The inspiration for Tony Stark’s Razor Point and featured in the Iron Man film franchise; the famed Razor House has been purchased by recording artist Alicia Keys and her music producer husband Swizz Beats for $20.8 million. Designed by acclaimed San Diego architect Wallace E. Cunningham, Razor House took more than six years to construct and was completed in 2007. Its sale is the most expensive in the uber-exclusive La Jolla neighborhood within the past three years. Douglas Elliman’s Altman Brothers represented both parties involved in the transaction. The seller was represented by Josh and Matt Altman, as was the buyer along with team member Stephen Sweeney.
The home’s storied history includes acting as the backdrop in high-profile advertisements for Visa’s Black Card and Calvin Klein, as well as for Aston Martin’s unveiling of the V12 Zagato supercar for a private customer. Keys and her family are just the third owners of the palatial estate. It was originally built for Jimmy Cooksey Jr., but was not completed before he filed for bankruptcy. Entrepreneur and experienced real estate investor, Donald Burns, snapped up the listing for just $14.1 million and worked with Cunningham to complete his design. He said he was happy to sell the estate to someone who was appreciative of its architecture.
The 10,653-square-foot main residence soars three stories high with six bedrooms including two master suites, each with entire walls of curved glass offering endless ocean views. The great room is two stories encircled entirely by glass with a rounded floating staircase between the two floors. There’s also a library/game room, movie theater and gym. The lower-level great room opens out into a backyard area with an infinity-edge pool and fire pit. The rooftop deck also provides ample space for entertaining, sunning and taking in the ocean views.
Below ground is a contemporary garage for sleek storage of cars and toys. Also included on the property is a 1,300-square-foot guest house sprawling over three levels with two ensuite bedrooms, each with a separate entry.