Luxury home and travel photographer Douglas Friedman has captured hundreds, if not thousands, of incredible properties from Cher’s Malibu residence to many interior designers’ own havens. His shots have graced magazine after magazine, and he’s friends with style tastemakers like Martha Stewart and Tommy Hilfiger.
With ample experience in beautiful, high-end spaces of all kinds, Friedman’s own taste is a treat to see. This home in Texas that he designed and built from the ground up showcases his penchant for modern architecture and eclectic decor. Nearly 10 years after bringing his ranch refuge to life, he’s now seeking just under $3 million for it.
The three-bedroom retreat is located in Marfa, a small west Texas town known for drawing in artists and for being the film location for ‘Giant’ with Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson. According to Mr. Porter, Friedman fell in love with the destination after two visits and decided fairly quickly he wanted land there. “I was swept up by it,” he told the publication. “I’m so energised by the remoteness. I love the desert. I love to drive. Out here, it’s my fantasy.”
After touring various spots, he finally laid eyes on this 10-acre estate and began conceptualizing his desert oasis. Friedman deeply considered the location when designing the 2,304-square-foot home, which reflects the artistic aura of Marfa and spotlights the rugged, mountainous landscape in the distance. Its glass-box architecture and sustainable technologies fulfill his desire for simplicity and connection to the land, while the decor inside exudes boho maximalism.
Along with help from talented designers like Steven Gambrel, Nicole Hollis and Brigette Romanek, the photographer outfitted it with treasures collected from his world travels and Texas adventures, as well as luxe touches such as de Gournay hand-painted wallpaper. The result? “Wabi-sabi funk,” as he described it to Mr. Porter.
With the hot climate and desert mystique, Friedman also gave great thought to fashioning the outdoor spaces. Winding paths bring you from the main residence to the pergola for alfresco dining, a sleek pool and relaxing hot tub, and an outdoor shower hidden behind concrete walls. He planted trees and long prairie grasses, and placed sculptures by Brett Douglas Hunter around the grounds, paying homage to Marfa’s creative community and its legacy of Donald Judd.
The famous seller, who first asked $3.7 million for the property earlier this year, told the New York Post, “This house feels finished, and when a house feels finished, it’s time to move to the next one and begin the process again.” He appears to be turning his gaze to new possibilities in Texas as well as on Long Island.
Jeff Burke of Douglas Elliman holds the one-of-a-kind listing.