In the unique landscape of Joshua Tree, California, an architectural marvel stands as the most expensive listing in the area.
Known as the Invisible House, this $18 million property is distinguished by its mirror-clad exterior, which creates an illusion of the building blending seamlessly into the surrounding desert. Its innovative design has not only set a new standard in modern architecture but also positioned it as a standout property in Joshua Tree.
A Top Contender on Airbnb’s Wishlist
The Invisible House has achieved notable recognition as one of Airbnb’s most wish-listed properties in 2023.
Through a combination of guest rentals and production shoots, this property has successfully generated $1.4 million in revenue.
Expansive and Luxurious Living Space
Occupying 67.5 acres of land just steps away from the Joshua Tree National Park, the Invisible House offers an expansive living space of almost 5,500 square feet.
This includes three bedrooms, four baths, and a remarkable 100-foot indoor pool. The details of the sale listing highlight the modern glass architecture and the luxurious amenities that set this property apart from others.
Celebrated by Experts as a World-Class Residence
“This is one of the coolest houses in the world,” said Aaron Kirman, CEO of AKG Christie’s International Real Estate, who co-lists the property.
The 10,500 square feet of wrap-around mirrored glass not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the illusion of the house merging with its desert surroundings.
Architectural Innovation and Design Excellence
The Invisible House is the result of a collaboration between film producer Chris Hanley and architect Tomas Osinski.
Designed to integrate with the desert landscape, the glass-and-steel structure measures 225 feet in length, showcasing an innovative approach to modern living spaces that harmoniously blend with nature.
Living in an Art Piece
Inspired by Mies van der Rohe’s New York City skyscrapers and the monolith in Stanley Kubrick’s cult film “2001: A Space Odyssey,” the Invisible House was built to reflect the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape.
That’s right: you can live in (or Airbnb) in a moving art piece that changes constantly depending on the time of day, season, and passage of time.
Something Like a Movie
The house’s movie-producer owners embarked on the project to create the Invisible House in 2011. Eight years later, the house was completed in time for the homeowners to spend the bulk of COVID-19 in an isolated paradise.
Once it opened up to the public for $2,000 a night, the Invisible House–which came with private transportation, a private chef, and more–was something out of a movie.
Interior Design That Captures the Essence of the Desert
The interior of the Invisible House features smooth concrete floors, steel beams, and walls of mirrored glass that are transparent from the inside.
These design elements offer panoramic views of the desert, while the west-facing wall of glass can slide open, connecting the indoors with the rugged outdoor environment. This design philosophy extends the living space into the natural landscape, offering a unique living experience.
The Unique Value of an Architectural Masterpiece
Finding comparable real estate for such a distinctive property is challenging, as noted by Aaron Kirman.
“So let’s just be clear, there are no comps. We are not comping this house based on Joshua Tree,” he stated.
Setting New Records in Joshua Tree’s Real Estate Market
According to co-listing agent Matt Adamo, the highest previous sale price for a home in Joshua Tree was $3.5 million.
The Invisible House’s asking price is poised to break this record by a significant margin, setting a new benchmark for luxury real estate in the region. This potential sale could redefine market expectations in Joshua Tree.
Iconic Architectural Status
The closest comparable homes, according to Kirman, are those designed by iconic architects such as Richard Neutra, John Lautner, and Rudolph Schindler.
These comparisons highlight the Invisible House’s architectural significance and its alignment with the works of renowned architects, further emphasizing its exceptional value in the market.
Pricing That Reflects Unparalleled Quality
With an asking price of nearly $3,300 per square foot, the Invisible House stands above some of the priciest listings in Los Angeles on a per-square-foot basis.
This pricing reflects the property’s exceptional quality and the unique living experience it offers, comparing favorably with luxury real estate in major urban centers, according to the Elliman Report.
A Property That Attracts Attention
Beyond its architectural significance, the Invisible House has established itself as a popular choice for guests on Airbnb and for production shoots. “In 2021, this house generated over $1.4 million in total revenue,” Matt Adamo said.
This financial performance, coupled with the property’s popularity among notable guests, illustrates its appeal and versatility as both a residence and an investment opportunity.
Awaiting a Record-Breaking Sale
Despite its high asking price and the acclaim it has received, the Invisible House has yet to find a buyer since it was listed.
However, the confidence expressed by the listing agents in achieving a record-breaking sale reflects their belief in the property’s unique value and the unprecedented interest it has generated.
An Amazing Vacation
The Invisible House is a guaranteed comfortable desert getaway for any guest looking for a unique stay. The house has been host to celebrities such as U2, Lizzo, Alicia Keys, Iggy Azalea, and more.
The impressive home has also been featured in Netflix’s “The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals.”
More Beautiful Homes in the Desert
Want a house that is a little less transparent? Joshua Tree is the home to some of the most stunning houses in the US.
Located near Joshua Tree National Park and located near the trendy vacation spot of Palm Springs, the rocky hills in the Californian desert are the perfect place for home buyers to find affordable real estate and lead an artsy, secluded lifestyle.
The Kellogg Doolittle House
One of the most impressive homes that blend in with the nature surrounding it (rather than reflect it as the Invisible House does) is American architect Kendrick Bangs Kellogg’s Doolittle House.
Perched on the slope of a rocky hill, that impressive exterior is composed and embedded within its natural surroundings thanks to the cast-concrete slabs.
Blending In With the Hills of the Desert
Working with long-term collaborator, designer John Vurgin, Kellogg designed a building with a fishbone structure. The house features a dining room made of no less than 800 pieces of sandblasted glass and a master bedroom with a self-standing bronze washing basin.
The Doolittle House is priced at $3 million, which is surprisingly more affordable than the Invisible House.
The Folly Cabins
At first glance, the Folly cabins might not be anything to gawk at. The pair of abandoned-looking sheds in the desert set against the desert landscape is a hidden gem that offers something amazing just beyond its doors.
Within the walls of the Folly cabins are a breathtaking modernist living space and a soaking tub to help cool off from those hot days.
Relax In a Unique Way
The cool and sleek design of the Folly cabins, created by architectural designer Malek Alquadi, blends in with the landscape, creating an environment that is instantly relaxing.
While the Folly cabins are not for sale, you can enjoy soaking on the wooden porch or relaxing under the stars in a hammock for the night by booking your stay on their website.
The Sol to Soul Prefab Home
This five-acre lot in Pioneertown is the home to the Sol to Soul Prefab Home. Los Angeles-based writer Leslie Longworth found the perfect retreat in the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree, immersing herself in its tranquility.
Prefab company Cover created a low-impact build that looks over the entire landscape of Joshua Tree without harming the endangered Joshua trees.
The Coolest Airbnb
Distinguished by Condé Nast Traveler as the Coolest Airbnb in the state of California, Sol to Soul is an eco-friendly house that is designed to “maximize the potential for awe” of the landscape, per Longworth’s request.
Located an hour away from any town, this home is the perfect sanctuary for any creative looking for a sustainable getaway.
The iT House
Are you in love with the Invisible House, but are looking for something a little less reflective? The iT House, designed by Linda Taalamn and Alan Koch of Taalman Kock Architects, is a minimalist house with an industrial aesthetic.
This home perfectly blends the features of the Invisible House and the Sol to Soul, as it was designed to reflect the natural landscape surrounding it while being a sustainable building.
No Need for AC
The home’s sustainable building strategies include large doors, operable windows for cross-ventilation, overhangs for shade, and solar panels to turn the power of the sun into a source of power.
The design of the house makes it possible for guests to relax in comfort without turning on the air conditioning.
