Malibu Mansion with Rock Icon and 'E.T.' Connections on Sale for $28.5 Million

This exquisite Moorish-inspired villa, nestled in the prestigious Point Dume enclave of Malibu, is currently available for purchase at $28.5 million. The property boasts a rich history, having been home to two notable figures: Gail Zappa, widow of legendary rock musician Frank Zappa, and Melissa Mathison, the acclaimed screenwriter behind 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.' Following extensive renovations by commercial real estate developer Sonny Astani, the estate seamlessly combines its original 1970s character with contemporary luxury, offering panoramic ocean vistas and exclusive amenities.

Gail Zappa acquired this ocean-view estate in 1997, four years after her husband's passing, for $2.4 million. She infused the residence with her unique bohemian style, incorporating global treasures into its design. Melissa Mathison later purchased the property in 2003 for $5.8 million, eventually selling it a decade later for $9.6 million to Sonny Astani. Astani embarked on a two-year renovation project, collaborating with HGTV designer Leanne Ford. The aim was to preserve the home's distinctive charm while introducing modern enhancements such as a swimming pool, spa, and a tranquil lily pond.

After an initial listing in 2022 for $32.5 million and a period as a high-end rental, the revitalized residence is once again on the market at a reduced price. Sonny Astani, founder and chairman of Astani Enterprises, is offering the estate for $28.5 million. The listing is managed by Lily Harfouche and Chris Cortazzo of Compass.

Spanning over an acre, the multi-level property is secured by Balinese gates and adorned with mature trees and lush gardens. Inside, the approximately 4,200-square-foot home features six bedrooms and seven bathrooms. The vibrant interiors showcase wide-plank oak flooring, textured plaster walls, elevated wood-beam ceilings, gracefully arched keyhole entryways, zellige tiles, and custom-crafted teak elements. Expansive glass panels throughout the home perfectly frame the stunning ocean scenery. Notably, unique design elements introduced by Gail Zappa have been preserved, including an intricate serpent mosaic in a conversation pit, a design personally conceived by Frank Zappa.

Further enhancing the home's appeal are a pebble-covered entrance foyer with a sculptural staircase leading to a book-lined office loft. A spacious, sun-drenched living area is distinguished by windows adorned with carved Moorish keyhole patterns, a striking globe chandelier, and a recessed conversation pit centered around a grand fireplace. The substantial kitchen boasts multi-toned terracotta tile floors, calming sage green cabinetry, a glistening emerald backsplash, and a rustic vertical tree trunk serving as a central feature. Steps descend from the kitchen to a comfortable family dining space.

Among the additional noteworthy features are a formal dining room beneath a sloped white beamed ceiling, embellished with geometric star panels, and a primary bedroom suite facing the Pacific Ocean. This suite includes a raised sitting area with a daybed nook and an elaborate indoor-outdoor bathroom. A secluded writing alcove is nestled within a windowed tower, offering a private retreat.

The property offers 84 feet of ocean-bluff frontage, complemented by a courtyard lap pool, a serene lily pond, a spacious grassy lawn perfect for outdoor entertaining, a viewing pergola, and a motor court accommodating up to twelve vehicles. A significant advantage of this estate is its deeded beach access, including exclusive Riviera III keyed entry to the coveted Little Dume Beach.