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During the Great Depression in America, architects and builders across the board were having a tough time finding work, with the exception of Paul R. Williams.

In 1934, he was commissioned to design businessman Jay Paley’s Bel-Air residence, having already completed 26 other large Hollywood homes.

At first glance, Williams’ design for the Paley House appears traditional but his treatment was decidedly modern.

Per the Paul Williams Project, a 1935 article in Southwest Builder and Contractor described William’s vision for the home as:

Carrara marble and glass in the kitchen, bathrooms and showers, rubber tile work, and a mix of oak and linoleum floors. Hardwoods and pine trim were to be installed throughout along with closets lined with cedar.

A state-of-the-art gas-fired heating/hot water system and air conditioning were also to be installed.

The builders, O’Neal & Sons, reckoned it would cost in the region of $100 000 which was a huge sum for the time.

The 13-bedroom, 15 100 sqft house rests on a six-acre estate.

After Paley’s death in 1961, the furnishings were sold at auction and the estate subdivided and developed. The house, retaining the pool and tennis court, sold for $475 000 to Barron Hilton. The businessman and hotelier lived at the house until his death in 2019.

I’ll leave you to take a guided tour with his son Rick Hilton, the father of Paris and Nicky, and Rick’s son, Barron Hilton II:

[sources:paulwilliams]