NBA star LeBron James did not simply renovate his Beverly Hills estate. He tore it down and started over and what was once expected to become one enormous residence is now taking shape as a two-home compound. The Los Angeles Lakers star paid $36.75 million for the 2.72-acre property in 2020, acquiring a historic estate that dated to the 1930s. Three years later, the original house was demolished. According to an exclusive report by Realtor (dot) com, the site is being divided into two separate parcels, each with its own luxury residence.
One property, two mansions
According to planning applications reviewed by Realtor, the larger home will stretch nearly 16,000 square feet across two stories, with another 7,700 square feet devoted to a basement garage. A second, two-level garage will sit at ground level, while the backyard is planned to include a swimming pool and spa. Perched on the Beverly Hills hillside, the residence will also take advantage of sweeping views across the surrounding landscape. The amenities extend outdoors, with an outdoor kitchen planned alongside solar panels designed to provide additional power resilience during grid outages.The second residence will be considerably smaller but still substantial at 6,550 square feet. The single-story home will feature a basement movie theater, entertainment areas and a two-car garage. A large terrace will overlook the surrounding scenery, while wellness amenities include hot and cold plunge pools. A courtyard with palm trees will provide another outdoor gathering space, adds the online report.
A shared, highly secured compound
Although the homes will occupy separate, irregularly shaped parcels, they will function as part of a connected compound.A shared driveway will lead into the property, with a 209-square-foot guard house positioned at the entrance. The development will also feature 10-foot-high perimeter fencing and an elaborate security and alarm system. At the center of the shared outdoor space, a large motor court will surround a substantial water feature, creating a common focal point between the two residences. The project has been developed with luxury planning firm Crest Real Estate and architecture firm Walker Workshop, whose portfolio includes high-end residential projects in Los Angeles.
Construction has been underway since 2023
Construction on the new compound began in 2023 after the necessary planning approvals were secured. According to Realtor, the project represents a dramatic departure from the property James purchased in 2020. The original residence was a four-bedroom estate dating to the 1930s, but the basketball star opted to clear the site completely rather than remodel it.The original plan was reportedly for the property to serve as a primary family residence for James, his wife Savannah and their children. The decision to construct a second residence has since prompted speculation about how the additional home might ultimately be used, including whether it could become a residence for his eldest son, Bronny James.
Another James home was rebuilt from scratch
The Beverly Hills project is not James’ first experience with replacing an existing home with a custom-built mansion.In Akron, Ohio, he purchased a property for $2.1 million shortly after being selected No. 1 overall in the 2003 NBA draft. The existing house was later demolished and replaced with a much larger residence. That Akron home now spans more than 30,000 square feet and includes six bedrooms, 10 bathrooms and a range of high-end amenities, including a bowling alley, recording studio and barbershop. For the Beverly Hills property, however, James has taken the concept considerably further. A single 2.72-acre estate is becoming two separate compounds, each designed around privacy, expansive views, entertainment and resort-style amenities.Images Courtesy: Realtor and Wikipedia
