When you think of rock ‘n’ roll royalty, one name stands above all others—Elvis Presley. The King of Rock and Roll didn’t just revolutionize music; he transformed American culture itself. From his swiveling hips to his velvet voice, Elvis became more than an entertainer—he became a phenomenon that continues to captivate us decades after his passing.
Among the many home properties Elvis owned during his legendary career, his Elvis Presley House in Beverly Hills holds a special place in music history. This wasn’t just another celebrity mansion; it was a sanctuary where the King retreated from the spotlight, entertained Hollywood’s elite, and created some of his most memorable moments away from Graceland.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elvis Aaron Presley |
| Date of Birth | January 8, 1935 |
| Place of Birth | Tupelo, Mississippi, USA |
| Parents | Vernon Presley (father), Gladys Presley (mother) |
| Marriage | Priscilla Beaulieu Presley (married May 1, 1967, divorced October 9, 1973) |
| Children | Lisa Marie Presley (born February 1, 1968) |
| Profession | Singer, Musician, Actor, U.S. Soldier |
| Military Service | Served in the US Army from 1958 to 1960 |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.82 m) |
| Death Date | August 16, 1977 |
| Death Place | Memphis, Tennessee, USA |
| Net Worth at Death | Around $5 million (equivalent to $20 to 26 million today); estate net worth now over $500 million due to ongoing royalties and licensing |
| Current Residence | Deceased; his famous home is Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, which serves as a museum and tourist attraction (about 500,000 visitors annually) |
Have you ever wondered what it was like inside the private world of Elvis Presley? What did his personal space reveal about the man behind the music? Today, we’re taking you on an exclusive journey through the rooms, gardens, and hidden corners of Elvis’s Beverly Hills residence. You’ll discover the architectural marvels, the personal touches that made it uniquely his, and the historical significance that makes this property a true piece of Americana.
Historical Background of Elvis’s Beverly Hills House
The Purchase and Location
In 1967, at the height of his Hollywood career, Elvis Presley made a decision that would add another jewel to his real estate crown. He purchased a stunning property at 1174 Hillcrest Road in the exclusive Trousdale Estates section of Beverly Hills. The timing wasn’t coincidental—Elvis was spending considerable time in Los Angeles filming movies, and he needed a West Coast base that matched his superstar status.
The Elvis Presley house in Beverly Hills represented more than just convenience. During the 1960s and early 1970s, Beverly Hills had become the undisputed capital of celebrity living. The neighborhood was experiencing a real estate boom, with property values skyrocketing as Hollywood’s biggest names competed for the most prestigious addresses. Elvis paid approximately $400,000 for the property—a substantial sum that would be worth millions in today’s market.
What made this location particularly appealing? Trousdale Estates offered something that even the King of Rock and Roll craved: privacy. The winding roads, gated entries, and strategic positioning of homes allowed Elvis to enjoy his California lifestyle without the constant intrusion of fans and paparazzi. His neighbors included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and other members of Hollywood royalty, creating an exclusive enclave where celebrities could socialize freely.
The Era and Cultural Context
When Elvis moved into his Beverly Hills estate, he was navigating a fascinating period in his career. The late 1960s found him transitioning from his movie-making phase back to live performances. This house witnessed the planning stages of his legendary 1968 Comeback Special, which would reignite his musical career and remind the world why he was called the King.
The residence became a West Coast Graceland of sorts, hosting gatherings that brought together the biggest names in entertainment. Picture this: Elvis holding court in his living room, with members of the Rat Pack dropping by for impromptu jam sessions. The walls of this house absorbed conversations about changing musical tastes, the evolution of rock and roll, and the cultural revolution sweeping across America.
Notable visitors to the Elvis Beverly Hills house included fellow musicians, Hollywood producers, spiritual advisors, and karate instructors. Elvis was known for his late-night gatherings, where discussions could range from philosophy to the latest recording techniques. The house served as a creative hub where Elvis could explore new ideas away from the more traditional atmosphere of Graceland.
