mansion. Her art collection, featuring pieces inspired by Picasso and Andy Warhol, adorned the walls, adding bursts of color and culture. The house also proudly displayed ‘I Love Lucy’ memorabilia—original scripts, costumes, and photographs that celebrated her groundbreaking work.

In the 1960s, following her divorce, Lucille made several renovations that softened the space, adding warmth and intimacy without sacrificing glamour.

Signature Decor Items

Red lipstick-inspired accents, a playful nod to her iconic image.
Family photos featuring her children, Lucie and Desi Jr., bring a heartfelt touch.
An outdoor patio designed for watching TV under the stars during summer evenings.

These personal touches made the house more than just a showpiece—it became a true home.

The Lucille Ball House During Her I Love Lucy Peak (1950s-1960s)

The 1950s and ’60s were the heyday of Lucille Ball’s career, and her Beverly Hills mansion was at the heart of it all. The house frequently hosted glamorous parties attended by the likes of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, making it a hub of Hollywood’s golden social scene.

Interestingly, some I Love Lucy episodes drew inspiration directly from her home life, adding a layer of authenticity that fans adored. It’s easy to imagine Lucy Ricardo herself walking these halls, sparking laughter and joy.

Family milestones, like the growth of her children, were celebrated here, making the mansion a warm backdrop to her bustling life.

Timeline of 1955-1960s Events at Lucille Ball House

YearEvent

1955 Purchase of Beverly Hills house

1956 Hosted the first major Hollywood party

1960 Renovations post-divorce

1965 Family celebrations and gatherings

Evolution Through Her Later Years and Career Shifts (1970s-1980s)

As Lucille Ball’s career shifted during the ’70s and ’80s, so did her home. The mansion underwent remodels aimed at comfort, reflecting her desire for a cozier, more private family environment. The success of Here’s Lucy brought new energy, and the house became a quieter sanctuary away from the spotlight.

During her final years, the home saw accessibility updates to accommodate her health needs, showing how deeply intertwined her life was with this space. After her passing in 1989, the house was inherited by her daughter, Lucie Arnaz, who ensured the home’s legacy was preserved.

Life Stages in the Lucille Ball House

EraKey EventsHome Changes

1970s Here’s Lucy success Cozy family vibe

1980s Health challenges Accessibility updates

Recent History, Sales, and Current Status of the Lucille Ball House

In the decades following Lucille Ball’s tenure, the house has changed hands several times. It sold in the 1990s for approximately $1.2 million and was most recently sold in 2023 for $3.2 million, reflecting both its historical significance and prime location.

Today, the mansion is cherished by its owners, who have taken care to preserve its historic charm while incorporating modern comforts. Celebrity homes in Beverly Hills often set the market pace, and this property remains a standout for collectors and fans alike.

Cultural Impact and Legacy of Lucille Ball’s Beverly Hills House

The Lucille Ball house is more than a residence—it’s a cultural landmark. Fans can sometimes catch virtual tours or view curated photos online, keeping the star’s legacy alive. The home’s blend of glamour and personal warmth has influenced modern celebrity homes that favor a stylish yet approachable aesthetic.

For those fascinated by Hollywood history, the mansion offers a tangible connection to an unforgettable era.

Visiting or Experiencing the Lucille Ball House Today

While the Lucille Ball house is a private residence and not regularly open to the public, Beverly Hills neighborhood tours often include stops nearby, letting fans glimpse the exterior and soak in the atmosphere.