A Voluminous Loft in a Landmark Long Beach Theater Hits the Market for $878K

Perched high in the 1920s Ebell Theatre—just blocks from the beach—the converted loft comes with 18-foot-tall ceilings and a private rooftop patio.

Text by

Kathryn M.

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Nearly one hundred years ago, the Ebell Theatre in Long Beach, California, was an entertainment hotspot. Designed and built in 1924 by C.T. McGrew and Clark Philip, the 50,000-square-foot cinema attracted film buffs and moviegoers from both near and far, spellbinding visitors with its sculpted Churrigueresque facade and elaborate Spanish–style interior. While the building suffered extensive earthquake damage in the early 1930s, it was soon revived and went on to operate commercially as a movie theater into the ’50s.

Recognized as a historic landmark by the city of Long Beach, the Ebell Theatre was designed and built in 1924 by C.T. McGrew and Clark Philip. Eight decades later, it was converted into 11 residential lofts by RPP Architects & Associates. Each comprises a unique floor plan, ranging in size from 1,200 to 2,200 square feet.

Throughout the decades, the 1,000-plus-seat theater changed hands—and names—several times, often being referred to as "Holt’s Ebell," as well as the "Metro Ebell." After ending its 20-year run as a commercial cinema, the historic structure was then used for various events while also serving as the home to the Long Beach Ebell Club—an all-women’s organization which was named after Adrian John Ebell, an acclaimed proponent of women’s education in the U.S. In 2004, however, the theater underwent its most dramatic transformation when it was converted into residential lofts, one of which recently hit the market.

The penthouse loft, currently for sale, is perched in the building’s south-facing corner and measures 1,818 square feet. Remodeled from floor to ceiling, the dwelling features a stark modern interior, complemented by original concrete and exposed structural elements.

Located on the top floor, the south-facing corner loft spreads across two floors, offering nearly 2,000 square feet of living space. The main level features 18-foot-tall ceilings, and an open floor plan that connects the kitchen, living area, and primary bedroom. Sliding glass doors welcome in an abundance of natural light while opening up to a spacious outdoor balcony.

The large, open floor plan merges the main-level living areas, while expansive windows usher in plenty of light.

An industrial spiral staircase bridges the main floor with the second level, which houses an office/guest room, as well as a half-bath. In this space, sliding glass doors create another intimate indoor/outdoor connection, extending access to the private rooftop patio. Keep scrolling to see inside more of the penthouse property, currently listed for $878,000.