The world-famous singer, actor, activist, elephant savior, and incredible talent known as Cher possesses an iconic home that is perched on the most perfect bluff in Malibu.
It is a landmark that all who pass recognize as the home of another icon: the home of the Academy Award–winning singer, actor, activist, and elephant savior.
I have had the tremendous distinction (and unquestionable joy) of assisting with its recent reincarnations, which is another one of her many achievements, and the house itself is another one of her many successes.
The history of this amazing structure begins a very long time before I ever had the opportunity to enjoy the zen-like refuge that it is today, which is packed with Asian artwork worthy of a museum and furnishings that were constructed just for the space.
It took Cher a number of years to zero in on the ideal spot in Malibu, which turned out to be a picture-perfect setting that she had frequently driven by prior to making her own in the year 1998.
Following that, it took almost five years to turn the enchanted location, which is perched high above the Pacific Ocean, into the perfect house.
The house is a product of her years of collecting and travel, and it is a reflection of her one-of-a-kind taste as well as her lifelong interest in architecture and design.
At the drawing board, she brought hundreds of tear sheets that she had ripped out of various publications.
The design of the mansion makes reference to Venetian palazzos, the famous Renaissance villas of Europe, and the Moorish influences of the Alhambra castle.
The remarkable estate of 16,000 square feet was constructed by a team led by builder Wallace Tutt III.
It was positioned to look out over an area stretching from Point Dume to Santa Monica along the coast and all the way to Catalina Island.
Huge picture windows allow for breathtaking views throughout the day, from dawn to sunset. “Every room has two different views of the ocean,” Cher explains. “The warmth of this home will envelop you completely.”
The finest materials available were utilized, including limestone and marble brought in from Italy and France, doors made of hand-wrought bronze, and bespoke hardware and tiles sourced from Spain and Morocco respectively.
A Venetian marble balustrade from the 18th century that was part of William Randolph Hearst’s collection at San Simeon was recently put up for sale.
Cher first collaborated on the design of the house with designer and lifelong friend Ron Wilson, and from the very beginning, the home has been packed with Cher’s own unique touches.
I was offered the opportunity to assist in updating the residence and sourcing numerous new gems approximately sixteen years ago.
I took advantage of this opportunity. Together, we revised all of the finishes so that they reflected her unique style, which is characterized by sumptuous comfort, theatrical elegance, and a color palette that is ageless.