Details have emerged shedding light on the state of Kanye West’s Malibu mansion, which has reportedly undergone extensive, yet controversial, renovation efforts.
A recent investigation published by the New Yorker delved into the troubled project at the 47-year-old rapper’s residence.
Initially designed by Tadao Ando and spanning 4000 square feet, the home was intended to receive a minimalist makeover under Ye’s direction. However, the outcome has left the mansion stripped of essential amenities, according to Architectural Digest.
Ye, known for his visionary style, allegedly instructed contractor Tony Saxon to remove the kitchen, bathrooms, and other fixtures in pursuit of a “simple, fresh, and clean” aesthetic, as conveyed in text messages reviewed by the publication.
Reports indicate that Bianca Censori, Ye’s 29-year-old wife and a master’s degree holder in architecture from the University of Melbourne, played a role in the renovation.
Allegedly, she directed efforts to conceal wood elements throughout the home, including painting over shelves, cabinets, and even black-and-white marble in a bathroom.
Among the more unconventional changes purportedly made was the conversion of a staircase into a foam slide, although Saxon was reportedly not involved in this particular alteration. He did, however, recount being tasked with removing the foam slide later on.
The renovation process allegedly saw the removal of two metal chimneys, glass balustrades, windows, doors, heating systems, and plumbing. Saxon claimed he negotiated a fee of $20,000 per week for his services but faced challenges, including feeling vulnerable to intruders while staying overnight in the unfinished home.
TMZ previously reported that Ye purchased the mansion for $57 million in 2021. Last December, he attempted to sell the property for $53 million with assistance from “Selling Sunset” star Jason Oppenheim. The decision to sell reportedly stemmed from dissatisfaction with the home’s interior, particularly the color of its walls.
“The interior finishes have been removed, creating a rare opportunity to purchase a waterfront property like a blank canvas, ready for customization to modern standards,” Oppenheim commented to TMZ at the time.
In April, Ye slashed the asking price to $14 million amid ongoing challenges and legal disputes related to the renovation. Earlier this year, Saxon filed a lawsuit against Ye, alleging unpaid wages and wrongful termination following safety concerns raised during the project.
