In late May of this year, actress Stockard Channing listed this disarmingly lovely 1956-built cottage in the upper reaches of Laurel Canyon for $2.495 million. Less than a month later, a sale was all wrapped up, with a lovely bow for Ms. Channing: a $2.7 million sale price.

It’s easy to see why a small bidding war resulted; the property is an unmitigated charmer, with edge-of-wild tropical landscaping, an authentic bohemian feel, and splendid views of the hills that augment the intensely private living style.

The house extends to 2,157 square feet, with three bedrooms and four baths in its single floor of living space. The interiors have plenty of details to offer the discerning eye—stained glass, pleasingly weathered wood, and vaulted ceilings and a fireplace with a raised hearth in the common area—but the exterior living spaces are just as compelling; the little jungle of a terra-cotta terrace beyond the living room’s sliding glass door is a gem, and outside the glass panes of the master balcony’s double doors all one can see is flora.

The hillside location allows for views from the main outdoor living area, which features a freeform pool as a centerpiece. An unusually arresting little property; one can understand why Ms. Channing called it home for more than three decades.