California Estates Remain Coveted Amongst Famous Homeowners
Written by: Olivia Nerpouni
In the California World of celebrity real estate, all modern-day chateaus are expressive statements of style, luxury, and custom eye for aesthetic living. These homes typically reflect the unique passions of their famous owners, illuminating to the world their relationship with refined architectural and interior design skills. The Golden State is charmed by sustainable new-age farmhouses and sleek oceanfront mansions: these celebrity homes lend a peek into the stunning realms of high-end real estate in Los Angeles (and beyond).
Notably, Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have redefined sustainable living with their one-of-a-kind Los Angeles farmhouse. Tucked away in a private sector of Beverly Hills, their modern farmhouse reflects the couple’s connection to sustainability and eco-friendly living. Over the course of five years, they quietly built the estate from scratch on a six-acre plot, connecting the original main house and barn to make them into a guesthouse and entertainment area and adding a freestanding barbecue pavilion on the back. Formally designed by Howard Backen of Backen & Gillam Architects, the Kunis-Kutcher residence uses reclaimed wood, board-form concrete, and glass to generate the sense of rustic charm and modern luxury that the farmhouse exudes. The timber, salvaged from an old Wonder Bread factory, adds a touch of history and authenticity to the property, while the solar-powered energy system demonstrates their dedication to sustainable living. The home, complete with a backyard pool, is valued between $8 and $14 million, making it both a financial and environmental investment.
For nearly $21 million, Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz became the historic new patrons of the iconic Razor House in 2019. Adding personal touches to the property, this architectural masterpiece is located on the cliffs of La Jolla, California, and spans 11,545 square feet – reflecting a blend of Brutalist style design with airy minimalism. Constructed from white concrete, stainless steel, stone, walnut, and glass, the Razor House is a marvel of modern design. Rooftop terraces offer breathtaking ocean views, while an infinity pool appears to merge seamlessly with the horizon at sunset. Inside, sleek wooden staircases bordered by glass walls provide panoramic views of the estate and the clear blue sky. This home is a perfect blend of art and architecture, where each element complements the stunning natural surroundings.
Supermodel Naomi Campbell’s Kenyan retreat in Malindi is a unique sanctuary of natural light and earthy elegance. After her first visit to Malindi in 1994, Campbell fell in love with the country’s tropical charm and purchased her property there in 1999 to escape the fast-paced lifestyle of New York and London. The home’s design gives off a humble opulence, with an earthy palette and furniture sourced locally from Malindi, as well as pieces from Marrakesh and Senegal. The estate has four resort-style pools, imported and authentic African furnishings, as well as a spa treatment facility - making it a grandiose yet peaceful haven. While the exact purchase price remains undisclosed, the home’s extravagant features and prime location undoubtedly place it among the high-value properties. Campbell continues to return to the home whenever she needs time to relax in the wilderness.
Another architectural marvel, burlesque icon Dita Von Teese has created a unique sanctuary in Los Angeles that is worth approximately $3 million. Known for her love of antiques and taxidermy, Von Teese transformed a traditional Tudor Revival-style house into a vintage wonderland that mirrors her maximalist aesthetic and vintage punk-pinup persona. Every room in her home is filled with furniture and collectibles, creating a richly textured environment. Despite having a large swimming pool, Von Teese rarely uses it, preferring instead to relax in one of the vintage patio lounge chairs she has refurbished herself. Her pool house, styled as an old-fashioned pub, is complete with old wooden chairs, a red leather sofa, Toby Jugs, and a bar, all reminiscent of the 1920s and 30s. The dark-colored furniture and thick fabrics further emphasize the vintage charm she adores, and the unique style of her home stands out from more modern takes on celebrity real estate.
Celebrity homes often go beyond mere luxury to serve as extensions of their owners’ passions. Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis’ sustainable farmhouse, Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz’s futuristic Razor House, Naomi Campbell’s serene Kenyan retreat, and Dita Von Teese’s vintage-inspired haven each showcase unique architectural styles and interior design trends. These homes serve as immersive experiences that offer a glimpse into the lives and tastes of the unique figures who own them. As real estate continues to evolve, these stunning residences set the bar for what it means to live in a refined state of success.