Canadian actress Malin Akerman and her husband, Jack Donnelly, have brought their longtime Los Angeles hideaway to the market for $2.99 million—more than 15 years after purchasing the “idyllic” abode.
“The Hunting Wives” star, 48—who hails from Canada but moved to California in 2002—purchased the elegant Spanish-style compound in 2008 for just $895,000, according to property records, and it has served as her main residence ever since.
Interestingly, while she has owned the home for more than a decade, Akerman has actually lived there for much longer, having initially rented the dwelling for three years before buying it. She explained to Elle Decor that she “fell in love” with the property from the moment she laid eyes on it—even though it was in a much more rustic state than the beautiful dwelling that exists today.
The actress noted that the four-bedroom, four-bathroom home has been her sanctuary throughout many major changes in her life, including her divorce from her first husband, Roberto Zincone, the birth of her son, Sebastian Zincone, now 13, and her marriage to Donnelly, 40, whom she wed in 2018.
“So many things happened here,” she shared. “I was living here when my son was born, when I went through a divorce and got remarried. My best friend even moved in for a year and a half.”
However, having lived in the dwelling for more than two decades, during which she has carried out several significant renovations, the actress said the time has come to move on—namely to the East Coast, where she plans to live so she can be closer to her relatives in Sweden.
Now, she hopes to find a buyer who will care for the property, which was originally built in 1940 and is now listed with Lori Levine Harris of the Brock & Lori Real Estate Team, the same way she has.
During her stewardship of the home, Akerman worked to not only update the residence, but to stay true to its origins, adding a new kitchen, a pool, a new primary suite on the lower level, and a garage studio—all of which have been carefully designed to blend effortlessly with the existing structure.
The result, according to the property description, is “a hidden celebrity-owned compound, an idyllic California retreat set just moments from the commercial offerings of Los Feliz and the Hollywood Hills.”
“Surrounded by mature landscaping including soaring palm trees that highlight the thoughtful architecture, the property is an idyllic California retreat set just moments from the best dining, shopping, and entertainment of Los Feliz and the Hollywood Hills,” the listing description states.
Upon entering the home, guests are greeted with an expansive living area that features wooden beams on the ceiling, French doors that open up to the balcony, a cozy fireplace, and a sage green bar.
The press release describes, “The living room has soaring vaulted ceilings and windowed doors inviting natural light and breathtaking views, complete with a newly built bar area featuring marble countertops and a built-in wine fridge.”
The lounging space also offers “direct access” to the outdoor courtyard.
Moving into the kitchen, there is a green marble island brown cabinetry and state-of-the-art appliances.
“The kitchen is both functional and beautiful, anchored by a statement island featuring green quartzite stone, and a long picture window allowing in the striking city views. Additional features include custom cabinetry, Viking rangetop and fridge, Bosch dishwasher, and a spacious walk-in pantry,” reads the press release.
Adjacent to that space is the dining room, which boasts enough space for a large table and is situated next to French doors, allowing natural light to flood inside.
Heading upstairs, guests will find two large bedrooms that each boast their own walk-in closet and share a spacious bathroom with geometric tiles and a large soaking tub.
“The lower level features two additional bedrooms, including a newly built primary suite occupying its own wing, with a built-in office, substantial walk-in closet, and its own private deck and seating area,” adds the press release.
Meanwhile, the primary bathroom is the epitome of luxury thanks to its emerald tiles, walk-in shower, and a large soaking tub.
“A spacious laundry room with built-in drying racks, a generous farmhouse sink, storage cabinetry, and a side-by-side washer and dryer completes the lower level.
“The lower level’s rear deck spans the length of the home, overlooking a verdant lower yard, replete with mature hedging, a lemon tree, and an elevated lounge area ideal for relaxing or hosting,” notes the press release.
Although the interior of the property is every bit of luxury, the outdoor area is the “heart” of the property thanks to its outdoor shower, outdoor kitchen, and raised lounging deck.
“The romantic outdoor dining area sits adjacent to the pool, surrounded by walls of jasmine under a pergola,” reads the press release.
Adjacent to the resort-style pool, is the fully soundproof studio, which comes complete with high ceilings and natural light, and can be used as a workspace, guest quarters, and more.
“Located near Hollywood Dell and in the Los Feliz Oaks, the home is a six-minute walk from Franklin Village favorites, scenic hiking trails, and some of the best dining and shopping in both Hollywood and Los Feliz, offering a rare blend of privacy, style, and access to the city’s most sought-after destinations,” notes the press release.
In 2020, the actress opened the doors to her sprawling space as she lifted the lid on the inspiration behind its design.
“I was inspired by my grandfather’s place in the South of France, so I went for that rustic Mediterranean feel—a lot of wood and stone—and worked in a Moroccan vibe,” she explained.
Describing her style as “Moroccan and rustic with a bit of modern elegance,” she told People, “I love to mix and match various styles to form one cohesive look in my home.”
She also dished out some tips for renovating your own space, telling fans, “You don’t have to do it all in one day. Start with the key pieces and build outward.”