Description The Birdhouse: Los Angeles

If houses could talk, this home would definitely have a tale or two to share. Built in 1915, it was a swinging speakeasy during Prohibition times; it housed lions, giant tortoises and great apes in the ‘50s and it has since been home to an assortment of writers, directors and producers. While the neighbourhood kids aren’t riding around on lions’ backs in the garden anymore, you still get some wildlife action with the birdhouse in the backyard. Inside the home, you’ll find a bright, elegant living room featuring French country decor – the plump sofas and elegant dining table are perfect for hosting sophisticated soirees. After waking up in the cosy bedroom, head out to explore the nearby sights including Santa Monica Pier and Venice, or drive twenty minutes inland to experience the buzz of Beverly Hills. After a day of hiking or soaking up the sea air, come back home for drinks in the courtyard before heading out to enjoy Venice’s vibrant food scene.

Home truths:
*As this home is in a residential area, you'll need to respect the neighbourhood's quiet hours after ten p.m.
*This home is a guest house, so the hosts live in a separate home on the same plot
*There's no washing machine here, so you'll need to use a local laundromat
*This home doesn't have air conditioning