Exploring the Unique Features of Flea’s California Compound

Legendary bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Michael “Flea” Balzary, has listed his heptagonal estate in Malibu Colony for $8.8 million dollars. His California property is situated on a private 5.7 acres, while the main home itself is a spacious 3,900 square feet. The entire compound is made up of three distinct structures with a collective five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a lap pool, a movie complex, and much more. When searching for celebrity homes for sale in California, here’s everything to know about this iconic property.

Flea’s home is perched atop a hill providing sweeping views of the surrounding mountainscape and city below. The main house is a glassy construction designed by Michael Maltzan in 2009. The flat roof is cut through with jagged lines for an industrial yet modern look. The centerpiece of this property is a lush courtyard ensconced within the home’s seven sides. Its chic biophilic design has garnered many awards from the American Institute of Architects.

The second part of the residence is the 1950s building originally designed for the secretary of modernist architect Richard Neutra. This property is a stunning addition to midcentury homes for sale, with its low roofs accentuated by mature California flora, open-concept living and dining room, and Bear Valley stone fireplace. The living room also features a custom built-in record player framed by custom built-in shelves, a sofa, and a speaker system.

The cabin was designed by Peter Staley from Mind Tree Arts and features an asymmetrical silhouette made of redwood. This one-bedroom cabin serves mainly as a space to accommodate guests and is secluded from the main houses for additional privacy. The sleek wooden design and stone-mosaic outdoor shower emphasize the role of nature in its construction.

Buyers searching for California luxury real estate will be amazed at the architectural designs and additions made to these exclusive properties. From the coveted Japanese soaking tub in the primary bathroom to a downstairs addition created during Flea’s time at the residence, here are some of the features that make this property unique.

The primary suite in the heptagonal home looks out onto the central courtyard and lets in a wash of natural light through the main window that dominates the inner wall. The refined and simple design includes custom-made light fixtures, angled doorways with pocket doors, and a connected primary bathroom. This luxury construction features a circular theme in the skylight, shower, and blue-tiled Japanese soaking tub.

Awash with natural light cascading through the floor-to-ceiling windows, the living room’s main feature is the canyon views and surrounding city. A private deck offshoot provides even closer mountainside views and a covered area to enjoy the outdoors. The opposite wall of the living room is also a floor-to-ceiling window and sliding door that leads into the central courtyard. This courtyard is simple and quiet, decorated with succulents and offering outdoor solitude for its residents.

The dining room is subtly separated from the living room by a single step down. A long horizontal window continues the canyon views from the living room and is situated atop built-in wooden shelves. The kitchen is located off of the living room/dining room space and features a slate blue design, Caesarstone countertops, and plenty of natural light.

The media room emphasizes nature views with ample windows lining the ceiling and along the main wall. The centerpiece of this room is the custom-built Mah Jong Sofa, its subdued multicolor design a flawless addition to the overall minimalist aesthetic. Guests can lounge while watching tv or admire the mountainside vista.

The downstairs addition was designed by Michael Maltzan as well and was completed in 2018. Guests walk down a white spiral staircase into the distinctive concrete-wall space. A landing area is punctuated by a skylight above, which is built into the home’s driveway/walkway. A main inspiration for the room’s design was the comic character Bruce Wayne or Batman, as the bedroom leads out onto a waterfall-esque deck with unobstructed canyon views.

The pavilion is an expansive outdoor area for recreation and relaxation. At the center of the pavilion is a Johnston and Vidal 50-foot saltwater pool with a diving board. Near the back of the pavilion is a large covered patio with a dining table, couches to lounge on, and a catering kitchen. A screen drops down from the structure’s ceiling, while a surround-sound system makes this a great spot for movie nights or celebrations. Barrel cacti, mature trees, and other desert vegetation decorate the premises for a private outdoor oasis.

Walking up toward the main property, the driveway/walkway is lined with concrete seating and a God’s Eye art piece by Jessica Stockholder. The front entry features a mirrored glass skylight atrium that dazzles in the California sun. In front of the original Mid Century Modern home built in the 50s, a lush lawn stretches out from the property and around the sides for a fresh and natural look.

Flea’s expansive California compound is unlike any other with its three separate architectural structures, custom built-in furniture, and sweeping mountain views. The main structure, built in 2009, is centered around a courtyard visible from the living room and primary suite, while the newer downstairs addition is dominated by nature vistas. The original 50’s home emphasizes nature and the hilltop setting with encroaching vegetation and a large front lawn.

When searching for California luxury real estate like Flea’s impressive home, it’s best to work with a professional specializing in luxury properties in the area, like the agents at RSR Real Estate. They’ll have valuable insights about available listings and local market trends to help you find your dream home.

_{*Header photo courtesy of Compass}