top of page

History of Sierra Towers

Sierra Towers, an iconic high-rise located in Los Angeles, was designed by renowned architect Jack A. Charney. Completed in 1965, the building exemplifies mid-century modern architecture with its sleek, minimalist design. Charney, a student of Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler, incorporated clean lines and expansive windows, allowing for unparalleled views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Rumor Has It: The Mysteries and Celebrity Residents of Sierra Towers

​Sierra Towers in Los Angeles has long been the subject of intrigue, luxury, and unconfirmed stories surrounding its construction and famous residents. Some of the most persistent rumors suggest fascinating yet unverified details about the building's history and development.

One claim is that the original site for Sierra Towers was in Beverly Hills, but local zoning restrictions on building height led to the project's stalling. It is said that only after Los Angeles County annexed the site did construction proceed. However, this tale is questionable, as the location is near Beverly Hills but not actually part of it. For this rumor to be true, the annexation would have needed to include nearby streets like Sierra Alta Way or adjacent office buildings, such as 9255 Sunset Boulevard, located between Doheny Drive and Sunset Boulevard.

Another rumor involves alleged interference by organized crime, with claims that certain figures paid off neighboring residents to drop their objections to the building blocking their views. There's also a tale about Frank Sinatra stepping in to help move the project forward after construction stalled, supposedly because he wanted his mother to live in the building.

One theory behind the building’s name, Sierra Towers, suggests that there were originally plans for a second tower, which was later abandoned. However, this is likely untrue, as the building was not even referred to as Sierra Towers for its first decade.

sierra-towers-west-hollywood.jpg

Notable and Celebrity Residents of Sierra Towers (Past and Present)

Sierra Towers has become synonymous with luxury living, attracting numerous high-profile residents over the years. Here's a ranking of the building's most notable residents, based on their general popularity:

  1. Elton John: Iconic singer-songwriter and one of the best-selling music artists in history.

  2. Cher: Multi-talented singer and actress, often called the "Goddess of Pop."

  3. Ozzy Osbourne: Legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and star of The Osbournes.

  4. Lindsay Lohan: Actress and recording artist, famous for roles in Mean Girls and The Parent Trap.

  5. Courteney Cox: Beloved for her portrayal of Monica Geller on Friends.

  6. Lily Collins: Actress and model, known for Emily in Paris and Mirror Mirror.

  7. David Geffen: Billionaire entertainment executive and producer, co-founder of DreamWorks.

  8. Sidney Poitier: Trailblazing actor, the first Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Actor.

  9. Vincent Gallo: Actor, director, and musician, known for Buffalo '66 and The Brown Bunny.

  10. Joan Collins: British actress and author, famous for her role in Dynasty.

 

Sierra Towers remains a symbol of luxury living in Los Angeles, attracting a wide range of notable figures from Hollywood stars to influential business moguls. Whether the rumors are true or not, the building’s mystique and celebrity residents only add to its allure in the city’s landscape.

© 2024 Monet Berger & Laura Pardini

Disclaimer

 

Monet Berger, Laura Pardini, and Compass shall be held harmless from any liability arising from the use or reliance on the information contained on this site.​

Corporate Responsibility, Privacy & Legal Notices: Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Compass is licensed to do business as: Compass in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia, and Washington; Compass RE in Delaware, Idaho, Pennsylvania and Tennessee; Compass Real Estate in Washington, DC, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Wyoming; Compass Realty Group in Missouri and Kansas; Launch Powered by Compass in Arizona; and Compass Carolinas, LLC in South Carolina. California License # 01991628, 1527235, 1527365, 1356742, 1443761, 1997075, 1935359, 1961027, 1842987, 1869607, 1866771, 1527205, 1079009, 1272467. No guarantee, warranty or representation of any kind is made regarding the completeness or accuracy of descriptions or measurements (including square footage measurements and property condition), such should be independently verified, and Compass expressly disclaims any liability in connection therewith. No financial or legal advice provided. Equal Housing Opportunity. © Compass 2024. 212-913-9058.​

 

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. ©2020 Real Estate Co. All Rights Reserved.

bottom of page