Architectural Style and Exterior Features
Design and Architecture
| Feature | Elvis Presley House (Audubon Drive) | Graceland Mansion |
|---|---|---|
| Address | 1034 Audubon Drive, Memphis, Tennessee | 3734 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, Tennessee |
| Architectural Style | One-story ranch style | Colonial Revival style |
| Architects | Not specifically mentioned | Furbringer and Ehrman (Memphis architectural firm) |
| Year Built / Owned | Lived there 1956–1957 | Built 1939; Elvis bought 1957 |
| Size | Single-story, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two-car garage | 17,552 sq ft, 23 rooms, 8 bedrooms and bathrooms |
| Foundation | Concrete foundation | Stone veneer, stucco rear |
| Exterior Features | Originally green, then white, brick and metal fence | White columns, tan Tishomingo limestone facade, marble lions at entrance |
| Special Features | Largest residential pool in Memphis in 1956 (removed 2006) | Famous Jungle Room with waterfall, racquetball court, music-themed wrought iron gate |
| Purchase Price (Year) | Not specified (owned while Elvis was rising star) | $102,500 (1957) ~ $1.14 million in 2023 dollars |
| Historical Significance | First family home after fame; move before Graceland | Primary home from 1957 until Elvis’s death in 1977, now a major tourist attraction |
| Current Use | Owned by Mike Curb Family Foundation for music education | Open to public as museum and tourist site |
| Notable | Pool and garage installed by Elvis | Jungle Room, trophy building, graves of Elvis and family |
The architectural brilliance of Elvis’s Beverly Hills house perfectly captured the mid-century modern aesthetic that defined luxury California living. Designed in the contemporary style popular among homes in Trousdale Estates, the residence featured clean lines, expansive glass walls, and seamless integration between indoor and outdoor spaces.
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The house sprawled across approximately 5,000 square feet, with a single-story layout that emphasized horizontal living—a hallmark of California modernism. The flat roof design, punctuated by dramatic overhangs, provided both shade and architectural interest. Large sliding glass doors and floor-to-ceiling windows invited natural light to flood the interior spaces while offering breathtaking views of the Los Angeles basin below.
What made this design particularly suited to Elvis’s lifestyle? The open floor plan allowed for easy flow during parties and gatherings. The architecture spoke to a new way of living—casual yet sophisticated, private yet perfect for entertaining. The use of natural materials, such as stone and wood, created a warm atmosphere that balanced the home’s modern elements with a sense of comfort and livability.
Landscaping and Outdoor Spaces
Step outside the Elvis Beverly Hills house, and you’d find yourself in a private oasis that rivaled any luxury resort. The outdoor spaces were as carefully designed as the interior, creating multiple zones for relaxation and entertainment.
The centerpiece was undoubtedly the kidney-shaped swimming pool, a classic feature of Beverly Hills estates from this era. Surrounded by a spacious patio area with built-in seating, the pool became a gathering spot for Elvis and his friends. Can you imagine the King himself lounging poolside, perhaps strumming a guitar while the California sun set over the city below?
The landscaping reflected the desert-modern aesthetic popular in Southern California. Mature palm trees provided privacy and shade, while carefully selected drought-resistant plants created a low-maintenance yet visually striking environment. Elvis had the grounds enhanced with subtle lighting that transformed the garden into a magical space after dark—perfect for those legendary late-night gatherings.
A series of terraced gardens made use of the sloping lot, creating intimate spaces for quiet reflection. Elvis, known for his spiritual seeking, often used these garden areas for meditation and contemplation. The outdoor spaces also included a barbecue area and an outdoor bar, essential features for California entertaining in the 1960s and 70s.
Interior Design and Décor: Room by Room Tour
The Living Room
Walking into the living room of the Elvis Beverly Hills house was like stepping into a perfectly curated blend of glamour and comfort. The space was dominated by a massive stone fireplace that reached from floor to ceiling—a dramatic focal point that anchored the room’s design. Elvis had the area furnished with plush, oversized sofas in rich fabrics that guests to sink in and stay awhile.
The color palette reflected Elvis’s bold personality: deep reds, royal blues, and touches of gold created a regal atmosphere befitting the King. Custom-made velvet drapes framed the enormous windows, allowing Elvis to control the ambiance from bright and airy to intimate and moody. The floors were covered with thick, luxurious carpeting that muffled footsteps and added to the room’s acoustic qualities.
What truly made this space special were Elvis’s personal touches. A white baby grand piano occupied a corner, always ready for impromptu performances. Gold records and awards lined the walls, not in a boastful way, but as a natural part of the décor. Elvis had also installed a state-of-the-art stereo system—cutting edge for its time—with speakers strategically placed to create the perfect listening environment.
