EAST LAURELWOOD
History of East Laurelwood
Introduction to East Laurelwood
Welcome to East Laurelwood, one of Studio City’s most cherished neighborhoods, and a place we at Misraje Real Estate Partners know better than anyone. Located on the east side of Laurel Canyon, East Laurelwood is separated from its western counterpart by more than just a busy road—it stands apart with its unique character, rich history, and breathtaking views. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, this website is designed to help you discover what makes East Laurelwood truly special.
As a team of real estate agents who live and breathe East Laurelwood, Karen and I, Jack Misraje, take pride in our in-depth knowledge of this community. East Laurelwood was developed in the 1960s during a time of rapid suburban growth, and it quickly became a sought-after retreat for those wanting to live close to the city without sacrificing the serenity of a suburban lifestyle. With its custom-built homes, country living atmosphere, and proximity to urban conveniences, East Laurelwood offers the best of both worlds.
Throughout this website, you'll find a comprehensive history of East Laurelwood, stories of its development, and details that highlight why this neighborhood has remained one of the most desirable in the Valley. We invite you to explore and learn more, whether you’re interested in the original floor plans, the community’s architectural diversity, or just looking for your next home in the area.
If you're considering buying or selling in East Laurelwood, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. At Misraje Real Estate Partners, we don’t just work here—we live here, and we know East Laurelwood inside and out. Let us help you navigate this wonderful neighborhood with confidence and ease.
The Vision of East Laurelwood (1960s)
Growth and Expansion of East Laurelwood
Preservation and Modern Day East Laurelwood
Real Estate Ads: A Glimpse into the Past
East Laurelwood Today
Embrace the East Laurelwood Lifestyle
The ads highlighted the range of luxury features that East Laurelwood homes offered, including built-in appliances, game rooms, custom wet bars, and expansive windows designed to showcase the stunning views of the San Fernando Valley. Some homes were described as “Nature’s Penthouse in the Sky,” emphasizing their elevated location and peaceful surroundings. The combination of spacious floor plans and high-end finishes appealed to families looking for a blend of suburban tranquility and modern convenience.
As more homes were built and the community grew, the real estate ads began to emphasize the exclusivity of East Laurelwood, promoting it as a neighborhood where buyers weren’t just purchasing a home—they were investing in a lifestyle. The increasing home prices reflected the neighborhood’s growing prestige and desirability, with ads showcasing the perfect balance between country living and city convenience.
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, Karen and I have a deep understanding of what makes East Laurelwood special, from its historical beginnings to its present-day appeal. We’ve studied these early real estate ads and know exactly what continues to make this neighborhood highly sought after. If you’re looking to buy or sell in East Laurelwood, we have the expertise and local knowledge to guide you through the process.
To see some of the original ads and floor plans that shaped East Laurelwood, click here to view them in the Development History section of our website. And if you’re ready to explore the opportunities in this exclusive neighborhood, contact us today to get started.
The homes, priced between $18,000 and $25,000 at the time, were a rare opportunity for buyers to secure a prime property with panoramic views. Each house was custom-built with spacious layouts and cutting-edge features for the era—built-in appliances, expansive windows, and ample room for landscaping. East Laurelwood quickly developed into a coveted area where families could thrive in a peaceful, well-connected neighborhood.
We know that East Laurelwood isn’t just about beautiful homes—it’s about a way of life. As real estate agents who specialize in this area, Karen and I are committed to helping you find a home that fits your lifestyle in a community that’s just minutes from the city but feels worlds away. If you're interested in learning more about what makes East Laurelwood special, click here to view the original floor plans and get a glimpse of the architectural vision that shaped this beautiful neighborhood.
If you’re looking for a home in East Laurelwood or considering selling, Misraje Real Estate Partners has the local expertise you need. We don’t just sell homes here—we know them inside and out. Let us guide you through the process with the same care and dedication that have made us trusted partners in the community for years.
