The entertainment industry has blessed us with a slew of Black power couples. Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade, Ciara and Russell Wilson, and, of course, Beyoncé and Jay-Z are just a few that come to mind. But when it comes to Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz (Kasseem Dean), the power couple’s moniker is just the beginning of what makes them elite. Each talented and musically gifted in their own right, the two share a deep passion for the arts that’s imminent in everything they do.
In 2019, the couple extended their love of art to home and interiors when they purchased the famed Razor House perched on a cliffside in La Jolla, California. Like the Dean’s, the Razor House was built with art in mind and has served as a cultural icon for decades. Originally designed by architectural designer Wallace E. Cunningham, the Razor House has been described as a one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece and a unique trophy property.
The name gives way to the sleek shape of the house, but upon purchasing it six years ago, the couple began making it their own. The result is a spectacular place where art of all forms collides and dreams can be nurtured and made to come true. Today, the Razor House goes by a new name, Dreamland, and is, as the deans say, the home of their wildest dreams.
The unique shape of the house is no accident. Designer Wallace E. Cunningham was known for creating a statement using natural shapes and polished accents. Coincidentally, Dreamland has both. The most notable element is the curved design that gave the house its original razor nickname. It is now a welcoming element in the Dean’s home. In their tour with Architectural Digest, Keys says the circle feels comfortable and calming with the view of the water. However, this view isn’t just overlooking a stunning beach. The standout circle room of Dreamland features wall-to-ceiling windows that provide sweeping panoramas of the Pacific Ocean.
Swizz Beatz goes on to say that they chose the decor to match the peaceful mood of the room. Everything from the cream and clay tones to the textured modular furniture evokes a warm feeling. He continues noting that much of the decor was inspired by the places they’ve traveled to and have a global influence on them.
Moving on to the other rooms, the Deans talk about their love of clean lines and pieces that merge simplicity and luxury. One of the best examples is their dining set, which features a large rectangular wooden table with sherpa-lined chairs in a matching mocha shade. Family is very important to the Deans, and having a home that’s conducive to gathering and family fun is essential. Throughout their home, you can spot large tables for communing, homework, or game nights. There are also cozy sofas for movie nights.
Given that the two are artists themselves, art and music are staple themes throughout Dreamland. Whether it’s the different grand pianos or artwork hanging on the walls, the pair have steeped their home in their passion. They have an extensive collection of art that includes paintings, photography, sculptures, and more.
While a tour of Dreamland is nice, you don’t have to visit the 11,000-square-foot home to view their art collection. Recently, the pair curated a museum exhibit called Giants: Art from the Dean Collection to showcase some of their favorite pieces.
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