A Uniquely LA History
Villa Romano is a 94 year old private estate in the Granada Hills North neighborhood of Los Angeles, CA. It was built by Countess Isabel Craven-Dilworth, a glass heiress and silent film star who went by the stage name Nina Romano, and her second husband, Count Sophus Danneskiold-Samsoe. Patricia Vanderbilt, fifth wife of Cornelius Vanderbilt IV and her daughter Nanette also lived in the home following Nina's death.
In its original form, the property was a working farm of over 60 acres that bred show horses and sold Meyer lemons commercially. Nina's actor friends came to learn how to ride horseback for movies. Blossom Rock ("Grandmama" from the original Addams Family series), was a frequent houseguest, keeping a first floor bedroom reserved.
Beginning in the 1970's the property became a showplace for The Classic Car Club of Southern California, hosting many private and public events. It is also rumored that a porn movie was shot on the property, though no one living has seen it.
Nina and her family sold much of the land over the years and now the house sits on the final remaining two acres. With sweeping vistas of the San Fernando Valley, mature fruit and oak trees and winding walking paths throughout, the property remains a private oasis.
The current owners are proud to be the latest stewards of this special, historic property and are currently restoring the home and accessory buildings to their former glory.