East Laurelwood is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a place where history, community, and modern living come together to create an exceptional way of life. From its early days of development in the 1960s to the vibrant, thriving community it is today, East Laurelwood has remained one of the most sought-after locations in the San Fernando Valley. Its architectural diversity, scenic beauty, and perfect blend of suburban tranquility with city convenience make it an extraordinary place to call home.
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, Karen and I have a deep connection to this community. We understand what makes East Laurelwood so special and have dedicated ourselves to helping homeowners and prospective buyers navigate this unique market. Whether you're looking to move into the neighborhood or you're considering selling, our expertise ensures that you’ll make the most informed decisions.
As a top real estate team, we know that success comes from understanding the product inside and out, and no one knows East Laurelwood better than we do. From its historical significance to its modern appeal, we are proud to offer the insight and knowledge needed to guide you through every step of your real estate journey.
Explore East Laurelwood today. Browse through the photo gallery, explore the interactive map, and learn more about this incredible neighborhood. And when you’re ready to take the next step—whether buying or selling—contact us at Misraje Real Estate Partners. We’re here to help you find your place in this wonderful community.
East Laurelwood is where history meets modern living. Let us help you make it your home.
The Laurel Canyon Freeway Controversy
As East Laurelwood expanded in the 1960s and 1970s, it became a highly desirable neighborhood. Families flocked to the area, attracted by its custom-built homes, scenic views, and proximity to both nature and the city. However, this rapid growth also brought challenges, particularly when it came to the local schools.
Originally, East Laurelwood children attended Carpenter Avenue Elementary School, just two miles away in Studio City. But as more homes were built and families moved in, overcrowding became a significant issue. By 1964, the school could no longer accommodate all the students from both East and West Laurelwood, leading to a contentious decision. East Laurelwood children were reassigned to Colfax Avenue Elementary School in North Hollywood, located four miles away, while West Laurelwood families continued to attend Carpenter, with a bus service conveniently picking up children throughout their neighborhood.
This decision caused an uproar among East Laurelwood parents, many of whom were unhappy that their children would have to travel farther to attend Colfax. The situation felt especially unfair given that West Laurelwood children remained at Carpenter. For East Laurelwood families who preferred to keep their children at Carpenter, the only option was to secure a special permit and provide their own transportation, a challenge that many found difficult to manage.
The issue of school zoning became a significant point of tension in the community, but East Laurelwood continued to grow despite these hurdles. The neighborhood’s homes, marketed as “The Bel Air" of the Valley, were highly sought after for their spacious designs and country living appeal, offering the perfect blend of suburban peace and urban convenience.
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, Karen and I understand the history of East Laurelwood’s development inside and out. Whether you’re buying a home or considering selling, our deep knowledge of the area’s past and present makes us the ideal partners for your real estate journey. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with all your East Laurelwood real estate needs.
Kids in the early 70s are lined up in Laurelwood, waiting for the school bus to arrive.
Laurelwood kids in the early 70s on the neighborhood bus to school.
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, we believe that to be a top real estate agent, you need to know your product inside and out—and when it comes to East Laurelwood, we certainly do. As residents and specialists in the area, we’ve studied its rich history, seen its development firsthand, and understand the unique appeal that continues to make it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the Valley.
East Laurelwood’s story began in the early 1960s, when developers envisioned this hillside retreat as a peaceful escape for families looking to be close to Studio City and Hollywood while enjoying the serenity of suburban living. The area was marketed as "The Bel Air" of the Valley, known for its scenic views and elevated lifestyle, offering country living with city convenience. Homebuyers were captivated by the promise of this new community, drawn to its blend of modern amenities and natural beauty.
The homes, priced between $18,000 and $25,000 at the time, were a rare opportunity for buyers to secure a prime property with panoramic views. Each house was custom-built with spacious layouts and cutting-edge features for the era—built-in appliances, expansive windows, and ample room for landscaping. East Laurelwood quickly developed into a coveted area where families could thrive in a peaceful, well-connected neighborhood.
