Barely 1.5 years after she snagged a “starter” home near West Hollywood’s trendy Melrose Avenue, Golden Globe winner Awkwafina — born Nora Lum — has relocated to an even ritzier area of town. The actress/rapper purchased her loft-style WeHo condo in October 2019 for almost $2.3 million, and now she’s shelled out another $3.5 million to buy a modern home previously owned by Cliff Martin, the son of famed TV producer Quinn Martin, in the mountains high above Bel Air.
Sited on a .39-acre promontory parcel — privately secluded down a long private drive at the end of a little-known cul-de-sac — the gated residence was designed by architect Richard Dodson and is set amid a grassy hillside, with towering trees and park-like landscaping. Inside, the four-bedroom, four-bath property, built in 1991, contains 3,500-plus square feet of light-filled, Streamline Moderne-inspired living space on two levels sporting sliding glass Fleetwood doors, hardwood flooring and copious creature comforts throughout.
“Richard Dodson, AIA, was famous for integrating midcentury elements into his industrial-style architecture,” says Mick Partridge of The Partridge Estates at Hilton & Hyland, who held the listing. “The home has an incredible open floorplan with every amenity possible. Sitting by the pool at this house was reminiscent of a Slim Aarons photoshoot! It has to be one of my favorite houses I’ve ever sold.
“An orange-hued front door with a side window opens into a two-story entryway that flows into an open-concept layout rife with sliding glass doors and windows. Highlights here include a spacious living room with built-in floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a glossy fireplace topped by a TV, a dining area and chef’s kitchen equipped with Viking appliances.
Upstairs, the master suite features dual closets, a fireplace, private deck with a grassy seating area offering up canyon views, and spa-inspired bath outfitted with an oval soaking tub and separate rainfall shower. An office/creative studio also is housed on this level.
As for the amenities, expect a wine cellar with room for 2,500 bottles, soundproof recording studio and gym, with the grounds hosting a putting/chipping area, heated pool and spa, and a duo of grassy lawn spaces ideal for relaxing. Rooftop solar panels and a two-car garage add to the home’s appeal.
Originally a popular YouTuber who went viral with the 2012 hit song “My Vag,” Awkwafina achieved mainstream success through her appearances in “Ocean’s 8,” “Jumanji: The Next Level” and “Crazy Rich Asians.” In 2020, she took home a 2020 Golden Globe award for best performance by an actress in a musical or comedy motion picture for her star role in the “The Farewell.” This was her first nomination and first win, making her the first Asian-American to win an award in that category. The 32-year-old currently can be seen in her semi-autobiographical comedy series “Awkwafina is Nora From Queens.”
Danny Brown of Compass represented Awkwafina in the deal.
This story first appeared on Dirt.com, which features additional photos.