The Kitchen and Dining Areas
The kitchen in Elvis’s Beverly Hills home was a marvel of 1960s modern design. Unlike the cozy, traditional kitchen at Graceland, this space embraced the latest in contemporary styling and convenience. Sleek cabinets in warm wood tones lined the walls, while countertops in fashionable laminate patterns provided ample workspace.
Elvis had the kitchen equipped with all the latest appliances: a double oven for preparing large meals, a commercial-grade refrigerator, and even an early dishwasher model. The breakfast nook featured built-in seating with orange vinyl cushions—a bold color choice that reflected the era’s love of vibrant hues. This casual dining area became a favorite spot for Elvis’s morning gatherings with his entourage.
The formal dining room showcased Elvis’s more sophisticated side. A massive glass-topped table could seat twelve comfortably, surrounded by high-backed chairs upholstered in cream leather. Above, a spectacular chandelier—custom-designed with hundreds of crystal drops—casts rainbow patterns across the room when lit. The walls featured mirror panels that made the space feel even larger and more glamorous.
Bedrooms and Private Spaces
The main bedroom in the Elvis Beverly Hills house was Elvis’s private sanctuary. This wasn’t just a place to sleep; it was a carefully designed retreat that reflected his need for comfort and privacy. The room featured a custom-made king-sized bed with an upholstered headboard that reached nearly to the ceiling. The bedding was always the finest quality—silk sheets and cashmere blankets in deep, rich colors.
Elvis had the main suite decorated in a masculine yet luxurious style. Dark wood furniture provided storage and display space for personal items, while thick blackout curtains ensured he could sleep during daylight hours—essential for someone who often kept vampire hours. The room included a sitting area with comfortable chairs and a television—quite advanced for the era—hidden inside a custom cabinet.
The main bathroom was equally impressive. Gold-plated fixtures added a touch of opulence, while the oversized bathtub provided a luxurious space for Elvis to relax and unwind. The shower was enclosed in glass with multiple shower heads—a luxury feature that was rare in residential homes of that period. His-and-hers vanities provided ample space for grooming, featuring Hollywood-style lighting around the mirrors.
Guest bedrooms maintained the home’s luxurious standard while offering their own unique personalities. One room was decorated in soft blues and whites, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors. Another featured bold geometric wallpaper—very fashionable in the late 1960s—and modern furniture that wouldn’t look out of place in a design magazine.
Music and Entertainment Rooms
Perhaps no space in the Elvis Beverly Hills house was more important than the areas dedicated to music and entertainment. Elvis had converted one room into a semi-professional recording space where he could work on new material without the pressure of a formal studio environment. The walls were treated with acoustic panels covered in fabric, and the room contained professional-grade microphones and recording equipment.
The entertainment room was designed for both listening and performing. A custom-built jukebox held Elvis’s favorite records—not just his own, but music that inspired him from gospel to rhythm and blues. Multiple guitars were displayed on wall mounts, always within easy reach for when inspiration struck. The room also featured a high-end reel-to-reel tape system that allowed Elvis to record ideas and listen to session tapes.
What made these spaces truly special was how they reflected Elvis’s democratic approach to music. Unlike formal recording studios, which feature a separation between performer and audience, these rooms invited participation. Friends and fellow musicians would gather here for informal jam sessions that could last until dawn. The setup encouraged creativity and collaboration, with comfortable seating arranged to create an intimate performance space.
Special Memorabilia and Personal Touches
Throughout the Elvis Beverly Hills house, carefully chosen memorabilia told the story of Elvis’s remarkable life and career. In the entrance hall, visitors were greeted by a display case containing his gold and platinum records, arranged chronologically to showcase his artistic evolution. These weren’t just awards; they were milestones in a career that changed music history.
The walls throughout the home featured a curated collection of photographs. Some featured Elvis with fellow entertainers and dignitaries—images that included The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and even President Nixon. Others were more personal: candid shots with family members, photographs from his Army service, and photos capturing quiet moments away from the spotlight. Each picture was carefully framed and positioned to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Elvis’s passion for spiritual and philosophical exploration was evident in his personal library. Shelves held books on religion, philosophy, and self-improvement—subjects that fascinated him throughout his life. First editions and signed copies were interspersed with well-worn paperbacks, indicating that this wasn’t just a display collection but a working library.
