High-End Properties Hit the Market: From a Zappa Estate to a Kentucky Horse Farm

Several remarkable properties have recently emerged on the real Estatemarket, showcasing unique histories and luxurious amenities. Leading the list is a blufftop Malibu beach house once owned by Gail Zappa, the widow of rock star Frank Zappa. The Moorish-inspired estate features distinctive details like Bali-sourced wood and a snake mosaic attributed to Frank in the living room floor.

A Malibu Estate with a Rock 'n' Roll History

Originally designed by Gail Zappa, the one-acre Malibu estate has seen several owners, including Hollywood screenwriter Melissa Mathison and current owner Sonny Astani. Astani, with the help of HGTV designer Leanne Ford, oversaw a two-year remodel, preserving the home’s eclectic spirit while adding a pool, spa, and pond. The six-bedroom, 4,200-square-foot residence, listed by Lily Harfouche and Chris Cortazzo of Compass, boasts 84 feet of ocean-bluff frontage and deeded beach access, and is offered for $28.5 million.

Kentucky Horse Farm with a Champion Pedigree

Across the country, the family of the late Ryanair founder, Tony Ryan, is selling their expansive 950-acre equestrian estate, Castleton Farm, in Kentucky. The property, known for producing Thoroughbred champions, includes an 1840 Greek Revival mansion with seven bedrooms spanning 13,500 square feet, ten separate residences (including staff quarters), and 268 horse stalls. The estate, once home to Kentucky Derby winner Ben Brush, is listed by Ken Donworth of Bluegrass Sotheby’s International Realty and will headline the invitation-only Keeneland Championship Sale on October 28, or before if sold. The asking price is $57.5 million.

Miami Beach Retreat by a Branding Mogul

Further south, branding mogul Nick Woodhouse, former president of Authentic Brands Group (owner of Reebok, Champion, and Sports Illustrated), is seeking $68.5 million for his waterfront retreat on Miami Beach’s La Gorce Island. Woodhouse commissioned architect Kobi Karp and interiors firm Argent Design to create the custom modernist home, which spans approximately 8,800 square feet and includes seven bedrooms and eight full baths. Amenities include 100 feet of waterfrontage, a pool, a catering kitchen, a barbecue, and a wet bar. The property is being offered fully furnished by Oliver Lloyd of Douglas Elliman.