Kanye West reportedly intended to transform his Malibu home into an off-grid retreat after his split from Kim Kardashian, according to court proceedings.
The rapper purchased the expansive property for $57 million in September 2021, just a few months after Kardashian filed for divorce following their seven-year marriage.
West is now facing a lawsuit from construction workers who allege they weren’t compensated and that their safety was endangered due to the destruction of significant architectural elements.
In a Los Angeles courtroom, West’s attorney, Andrew Czerkasky, noted that this was meant to be “his personal home for Ye and his family.”
Czerkasky elaborated that West envisioned a minimalist lifestyle there—removing all conventional amenities like electricity, toilets, and plumbing from the beachfront home.
“Like many others, Mr. West dreamed of living by the Pacific Ocean. While most wealthy individuals acquire lavish possessions, he aimed for simplicity,” Czerkasky said.
Czerkasky also mentioned that Kanye had even written a song titled “Off The Grid” on an album dedicated to his mother.
The legal dispute revolves around claims made by plaintiff Tony Saxon concerning the chaotic renovations of the Malibu residence.
Court documents indicate Saxon asserts he faced unpaid wages, unsafe work conditions, and wrongful termination after being hired to oversee the renovation process.
The extensive revamp led by West has nearly erased all original design features of the house.
When the mansion was listed for sale in 2024, it lacked essential utilities like electricity and plumbing, as well as windows and interior finishes. Saxon is set to give his testimony on Wednesday.
A West spokesperson, Milo Yiannopoulos, countered that Saxon had been working as an unlicensed contractor, misrepresenting himself as a licensed professional.
Saxon is currently seeking over $1 million in damages from West. Both West and his wife, Bianca Sensori, are anticipated to provide testimony in the case.