We know that East Laurelwood isn’t just about beautiful homes—it’s about a way of life. As real estate agents who specialize in this area, Karen and I are committed to helping you find a home that fits your lifestyle in a community that’s just minutes from the city but feels worlds away. If you're interested in learning more about what makes East Laurelwood special, click here to view the original floor plans and get a glimpse of the architectural vision that shaped this beautiful neighborhood.
If you’re looking for a home in East Laurelwood or considering selling, Misraje Real Estate Partners has the local expertise you need. We don’t just sell homes here—we know them inside and out. Let us guide you through the process with the same care and dedication that have made us trusted partners in the community for years.
East Laurelwood has grown into one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the San Fernando Valley, blending its rich history with modern-day appeal. The homes here, many of which date back to the 1960s and 1970s, continue to draw new families who appreciate the area’s combination of architectural charm, natural beauty, and proximity to the city. Though much has changed over the years, East Laurelwood has maintained the peaceful, community-focused atmosphere that first attracted homeowners decades ago.
Today, East Laurelwood is a neighborhood where modern conveniences and historical preservation coexist. Many of the original homes have been carefully maintained or updated to include contemporary amenities like energy-efficient upgrades, open-concept floor plans, and state-of-the-art kitchens. These homes still retain their mid-century roots, with large windows that frame panoramic views of the Valley and outdoor living spaces that celebrate the area’s connection to nature. For those seeking something more cutting-edge, newer homes have been built that reflect the latest in architectural design while still blending seamlessly into the neighborhood’s landscape.
East Laurelwood’s residents enjoy easy access to both natural beauty and urban convenience. Nestled in the hills, the neighborhood offers a sense of tranquility and privacy, but it’s only a short drive to the shops, restaurants, and entertainment options in Studio City and Hollywood. The proximity to Laurel Canyon Boulevard and major freeways ensures that residents can enjoy the best of both worlds—a serene home life with quick access to the heart of Los Angeles.
The community spirit that helped shape East Laurelwood during its early days continues to thrive. Neighbors take pride in their homes and work together to preserve the unique character of the area. From community events to neighborhood watch programs, East Laurelwood remains a place where residents are invested in maintaining a high quality of life for everyone.
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, we’re proud to be a part of this community. Karen and I have spent years working with East Laurelwood homeowners, and we know the neighborhood inside and out. Whether you’re looking to buy a home in this beautiful area or sell a property that’s part of its history, we have the experience and local expertise to guide you every step of the way.
East Laurelwood is a neighborhood where history meets modern-day living, and there’s no better time to make it your home. Contact us today to find out how we can help you take the next step in this extraordinary community.
The real estate ads from the 1960s and 1970s provide a unique window into the development of East Laurelwood, capturing the excitement surrounding this neighborhood as it grew into a highly desirable community. East Laurelwood was frequently referred to as “The Bel Air" of the Valley, a place where families could enjoy luxury living with scenic views and modern amenities, all while being conveniently close to Studio City and Hollywood.
Initially, lots in East Laurelwood were sold at prices ranging from $18,000 to $25,000, offering prospective homeowners a chance to build custom homes on spacious, elevated sites. These lots provided ample room for both construction and landscaping, but it was the homes themselves that were the main draw. The custom-built houses were priced higher, often ranging from $47,000 to $66,000, depending on features such as panoramic views, swimming pools, and large family rooms. One ad even went so far as to offer a free car—a brand-new 1965 compact car—as part of a home purchase, reflecting the competitive and innovative spirit of the real estate market at the time.
August 16, 1964 Laurelwood real estate ad offering a free compact car with home purchase
Embrace the East Laurelwood Lifestyle
As East Laurelwood has evolved over the decades, the neighborhood has managed to preserve much of its original charm while embracing the modern luxuries that today’s homeowners expect. The architectural diversity and scenic beauty that made the neighborhood so appealing in the 1960s still define it today, with many homes maintaining their mid-century aesthetics while others have been updated or rebuilt to reflect more contemporary designs.
