Laurel Canyon‘s reputation as a haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits is woven into this distinctive hillside hideaway.

The main residence, described in marketing materials as a “Temple in the Trees,” was designed in 1979 by architect Barry Gittelson for Stan Madson, a founder of Los Angeles‘s influential Bodhi Tree Bookstore, the legendary bookseller that helped shape the city’s New Age and countercultural scene for nearly half a century. More recently, the home underwent a multiyear renovation by Venn Studio, which refreshed the living spaces while preserving the original woodwork and handcrafted details.

Surrounded by mature oak trees, the main residence can be easy to miss, its wood-clad exterior blending seamlessly into the landscape. While the facade has a distinctly modern character, with asymmetrically arranged windows, the interiors feel warm and inviting thanks to an abundance of natural wood. A central atrium anchors the home, linking all three levels. At the top is the living room, which opens onto a rear deck designed for entertaining. Just below sits the dining room, accompanied by a balcony that serves as an intimate setting for outdoor meals.

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A few steps down is the kitchen, where warm wood cabinetry is paired with stone countertops. Outward-opening wood-framed windows bring fresh air into the space. The opposite side of this level is devoted to the primary suite, which includes a tranquil bedroom, a walk-in closet, and a green-tiled bath. A private corner balcony extends the suite outdoors. Much of the ground floor is occupied by a study that can also function as a second bedroom.

A separate 1953 bungalow complements the main house, offering flexible space for guests, work, or artistic pursuits, fitting complement to a property in a neighborhood long associated with artists and musicians, from Joni Mitchell to Jim Morrison. Though it predates the main house, its interiors have been updated with a more contemporary design sensibility. Whitewashed walls brighten the living room, which flows into a modern kitchen outfitted with stainless-steel appliances. One of the bedrooms is currently configured as an office, complete with grid-like built-in shelving. 

The Laurel Canyon compound is on the market for $2.9 million with Nate Cole and Joey Kiralla of Modern California House.

Click here to see all the photos of the Laurel Canyon compound.