Forbes Magazine: American Idol House Lists for $72 Million in Beverly Hills
Stephen Apelian’s Listing Featured in Forbes Magazine
“Virtually everyone remembers American Idol superstars Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jordin Sparks, Katherine McPhee and Adam Lambert, talented singers who achieved instant fame on the reality series. Few recall the spectacular Beverly Hills Tuscan mansion that housed Idol contestants during their pursuit of music fame. Until now.
After a meticulous seven-year renovation, Villa Colibri is reimagined as an iconic estate of spellbinding art, elite amenities and architectural ingenuity. Now it can be had for a song—well, if that song is worth $72 million (the official list price). If that induces sticker shock, it’s okay—owning this villa in your dreams is free. Like the special Idols, this estate has the “it factor.” Accessed via double gates, Villa Colibri sits majestically on 10.5 private acres with unobstructed Franklin Canyon Reserve and mountain views. The sale price includes a completely remodeled Tuscan-style main house (by architect Lise Matthews), a guest house, pavilions, and two additional buildings at the compound—totaling 17,000 square feet. “The canyon, reservoir and private golf course views are breathtaking and framed with sculptures, fountains and lush landscapes,” says Steven Dunn, Villa Colibri owner and CEO of Munchkin, a baby lifestyle brand. “We never get tired of seeing beautiful deer prancing across the lawns and the golf greens. One morning, we were lucky to catch the birth of a fawn and watch its first steps.”
Originally built in 2009, the estate (and two adjacent lots) was purchased in 2011 for $11.2 million by Dunn and his actress wife Laura, who upgraded the mansion with whimsical artworks and exotic sculptures. Laura designed the interiors, incorporating pieces the couple collected during their extensive travels abroad.
The home’s timeless design was redefined with extraordinary vintage elements—antique Roman face and foot sculptures; a rare 19th century Murano glass chandelier; and a 600-bottle wine cellar behind an antique jailhouse door. A British-themed room is a nod to London (or perhaps the Royal family) with English flag-print rugs, ottomans, pillows, red-white-and-blue color palette, an authentic red British phone booth, and a “God Save Our Queen” lighted marquee sign.
“The antique jail house door from South America was selected for the wine cellar and fitted with glass so you can look in but no wine escapes,” jokes Dunn.
The eight-bedroom, 14 bath property is co-listed by Joyce Rey, Stephen Apelian, Timothy Di Prizito of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, and Josh & Matt Altman of Douglas Elliman. “What stands out the most is the absolute perfect fusion of timeless art, architecture, home, functional, entertainment and lifestyle,” says Di Prizito.”
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/keithflamer/2019/01/31/american-idol-house-lists-for-72-million-in-beverly-hills/#3f4bef7c254c