One of the most striking features of East Laurelwood is its architectural preservation. Many original homes remain, showcasing the thoughtful design elements of the time—sprawling floor plans, large windows framing panoramic views, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. These homes retain the character and craftsmanship of their era, with modern renovations often enhancing rather than replacing these timeless features. Homeowners who appreciate the history of the neighborhood have been careful to update with respect to its original architectural vision, maintaining the blend of comfort and luxury that has always defined East Laurelwood.
However, the area hasn’t been frozen in time. As new families move in, many properties have been reimagined with state-of-the-art amenities, energy-efficient upgrades, and modern design elements that fit seamlessly into the neighborhood’s unique hillside landscape. These newer homes provide contemporary comforts while still respecting the area's history and aesthetic. The result is a community that offers the best of both worlds—preserved architectural gems and cutting-edge modern homes.
East Laurelwood continues to be a highly desirable neighborhood, offering the quiet, scenic appeal that it has always been known for. Yet, its proximity to key urban areas like Studio City and Hollywood keeps it connected to the pulse of Los Angeles, making it a perfect location for those who want peace and privacy without sacrificing convenience.
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, we know the ins and outs of East Laurelwood’s evolution. Whether you’re looking for a preserved mid-century home or a modern masterpiece, we have the local expertise and knowledge to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Contact us today to explore the unique opportunities East Laurelwood has to offer, whether you’re buying or selling.
East Laurelwood is a community where history meets modern-day luxury. Let us help you find your place in this timeless neighborhood.
In the 1970s, East Laurelwood faced a significant challenge that threatened its peaceful atmosphere and scenic charm—the proposed construction of the Laurel Canyon Freeway. This freeway was planned to cut through the Santa Monica Mountains, linking the San Fernando Valley with Los Angeles International Airport. The proposed route would have passed through key areas of East and West Laurelwood, altering the neighborhood landscape and impacting property values. The controversy surrounding this project united residents of East Laurelwood, West Laurelwood, and surrounding communities in a fight to preserve their way of life.
The freeway’s proposed route was met with intense opposition from local homeowners, who saw it as a major disruption to the quiet, suburban lifestyle they had worked so hard to build. Many residents feared that the freeway would not only increase traffic and noise but also destroy some of the most scenic and valuable real estate in the area. Councilmembers and neighborhood associations rallied to block the project, leading to years of contentious meetings and heated debates.
Among the most vocal opponents of the freeway was Councilman James Potter Jr., who described the project as a form of “gerrymandering,” favoring certain areas while forcing unwanted infrastructure through others. He highlighted the disproportionate impact the freeway would have on neighborhoods like East Laurelwood, which had already experienced significant growth and development. Residents feared the potential devaluation of their homes and the loss of the quiet, hillside environment that had drawn them to the area.
Opposition grew stronger as community leaders, local officials, and homeowners’ associations from Studio City to the west side of Los Angeles banded together. They argued that the freeway would compromise the scenic hillsides, increase air pollution, and permanently alter the unique character of the neighborhood. After years of pushback, the proposal was ultimately shelved, marking a major victory for East Laurelwood and its neighboring communities.
The successful effort to block the freeway cemented East Laurelwood’s reputation as a neighborhood that values community and preservation. It also demonstrated the power of residents to shape the future of their neighborhood and maintain the quiet, suburban lifestyle that had attracted so many families in the first place.
At Misraje Real Estate Partners, we understand the deep history behind East Laurelwood’s fight to preserve its unique charm. The freeway controversy is just one example of how the residents have worked to protect their neighborhood, and it’s one of the many reasons why East Laurelwood remains a special place to live. If you’re considering buying or selling in East Laurelwood, you can trust that Karen and I know this neighborhood better than anyone. Contact us today to explore how we can help you find your dream home or successfully sell your property in this beloved community.
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The proposed Laurel Canyon Freeway, stretching between Slauson Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, sparked controversy over its potential routes. Various options, including connections through Grey Areas, Hollywood, and the Ventura Freeway junctions, were being considered.
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