Marilyn Monroe died tragically in 1962 at just 36 years old, yet her legacy lives on—both in the mid-century modern Palm Springs home she once owned or rented (depending on who you ask) and in the 17-year career that turned pin-up model-born Norma Jean Mortening into a supreme sex symbol. He acted in more than 20 films, including classics. Gentlemen prefer blondes, the seven-year itch, And Some like it hot..
Originally designed and built in 1961 by famed desert modernist architect Charles Du Bois and the Alexander Construction Company, the Dollhouse, as it is known, last traded in 2020 for around $1.6 million. After first going up for sale in late 2025 for just $2.8 million, it was later taken off the market. It’s now being offered for $3.3 million, with listing by David Emerson of Coldwell Banker Realty.
A wood beam cathedral ceiling soars above the open concept living area.
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Related: 1950s box office star William Holden’s former Palm Springs home lists for $11 million
Stylishly restored and remodeled in recent years, the post-and-beam residence sits on a third of an acre lot in the historic Vista Las Palmas neighborhood with postcard-worthy views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Four bedrooms and an equal number of pastel-hued bathrooms spread over nearly 3,000 square feet on one level with many original elements, including smooth gray porcelain floors and smooth finished walls.
A pink mailbox, staggered steps, and gold-trimmed iron gate introduce the charming bungalow, with a courtyard and black double doors leading to a heavenly entrance. The spacious wood-beamed living room has a sculptural metal ceiling fireplace and sliding glass doors to the outside, while the dining area and an original semi-circular bar are connected to the updated kitchen, which features blue and white cabinetry, a mosaic tile backsplash, and a top-of-the-line Wolf range.
The hedged and walled backyard is anchored by a pool and fire pit.
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Related: This SoCal estate was once home to Bing Crosby. Now it can be yours for $13.5 million.
A separate primary suite comes with a blue mosaic tiled bathroom with dual vanities and a sunken tub and shower overlooking the garden. Like most spaces in the attractive residence, the bedrooms spill out onto park-like grounds, screened by a pool and spa surrounded by a sundeck, and a fire pit conversation area.
Coincidentally, Palm Springs is currently the site of a 26-foot-tall, 17-ton “Forever Marilyn” statue, depicting the blonde bombshell’s white dress flying while standing on a subway grate. Although it has been argued that the statue is from Palm Springs because Monroe lived in the Las Palmas district, it seems likely that she was only an occasional visitor and never owned property there.
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The authors
Wendy Bowman
