Over sixty years ago, German physicist Gisela Eckhardt, renowned for co-inventing the Raman laser, made her way to California with the intention of settling in the Los Angeles area. Her journey led her to discover a Robert Skinner-designed house in the Trousdale Estates neighborhood of Beverly Hills. Impressed by Skinner’s work, she enlisted the modernist architect to create a ranch-style home for her in the eastern part of Malibu, directly overlooking Big Rock Beach.
Completed in 1966, the property, known as the “Eckhardt House,” was sold for million in late 2020 after Eckhardt’s passing. The buyer was a real estate developer associated with Maison d’Artiste, and he made a steadfast promise to preserve the property in accordance with Skinner’s original design. Following an extensive restoration, the house reappeared on the market in late 2022, initially listed for just under $12 million.
After more than a year and several price reductions, the residence has once again changed hands, this time fetching $9 million. The new owner is Javier Ferreira, a digital media and technology veteran and co-CEO of Scopely, an interactive entertainment company and mobile games publisher.
Skinner’s exclusive creation in Malibu features four bedrooms and three bathrooms within approximately 2,700 square feet of open-concept living space. The interior boasts newer terrazzo floors, whitewashed finishes, block walls, and natural oak accents. Expansive glass elements provide breathtaking views of city lights and the ocean from nearly every room.
Situated on a bluff-top parcel spanning nearly 3 acres and protected by a security system, the striking all-white structure is complemented by a motorcourt and an attached two-car garage at the front. Upon entering through double doors, an entry foyer leads to a sunken living room with a decorative floating-hearth fireplace. An adjacent dining area, adorned with a massive mural, connects to an eat-in kitchen equipped with bespoke cabinetry, Corian countertops, and top-tier Fisher & Paykel and Miele appliances.
The primary suite, featuring glass-lined walls, includes a built-in desk, private sauna, walk-in closet, and a spa-inspired bath with dual vanities and a custom waterfall shower. Outdoors, the terraced backyard encompasses a large white-bottom pool, fire pit, “strolling gardens,” and numerous patios perfect for al fresco lounging and entertaining.
The listing was managed by Elizabeth Donovan of Coldwell Banker Realty, while David Caskey and Jeremy Robinson of eXp Realty of California represented Javier Ferreira in the transaction.
