Elegant $8.2 Million Dina Merrill House in East Hampton Draws Luxury Buyers

You know, when people talk about legendary celebrity homes, the Dina Merrill House always pops up. It’s not just another fancy place in the Hamptons—it’s a slice of Hollywood history right by the ocean. This house has seen decades of glitz, family gatherings, and high-society events. But what makes the Dina Merrill House stand out? Is it the private beach, the unique design, or the stories woven into its walls? Let’s take a walk through this iconic estate and see why everyone’s still talking about it, even years after Dina Merrill herself waved goodbye. There’s something about this house that just draws people in—maybe it’s the blend of old money charm and relaxed, beachy vibes. Whatever it is, the Dina Merrill House isn’t just a home; it’s a legend in its own right, and its story is as captivating as any movie Dina ever starred in.

Who is Dina Merrill?

So, who was Dina Merrill? She was more than just a name on a mailbox. Born Nedenia Marjorie Hutton, she was the daughter of Marjorie Merriweather Post, the cereal heiress, and E.F. Hutton, the Wall Street legend. That means Dina grew up surrounded by luxury, but she didn’t just rest on her family’s fortune. Instead, she made her mark as an actress, starring in over a hundred films and TV shows from the 1950s all the way to the 2000s. She was known for her elegance, her philanthropy, and her cool, classic style. People often called her “the new Grace Kelly,” and it’s easy to see why. Dina’s life was a blend of Hollywood glamour and old-school East Coast class. And, of course, her homes—especially the Dina Merrill House in East Hampton—became symbols of that unique lifestyle.

Dina Merrill House & Location

Right in the heart of East Hampton Village, the Dina Merrill House sits on 8 West Dune Lane. This spot isn’t just any patch of sand—it’s prime real estate, with a full acre of land and private access to the beach. It’s the kind of place where you can hear the waves from your bedroom window and walk straight out to the sand without bumping into a crowd. The house itself is a one-story California contemporary, which is pretty rare for the Hamptons, where most homes are old shingle-style or classic New England. Dina picked this spot back in 1957, and she held onto it for sixty years, making it her go-to summer retreat. It’s close to the Maidstone Club, which is basically the Hamptons’ answer to a royal palace for golf and tennis fans. So, location-wise, the Dina Merrill House is about as good as it gets—private, peaceful, and right in the middle of all the action.

Features of Dina Merrill House

• Private beach access
• 1-acre lot in East Hampton Village
• California contemporary architecture
• Proximity to Maidstone Club
• Open-plan living and dining areas
• Floor-to-ceiling windows with ocean views
• Lush gardens and mature landscaping
• Spacious outdoor patios for entertaining
• Cozy fireplace in the main living room
• Bright, airy bedrooms with beachy decor

House Design and Style

But let’s talk about the design. The Dina Merrill House isn’t your typical Hamptons mansion. While most homes in the area lean toward traditional shingle or colonial styles, Dina’s place is a one-story California contemporary. What does that mean? Think wide-open spaces, big windows, and a layout that lets the sunlight pour in. The house was built in 1957, and it’s got that mid-century modern vibe—simple lines, lots of glass, and a real connection to the outdoors. It’s the kind of place where you can kick off your shoes, let the breeze blow through, and never feel stuffy or formal. Dina wanted a home that felt relaxed but still had a touch of class, and that’s exactly what she got. The style is understated but elegant, with just enough glamour to remind you you’re in a celebrity’s house, but never so much that it feels over the top.

Personal House Touches

Dina didn’t just buy a house and leave it as-is. She put her stamp on every corner, making the Dina Merrill House feel truly personal. For Dina, home was about comfort, family, and a little bit of fun. She loved hosting friends for summer parties, and the open-plan living areas made it easy to go from a quiet morning coffee to a lively dinner with guests. She filled the place with art and keepsakes from her travels, mixing in family heirlooms with modern pieces. And she always kept things light and breezy—no heavy drapes or dark wood here.

• Art from her travels
• Family photos and heirlooms
• Fresh flowers in every room
• Bookshelves packed with classics and scripts
• Cozy throws and pillows for lounging
• Outdoor lanterns for evening beach walks

Interior Design & Highlights

Step inside the Dina Merrill House, and you’ll see what real Hollywood-meets-Hamptons style looks like. The main living room is open and bright, with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the ocean view like a painting. There’s a big, comfy sofa for movie nights, and a fireplace that makes even chilly evenings feel cozy. The dining area flows right into the kitchen, making it perfect for casual meals or big family feasts. Dina loved to cook, so the kitchen is both functional and welcoming, with plenty of counter space and a view of the garden. The bedrooms are simple but stylish, decorated in soft, beachy colors that make you feel like you’re on vacation all year long. And everywhere you look, there’s a sense of calm and comfort—nothing fussy, just good vibes and easy living.

Outdoor House Spaces

If you love the outdoors, the Dina Merrill House is a dream come true. The backyard opens right onto the dunes, so you can wander down to the beach whenever you want. There’s a big patio for summer barbecues, plus lots of little nooks for reading or sunbathing. The gardens are lush but low-maintenance, with native plants and mature trees that give you plenty of privacy. Dina made sure there was space for everything—morning yoga, afternoon picnics, or just watching the sunset with a glass of wine. And because the house is all on one level, it’s super easy to move from inside to outside without missing a beat. It’s the kind of place where you can let the kids run wild, host a big family reunion, or just enjoy a quiet afternoon listening to the waves.

Market Value and Comparisons

The Dina Merrill House isn’t just famous for its looks—it’s also made headlines for its price tag. When Dina first bought the place in 1957, East Hampton was already a hot spot, but prices have skyrocketed since then. After Dina passed away, the house was sold in 2018 for $8.2 million. That’s a big number, but not surprising for a celebrity estate with private beach access. Compared to other East Hampton celebrity homes, the price is right in the sweet spot—similar properties with ocean views and a bit of history usually go for anywhere between $7 million and $15 million, depending on the market. And if you look at Dina’s other properties, like her childhood mansion in Brookville or the legendary Mar-a-Lago (which she inherited and later sold to Donald Trump), you can see she always had an eye for valuable real estate. The Dina Merrill House has held its value, thanks to its location, design, and the star power attached to Dina’s name.

Other Houses Owned by Dina Merrill

Dina Merrill wasn’t just a one-house wonder. She owned several amazing properties over her lifetime, each with its own story and style.

• Brookville, Long Island Tudor estate (her childhood home)
• Mar-a-Lago, Palm Beach (inherited, then sold to Donald Trump)
• Manhattan apartment (classic New York luxury)
• Sea Cloud yacht (a floating palace for family and friends)
• Brentwood, Los Angeles home (with Ted Hartley)
• Other East Hampton homes, including 108 Egypt Lane and 55 Egypt Close

Conclusion

So, what’s the big deal about the Dina Merrill House? It’s more than just a home—it’s a piece of American celebrity history. From its unique California contemporary design to its unbeatable location on the East Hampton dunes, this house has always been a place where style meets comfort. Dina Merrill made sure every corner reflected her love of family, friends, and easy living. And even now, years after she’s gone, the house still draws attention for its beauty, its stories, and its value. Whether you’re a fan of Hollywood legends, real estate, or just good old-fashioned beach living, the Dina Merrill House is a name worth remembering. It’s a home that proves you don’t need to be flashy to be unforgettable—you just need a little bit of heart, a lot of style, and a view that takes your breath away