Diane Keaton was a name synonymous with Hollywood excellence, but her legacy extends beyond silver screens. Unknown to many, Keaton carved a parallel career path rooted in her artistic spirit and profound appreciation for heritage: house flipping, which became her unique hallmark over four decades.
The Initial Spark: A McDonough Collaboration
Keaton’s first deep dive into real estate came in 1988, with the acquisition of the Samuel-Novarro House. This historical landmark, echoing Mayan Revival aesthetics, was far more than just a renovation project; it was an artistic rejuvenation. As stated in Fox Business, Keaton treated this architectural gem with respect, drawing on her artistic instincts to preserve its storied essence.
Cultivating Masterpieces: The Spanish Colonial Quest
In her impressive collection lay a Spanish Colonial Revival house, bought in 2007. For Keaton, it was akin to finding a canvas that awaited her creative touch. Teaming up with designer Stephen Shadley, she embarked on a restoration journey that brought warmth and history back to life, echoing California’s historical echoes that she so adored.
The Mastery of Balance: Shaw’s Cove
One of Keaton’s crowning glories was the Shaw’s Cove property, a testament to her love for Mediterranean architecture. Envisioning harmony amid the historic Spanish tile and ironwork, Keaton ensured the home retained its old-world charm while seamlessly integrating modern luxury. It’s a narrative that miraculously sold for a resounding $12.75 million.
Timeless Elegance: The Newman Residence
Another noteworthy endeavor was the Newman Residence, reviving a Lloyd Wright legacy with a modern twist. Diane’s meticulous approach to combining contemporary elements with classic design created an intriguing blend, rejuvenating aesthetics while honoring history. Each space transformed under her hands came alive, celebrated for its authentic preservation.
The Desert Marvel: Barrio Viego
Venturing beyond the California dream, Keaton’s eye for authentic restoration touched the Arizona desert in Tucson’s Barrio Viego. Her commitment to enhancing historic materials evoked the neighborhood’s rich cultural legacy, making the Sonoran-style adobe home both timeless and true to its roots.
Diane Keaton’s Pinterest Dream House
Finally, her personal venture, famously chronicled in her book “House That Pinterest Built,” showcased a holistic approach to interior design. Inspired by years of collected visuals, her “Pinterest House” embodied her taste, weaving industrial aesthetics with warmth, openness, and honest materials. This venture became her sanctuary until her final days.
A Lasting Imprint
Diane Keaton’s dual legacy in film and house flipping remains impactful, her homes crafted like her films: with care, intention, and a nod to history’s artful sketch. Her efforts were not mere renovations; they were tales of whispered history, lovingly told through each thoughtful restoration. Truly, her journey epitomizes the melding of artist and preservationist—a heritage as enduring as the homes themselves.