TV Producer Bruce Marshall Romans Lists the 1925 Monsignor O’Brien House for $2.1 Million

August 17, 20262 min read

Adam Latham

Television producer Bruce Marshall Romans has listed a century-old East Hollywood residence with ties to two important figures in Los Angeles architecture for $2.1 million. Romans’ television credits include Spider-Noir, The Punisher, and Marco Polo.

Adam Latham

Known as the Monsignor O’Brien House, the four-bedroom home dates to 1925 and is recognized as Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #861. Its architectural history begins with Clarence J. Smale, AIA, who designed the residence and also worked on Buster Keaton’s Hancock Park home. Edith Northman drafted the plans early in a career that would make her one of the first licensed female architects in Los Angeles.

Much of the home’s desirability comes from how many period details have survived over the years. Rather than substantially altering the interiors, the property has been restored with an emphasis on retaining its earlier architectural features.

Adam Latham

The main living room steps down from the surrounding spaces and is centered on a wood-burning fireplace. Elsewhere, arched doors and windows, original wood flooring, vintage lighting, decorative moldings, and high ceilings preserve much of the home’s 1920s identity.

The kitchen has also been updated without abandoning its historic layout and retains a butler’s pantry. Upstairs, a sleeping porch looks toward the backyard, joining additional bedrooms and living spaces on the second level.

Adam Latham

The property sits on a lot spanning nearly 8,000 square feet, elevated above the street. Behind the house, a pergola covered in vines shades an outdoor dining area, while a broad patio and lawn provide additional usable space. The garage could also accommodate a studio, office, or other secondary use.