Designer Nina Takesh Transforms 1950s Beverly Hills Time Capsule Into $4.7M Modern Gem
1950s Beverly Hills Home Once Owned by Batman Director Gets Contemporary Makeover
A classic Beverly Hills property with Hollywood ties has been given new life, thanks to interior designer Nina Takesh, who transformed a 1950s mid-century home into a modern showpiece now listed for $4.7 million.The nearly 3,000-square-foot home, located in the Beverly Hills Post Office area, was previously owned by Leslie H. Martinson, the prolific film and television director best known for helming the original Batman movie in 1966 and the cult-favorite series Small Wonder.
Takesh purchased the home in August 2023 for $2.25 million, recognizing its untapped potential despite being frozen in time.
Unlocking the Home’s Hollywood Legacy
“This property had been previously owned by one family and one family only,” Takesh told Mansion Global. “I was thrilled to be able to just look at it and then try to understand if it had potential or not.”That potential was rooted not just in layout or location, but in the legacy of its former owner. Martinson directed over 100 TV episodes and feature films throughout his career, including Hot Rod Girl (1956) and dozens of television projects spanning decades. He passed away in 2016 at the age of 101.
Design Vision: Preserving Character, Elevating Style
Takesh approached the renovation with the intent to preserve the soul of the original home while introducing high-design elements for contemporary living.“It’s a clean, organic, one-story contemporary with an open floor plan and a flat backyard with a beautiful pool and outdoor entertaining area,” said John Giddins of Sotheby’s International Realty, who holds the listing.
One of the standout original features was a large bar room, which appeared to be connected to a former screening room—a fitting detail for a home with deep cinematic roots.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living in Prime Beverly Hills
Now reimagined, the home boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, organic materials, and curated textures that reflect Takesh’s refined aesthetic. The expansive backyard features a pool, lounging areas, and seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces — ideal for California living.Though a nod to its Hollywood past remains, the home has fully embraced its modern identity — combining comfort, luxury, and architectural clarity in one of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods.
From Time Capsule to Market Treasure
The $4.7 million asking price reflects both the home’s extensive transformation and its unique backstory. Its close proximity to Rodeo Drive and downtown Beverly Hills adds even more appeal to potential buyers seeking exclusivity and design pedigree.With Nina Takesh’s vision and Leslie Martinson’s legacy woven into its walls, this home is more than just a stylish update — it's a rare blend of Hollywood heritage and high-concept living.
