Zehava: $42 Million Estate on ‘Billionaire’s Beach’ Designed By The Legendary Thierry Despont

Courtesy of BOND Bahamas

By Jack Wagner

Perched along the pristine shores of Harbour Island in the Bahamas, Zehava is one of the few single-family estates designed by the late and legendary architect Thierry Despont. Listed at an impressive $42 million, this oceanfront estate is currently the most expensive single-family home available on the open market in the Bahamas.

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Zehava is a testament to Despont’s creativity, showcasing the talents of one of the most celebrated architects of our time. Known for his work on iconic landmarks such as the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and London’s Claridge’s Hotel, Despont brought his signature touch to this contemporary retreat. Commissioned by retail titan Mickey Drexler, best known for his leadership at J. Crew and Gap Inc., the estate was designed to balance grandeur with comfort. The attention to detail is evident throughout, from the use of natural materials such as Brazilian hardwood and travertine stone to the architectural ingenuity of pitched rooflines and soaring ceilings.

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Spanning 9,500 square feet of air-conditioned space, Zehava’s expansive interiors evoke a sense of openness, complemented by custom geometric glass panes and pivoting slatted wood walls that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.

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The main residence features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and one half-bath, with a chef-grade kitchen and open-air living spaces perfect for entertaining or relaxing in style. A luxurious guest house adds two more bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a two-car garage equipped with beach toys, all included in the sale.

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A second guest house, with an additional two bedrooms and one bath, could also serve as staff accommodations, providing another layer of convenience and privacy.

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Across the property, hundreds of specimen palm trees sway gently in the tropical breeze, offering shade and lush surroundings. For recreation, a sunken pickleball court enhances the estate’s appeal. A self-sufficient paradise, Zehava comes equipped with a generator, a water filtration system, and walk-in freezers, ensuring comfort and security under any circumstances.

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Zehava sits on three and a half acres of prime beachfront along Harbour Island’s famed “Billionaire’s Beach.” Known for its exclusivity, breathtaking pink-sand beaches, and turquoise waters, this stretch of coastline is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious yet unpretentious lifestyle. The island attracts a range of high-profile residents and visitors, including fashion icon Diane von Fürstenberg, celebrities like Taylor Swift and David Letterman, and even royalty, such as the Princess of Greece. Despite its exclusive status, Harbour Island maintains a laid-back charm that is quintessentially Bahamian.

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The opportunity to purchase Zehava is not only a chance to own a piece of architectural history but also a wise investment in one of the world’s most coveted real estate markets. As listing agent Matthew Marco of BOND Bahamas notes, “The real estate market in the Bahamas has evolved to rival the world’s most exclusive destinations, such as the Hamptons, Malibu, and Palm Beach. The demand for luxury properties here has surged as more discerning buyers seek not only a smart investment but also a serene, breathtaking environment to call home.”

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Earlier this year, the record-breaking sale of Apsara, another exclusive Bahamian estate, for nearly $40 million, underscored the growing interest in the Bahamas luxury market. With its unrivaled location, masterful design, and $42 million price tag, Zehava is poised to further solidify the Bahamas as a top-tier destination for the world’s elite.