Personal touches appeared in unexpected places. A collection of police badges—Elvis was famously fascinated with law enforcement—was displayed in a shadow box. His karate belts and certificates occupied a place of honor, reflecting his dedication to martial arts. Even the ashtrays and decorative objects were chosen with care, many of which were gifts from fans or mementos from his travels.
Elvis’s Beverly Hills House in Popular Culture and Media
The Elvis Beverly Hills house has transcended its role as a private residence to become a cultural landmark in its own right. Over the years, this property has appeared in numerous documentaries about Elvis’s life, serving as a tangible connection to his Hollywood years. Filmmakers have been drawn to the house as a symbol of Elvis’s success and his integration into the entertainment industry’s elite circles.
Television programs exploring celebrity homes have featured the property extensively. Shows like “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” and various Entertainment Tonight segments have given viewers glimpses inside, though always with respect for its historical significance. The house has become a required stop on any serious exploration of Elvis’s life beyond Graceland.
What’s particularly fascinating is how the house has influenced popular culture’s perception of Elvis. While Graceland represents his roots and his connection to the South, the Beverly Hills house symbolizes his conquest of Hollywood and his evolution as an entertainer. Music historians often cite his time in this house as a pivotal period when Elvis was reimagining himself for a new era.
The property has also attracted its share of celebrity visitors even after Elvis’s passing. Musicians making pilgrimages to Los Angeles often request to see the house, viewing it as a shrine to one of music’s most important figures. Some have reported feeling Elvis’s presence still lingering in the rooms where he once lived and created.
Preservation and Current Status of Elvis’s Beverly Hills House
Following Elvis’s death in 1977, the Elvis Beverly Hills house entered a new chapter in its storied history. The property has changed hands several times, with each owner grappling with the responsibility of maintaining a piece of music history. Unlike Graceland, which became a museum, this house has remained a private residence, making its preservation both more challenging and more authentic.
Recent owners have shown remarkable dedication to maintaining the property’s historical integrity. While necessary updates have been made to systems like plumbing and electrical, great care has been taken to preserve the architectural elements and design features that Elvis knew. The current owners understand they’re not just maintaining a house—they’re preserving a piece of cultural heritage.
The question many fans ask is: Can you visit Elvis’s home in Beverly Hills? Unfortunately, as a private residence, the property isn’t open to the public for tours. However, devoted fans can still drive by the address and see the gates that Elvis himself passed through countless times. Some tour companies include the house on their “Hollywood Homes” routes, though viewing is limited to the exterior from the street.
Real estate experts estimate the property’s current value in the tens of millions of dollars—a figure that reflects not just the prime Beverly Hills location but also the Elvis connection. When the house has occasionally appeared on the market, it has generated international interest from collectors, musicians, and Elvis devotees who dream of owning this piece of rock and roll history.
Why Elvis’s Beverly Hills House is a Symbol of Music History
The significance of the Elvis Beverly Hills house extends far beyond its famous former resident. This property represents a pivotal moment in American cultural history , when rock and roll music had not only conquered the radio waves but also the establishment itself. Elvis’s presence in Beverly Hills symbolized the complete acceptance of a musical form that had once been considered dangerous and subversive.
The house stands as a testament to the American Dream in its purest form. Here was a poor boy from Mississippi who, through talent and determination, had earned his place among Hollywood’s elite. Every room, every carefully chosen piece of furniture, every gold record on the wall tells this incredible story of transformation and triumph.
For music historians, the house provides invaluable insights into Elvis’s creative process during a crucial period. The late 1960s and early 1970s saw Elvis reinventing himself, moving from formulaic movies back to the live performances that had made him famous. The Beverly Hills house was where much of this transformation was planned, and it was here that Elvis found the confidence to reclaim his crown as the King of Rock and Roll.
The property also represents the broader cultural shifts of its era. The design, the lifestyle it enabled, and the gatherings it hosted all speak to a time when traditional boundaries were breaking down. In this house, country boys and city slickers, rock and rollers and classical musicians, spiritual seekers and those driven by material success all came together in a uniquely American synthesis.
Where Does Elvis’s Currently Live?
Elvis Presley, who passed away in 1977, does not currently live anywhere as he is deceased.
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