There’s an old adage, « From the ashes, the phoenix shall rise. » Gentlemen, envision a picturesque swath of land nestled in the heart of Malibu, its past interwoven with tales of architectural genius and heartbreaking loss. Here lies a unique opportunity to resurrect a masterpiece that once stood as a testament to the brilliance of the legendary architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.
Along the winding Mulholland Highway, perched on a hundred-acre parcel with panoramic vistas, stood the only Frank Lloyd Wright creation in Malibu, baptized as « Eaglefeather. » Commissioned by the notable Arch and Eleanor Oboler, the estate was no ordinary dwelling. The property showcased Wright’s signature desert stone rubble masonry and his innovative use of wood, designed meticulously to merge with the majestic terrain of Malibu.
Eaglefeather, originally intended to feature a sprawling main house, boasted the gatehouse and Eleanor’s Retreat during its heyday. The estate was not just a house but a sanctuary, complete with a pool, film studio, stables, and a dedicated children’s wing. The master plan by Wright exuded his philosophy that buildings should serve as a bridge between humanity and its environment.
But fate had other plans. In 2018, the notorious Woolsey Fire unleashed its fury upon the Santa Monica mountains. Consuming nearly 100,000 acres, this inferno decimated more of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area than any other conflagration in recorded history, says the National Park Service. Among its casualties was the iconic Eaglefeather.
Now, here lies an unparalleled chance for rebirth. The estate, with a market tag of $7.45 million, beckons visionaries to step forth. Equipped with a functioning well, three septic systems, solar provisions, and a tranquil pond, one stands on the precipice of creating anew. The canvas is set, whether to attempt a faithful reimagining of Wright’s opus or to innovate and breathe a new architectural life into this hallowed ground.
Frank Lloyd Wright once said, « Every great architect is – necessarily – a great poet. He must be a great original interpreter of his time, his day, his age. » Here’s the call, gentlemen. Will you be the interpreter of our age and usher in a renaissance for this Malibu marvel?
Remember, while trends come and go, legacy and heritage stand eternal. For the connoisseur of architecture and history, this Malibu estate promises more than just land; it offers a chance to be part of a lineage that has shaped the world of design.