Built in 2007, the 11,500-square-foot modern mansion takes in sweeping ocean views from window-lined living spaces, rooftop terraces and a custom concrete courtyard.

(Gary Kasl )

Alicia Keys emerges as buyer of La Jollas striking Razor House

Home Design

Jack Flemming

Sept. 6, 2019

A high-profile name has emerged as the buyer of the Razor House, an architectural masterpiece on the coast of La Jolla: Alicia Keys.

The singer-songwriter shelled out $20.8 million for the striking estate, according to people not authorized to comment on the sale. Thats the priciest deal in the coastal community this year.

A cutting-edge blend of concrete and glass, the jagged, sweeping structure listed last summer for $30 million before a price cut took it down to $24.995 million. It was built by architect Wallace E. Cunningham, who designed the three-story structure to match the dramatic landscape that surrounds it.

Employing a cantilevered base, the modernist home hugs the side of a cliff and takes in sweeping ocean views.

Highlights are aplenty. Theres a subterranean garage

and a series of geometric terraces up above including a scenic entertainers deck with a swimming pool and outdoor kitchen.

The entire structure wraps around a custom courtyard. Perhaps the homes most stunning space, it features a collection of concrete monoliths around a turf lawn and fire pit.

Inside are touches of white concrete, stainless steel, stone and walnut across 11,545 square feet. Walls of glass line the living spaces, which include a two-story great room, rounded living room, billiards room, library, tiered movie theater and two kitchens.

The upper levels, accessed by a sweeping, floating staircase, boast a lofted lounge and two master suites. There are four bedrooms in total, and the 1,300-square-foot detached guesthouse adds two more.

Josh and Matt Altman of Douglas Elliman held the listing. The Altmans also represented Keys along with Douglas Ellimans Stephen Sweeney.

Keys, 38, has won 15 Grammys over the course of a career that has seen her release six studio albums and sell more than 65 million records. Her hits include Fallin, No One and If I Aint Got You.