The Abbey Founder David Cooley Lists Beverly Hills Home for $7.4 Million After Major Renovation

David Cooley, known for establishing West Hollywood's celebrated Abbey, has once again made headlines in the luxury real estate market. Following a pattern of acquiring, renovating, and reselling architecturally notable properties, Cooley has placed his recently refurbished midcentury Beverly Hills home on the market. This venture follows a successful 2023 sale in Hancock Park, where he saw a significant profit from a 1920s estate. His latest project, located in the prestigious Trousdale Estates, showcases a remarkable transformation and is now listed for nearly $7.4 million, representing a considerable increase over his original purchase price.

The Grand Reimagination of a Beverly Hills Midcentury Marvel

In a strategic move to enhance its allure, David Cooley enlisted the expertise of Los Angeles-based designer Chad Waterhouse to undertake a comprehensive renovation of his Beverly Hills residence. This architectural gem, originally conceived nearly seven decades ago by Marvin Berman, a protégé of the famed Richard Neutra, underwent an extensive three-year transformation. The flat-roofed pavilion, now a sophisticated entertainer's dream, is poised to command a price tag just shy of $7.4 million, marking an impressive appreciation of nearly $2 million since its acquisition. Rochelle Maize of Nourmand & Associates is handling the exclusive listing.

Nestled on a generous half-acre plot, the property's entrance is heralded by a prominent boulder inscribed with "1960," the year of its construction. The stone-accented façade hints at the refined luxury within. Spanning approximately 4,000 square feet across a single level, the residence boasts four bedrooms and an equal number of bathrooms. Inside, the contemporary design is characterized by exquisite terrazzo flooring, rich wood paneling, and striking rough-hewn stone pillars that punctuate the interiors.

Upon entry, ebony-hued double doors, adorned with circular silver handles, pivot open to reveal an expansive entrance gallery. This grand space features a built-in planter and floor-to-ceiling glass walls that frame a picturesque graveled courtyard. A family room, distinguished by its soffit ceiling, includes a custom wet bar and seamless access to an outdoor terrace via sliding glass doors. The formal dining room, a study in elegance, is enveloped in geometric terracotta wallpaper, creating a captivating maze-like pattern. The sleek kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with a large marble-topped island for casual dining, state-of-the-art Viking appliances, and a curved green leather banquette that encircles an oval pedestal table. A convenient pass-through window connects the kitchen to the vibrant backyard.

Further enhancing the home's appeal is a spacious living room, anchored by an imposing travertine-clad fireplace featuring a floating hearth and set against a textured gray brick wall. The secluded primary suite offers a sanctuary of comfort, complete with dual closets and bathrooms. Consistent with the home's design philosophy, the bedroom provides direct access to the meticulously landscaped grounds. These outdoor spaces are a verdant oasis, adorned with succulents and pine trees, and feature a sculptural fountain and a newly revitalized swimming pool. Adjacent to the pool, a fire pit conversation area invites intimate gatherings. Modern conveniences abound, including an automated smart-home system, environmentally friendly solar panels, and an attached three-car garage equipped with an EV charger.

Beyond this stunning property, Cooley's real estate portfolio includes a midcentury ranch-style home overlooking Malibu's Las Tunas Beach, acquired from actress Emma Stone in 2022 for $4.4 million. He also maintains a bespoke mountainside retreat in the Coachella Valley, affectionately known as the Night House or Cielo Rock House, further demonstrating his passion for unique and luxurious properties.

David Cooley's continued success in the high-end real estate market offers a fascinating insight into the fusion of architectural appreciation and strategic investment. His keen eye for identifying properties with intrinsic value, coupled with a commitment to sophisticated renovation, consistently yields impressive results. This latest listing in Beverly Hills not only highlights his business acumen but also serves as an inspiration for those looking to transform residences into personal masterpieces. It underscores the potential for combining aesthetic vision with financial savvy in the competitive world of luxury homes, creating not just living spaces, but legacies.