What's Happening?
The Los Angeles City Council has officially designated the 'Brady Bunch' house in Studio City as a historic-cultural monument. This decision protects the iconic San Fernando Valley landmark from demolition, ensuring its preservation as a piece of Los Angeles history.
The house, which became famous as the exterior setting for the popular TV show 'The Brady Bunch,' was purchased by HGTV in 2018 for $3.5 million. HGTV invested an additional $1.9 million to recreate the show's interiors for a miniseries titled 'A Very Brady Renovation.' The home, located at 11222 Dilling St., was recommended for landmark status by the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission and approved by the Planning and Land Use Commission before receiving final approval from the City Council.
Why It's Important?
The designation of the 'Brady Bunch' house as a historic landmark underscores the cultural significance of television in shaping American family ideals during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The house is not only a symbol of Southern California's suburban charm but also a testament to the enduring legacy of the 'Brady Bunch' series in American pop culture. By preserving this site, Los Angeles acknowledges the impact of media on societal norms and the importance of maintaining cultural heritage sites. This decision also highlights the city's commitment to protecting landmarks that contribute to its unique historical narrative.
What's Next?
With its new status as a historic-cultural monument, the 'Brady Bunch' house is protected from demolition, although alterations can still be proposed with oversight from the Cultural Heritage Commission. The designation allows for a delay in demolition processes, providing time to explore preservation solutions. The current owners, who purchased the home after HGTV, may continue to offer public tours or use the property for cultural events, further integrating it into the community's cultural landscape. The landmark status may also inspire similar preservation efforts for other culturally significant sites in Los Angeles.
