The Playboy Mansion, an enduring symbol of extravagance, lies nestled in the Holmby Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, just a stone’s throw from the famed Beverly Hills. This iconic mansion was the dwelling and heart of the Playboy empire, lovingly cultivated by the visionary Hugh Hefner, the founder of Playboy magazine.
Once a hub of pleasure and leisure, the mansion radiated opulence through every nook and corner, from the game room and zoo to the tennis court and the renowned grotto. Yet, despite its notorious past, it fell into a state of disrepair following Hefner’s passing in 2017.
The Playboy Mansion’s New Era Under Daren Metropoulos
In 2016, a new chapter unfolded for the Playboy Mansion with the acquisition by Daren Metropoulos, a savvy businessman and co-owner of Hostess Brands. The mansion was purchased for an astounding $100 million, but Metropoulos agreed to allow Hefner to continue living there until his passing.
However, the transition was not without its challenges. Following Hefner’s demise, the mansion faced the threat of looting and deterioration. But Metropoulos, fueled by his passion for preservation, undertook the task of restoring the mansion’s former splendor.
A Mansion Resurrected
After Hefner’s passing, the Playboy Mansion was far from forgotten. Metropoulos was resolute in his decision to renovate the mansion, preserving its historical significance and unique heritage. Room by room, he meticulously restored the property, maintaining the integrity of the original design.
Interestingly, the notorious “sex grotto” seems to remain untouched throughout these restoration efforts, furthering the intrigue surrounding the mansion’s legacy. Today, the mansion stands not as a relic of a bygone era, but as a symbol of revival and resilience.
Inside the Playboy Mansion: A Legacy Preserved
The Playboy Mansion encapsulates Hefner’s love for luxury and entertainment. A walk inside reveals a game room, a zoo, an aviary, a grotto, and a tennis court. There’s also a wine cellar, a basketball court, and a screening room featuring a built-in pipe organ. The mansion stands as a testament to Hefner’s passion for fine living and his eclectic tastes, serving as a reminder of the man behind the iconic Playboy brand.
The Playboy Mansion: An Iconic Legacy in New Hands
Today, the Playboy Mansion belongs to Daren Metropoulos, a notable figure in the business world and son of billionaire investor Dean Metropoulos. With the mansion’s acquisition in 2016, he has added this landmark property to his family’s impressive portfolio.
As the mansion’s current custodian, Metropoulos is committed to preserving its grandeur and history. His dedication to refurbishment projects underscores his respect for the mansion’s storied past. With Metropoulos at the helm, the Playboy Mansion continues to stand tall, reflecting its rich past and a promising future.
