Full Breakdown
The Brady Bunch House Achieves Landmark Status in Los Angeles
3/9/2026, 6:45:54 AM
Historic Designation and Cultural Significance
On March 4, 2026, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously voted to designate the iconic Brady Bunch house, located at 11222 Dilling Street in Studio City, as a Historic-Cultural Monument. This designation marks the first time a property in Los Angeles has received landmark protection specifically for its significance as a filming location outside of a studio lot. The house, built in 1959 by architect Harry M. Londelius, served as the exterior backdrop for the beloved sitcom "The Brady Bunch," which aired from 1969 to 1974.
Ownership and Preservation Efforts
Current owner Tina Trahan purchased the property in 2023 for $3.2 million, motivated by her childhood nostalgia for the show. Trahan, who previously worked as an art collector, transformed the house into a pop-culture time capsule, adding approximately 400 props and references to the series. Her husband, Chris Albrecht, a former HBO executive, initially questioned the purchase, believing it was an impractical investment. However, Trahan's vision extended beyond personal ownership; she aimed to preserve the house for future generations of fans.
Concerned about the house's future, Trahan embarked on a two-year campaign to secure landmark status, collaborating with architectural historian Heather Goers to navigate the complex approval process through various city commissions. The successful designation not only protects the house from demolition but also limits major alterations, ensuring its historical integrity.
Renovation and Public Engagement
The house underwent significant renovations in 2018 when HGTV purchased it for $3.5 million and invested an additional $1.9 million to recreate the show's iconic interior as part of the miniseries "A Very Brady Renovation." This renovation included the addition of a floating staircase and a retro kitchen, aligning the property more closely with the fictional Brady home depicted on television.
Since acquiring the house, Trahan has opened it for public tours, generating funds for charities such as No Kid Hungry and the John Ritter Foundation. The tours, branded as "The Brady Experience," have attracted fans from various generations, reinforcing the show's enduring legacy.
Broader Implications and Community Response
The landmark status of the Brady Bunch house reflects a growing recognition of the cultural significance of television landmarks. Adrian Scott Fine, president of the Los Angeles Conservancy, emphasized the importance of preserving such sites, stating, "Long before it became a pop-culture pilgrimage site... the Brady Bunch House helped shape America’s vision of family life." The designation ensures that the house remains a part of Los Angeles' narrative, allowing fans to continue visiting and celebrating its history.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have to have it.” — Tina Trahan, Owner of the Brady Bunch House
- “It just made me realize, what if I get hit by a bus tomorrow? Is there anything I can do to preserve this?” — Tina Trahan
- “To have it designated like this makes it all the sweeter.” — Adrian Scott Fine, President, L.A. Conservancy
Conclusion
The Brady Bunch house's designation as a Historic-Cultural Monument not only preserves a significant piece of television history but also highlights the ongoing connection between pop culture and community identity. As fans continue to visit and engage with the property, its status as a cultural icon is solidified for future generations.
