A Former Malibu Water Tower Is Back on the Market for $5 Million

Once a working water tower, the Malibu Water Tower House has become one of the beach city’s most distinctive homes.

Built to supply water to the surrounding area, the structure was transformed into a private residence in the early 1980s by local architect Doug Rucker who embraced its unconventional shape rather than alter it. The result is a light-filled four-bedroom retreat with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. More than 40 years later, the home has been extensively updated while preserving the character that made it a playful architectural curiousity.

Tucked at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac inside Malibu’s gated Cavalleri enclave, the residence spans about 4,500 square feet across multiple levels. Its circular form remains intact, complemented by white oak floors, modern finishes, and a dramatic spiral staircase connecting each level. Walls of glass open nearly every room onto a wraparound balcony.

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The main living spaces are positioned on the upper floor to capture light and views. An open living and dining area is wrapped by a curving wall of glass and flows into a kitchen with skylights above its pie-shaped central island. At the top of the residence, a rooftop deck offers 360-degree panoramas stretching from the Santa Monica Pier and Catalina Island to the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

The primary suite is on the lower floor, where it opens to the landscape with a private sitting area and spa-like bathroom. Two additional en suite bedrooms and a separate guest suite provide flexible accommodations for visitors, extended family, or a home office.

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A broad lawn wraps around the base of the tower, while approved plans allow for the addition of a future swimming pool. The property also includes a Sonos sound system, automated blackout shades, and a two-car garage with additional driveway parking.

The home last sold in July 2019 for $4.185 million, according to records. It first came to market in July 2025 for $5.9 million before the price was reduced to $5.15 million. It is now offered fully furnished for $4.95 million, with Russell Grether, Jessica Jedvaj, and Nikki Hutcheson of Compass sharing the listing.

Click here to see more photos of the circular Malibu home.