Two Gesner Mansions Hit the Market in Malibu

Two iconic Gesner properties have hit the market on the Malibu coast. The first of the two estates is appropriately named “The Wave House.” This masterpiece is considered Harry Gesner’s greatest work. Right next door is his former family home “Sandcastle.” The Wave House is for sale for the first time in 36 years, and Sandcastle is on the market for the first time since its construction. Priced at $49,500,000 and $27,500,000 respectively, these homes are listed by Zen Gesner at Compass.

Gesner famously built The Wave House to mimic the appearance of cresting waves. Finished in 1963, there is a strong mid-century aesthetic that permeates the home. The open space, natural light, and unconventional architectural details are the starring elements. This home highlights the vista of the seaside Malibu landscape.

The property is split into two levels. The ground floor includes three vaulted living spaces and a beachfront master suite. A hot tub and sauna are directly attached to the master bedroom. The upper level is comprised of five bedrooms with panoramic ocean views.

The three wraparound desks are curved to mimic the tide. A true representation of 60s architecture, there is a sunken conversation pit that wraps around the fireplace. Outside of the main residence, there is a separate guest house that offers additional space for visitors. The outdoor space and exterior architecture are just as impressive and expansive as the interior.

Built as his own private residence, Sandcastle was a labor of love. He built the structure with recycled materials such as telephone poles, reclaimed bricks, aqueduct pipes, and old-growth redwood from the 1800s. He also sourced the windows and doors from one of Hollywood’s vintage silent film cinemas.

Upon entering the home, the spoke-like beams and wood-plank ceiling are striking. The entire living space is wrapped by windows and the brick fireplace sits in the center. A stained glass solarium shines onto the dining area and the wraparound deck is accessible from almost every room.

The main level includes two en-suite bedrooms and the second level hosts the primary suite. Above the primary suite is an additional meditation space. There are several supplementary structures on the property for versatility and hosting guests. Gesner built a “tree house” with an ocean view that includes a kitchenette, living room, bedroom, and bathroom. There is also a “boat house” with a bedroom, bathroom, full kitchen, and living space. Finally, the additional “nest” apartment includes a one-bedroom suite and a stained-glass ceiling.

These two neighboring homes are historic Malibu landmarks. Gesner’s legacy is preserved in these oceanfront icons. Both estates are one-of-a-kind, and these listings are a very rare occurrence. Malibu living and mid-century architecture collide in these significant beachfront homes.

Listing: 33602 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, CA 90265 (Compass)

Listing: 33604 Pacific Coast Hwy., Malibu, CA 90265 (Compass)

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