Introduction
Emmy-winning actor and author David Duchovny is ready to part with his bespoke Malibu estate, listing the ocean-close property for $12.5 million. Located in the prestigious Point Dume enclave, this home is not only a serene modern haven but also a reflection of Duchovny’s creative spirit — featuring a restored vintage train caboose as a fully livable guesthouse. As Malibu continues to attract artists, tech moguls, and coastal lifestyle seekers alike, this rare listing offers a captivating blend of character, craftsmanship, and California tranquility.
David Duchovny: Actor, Author, and Malibu Resident
Best known for his roles as Agent Mulder in The X-Files and Hank Moody in Californication, David Duchovny has long been a Malibu fixture. His deep affinity for writing and solitude is well-aligned with the calm seclusion of Point Dume — a neighborhood long favored by celebrities for its privacy and beach access. Duchovny purchased the property in 2008 and has since transformed it into a personal sanctuary, where he penned novels, hosted podcasts, and embraced the relaxed Pacific lifestyle.
A Contemporary Home Rooted in Natural Luxury
Set on approximately one acre of manicured land, the primary residence spans 3,577 square feet and offers a clean, contemporary design that emphasizes openness and light. Designed to merge effortlessly with its lush surroundings, the home uses warm wood tones, expansive glass sliders, and polished concrete floors to deliver a grounded yet modern feel.
The main house features three bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms, each space drawing in light from thoughtfully placed windows and opening to outdoor terraces. The primary suite, situated with privacy and direct access to the yard, includes a spa-like bath, custom closets, and garden views.
A chef’s kitchen with bespoke stone countertops, premium stainless steel appliances, and a discreet built-in coffee station anchors the central living area. The open-concept living and dining rooms highlight Duchovny’s minimalist sensibility while creating room to entertain or retreat.
The Caboose Guesthouse: A One-of-a-Kind Creative Escape
Perhaps the most enchanting feature of the property is Duchovny’s restored train caboose, parked permanently within the garden and reimagined as a private guest suite. This rare architectural gesture includes a sleeping loft, a dining area, and a fully functional bathroom with a rainfall shower. A staircase leads to the roof deck, where one can take in panoramic views of the surrounding greenery and nearby coastline.
For Duchovny, this caboose was more than a quirky detail — it was a creative lab. He reportedly wrote portions of his 2021 novel Truly Like Lightning from within the caboose, and recorded episodes of his podcast, Fail Better, from this peaceful outpost. The structure stands not only as a physical guesthouse but also a symbol of artistic retreat and freedom.
Outdoor Amenities and Landscape Architecture
The estate’s exterior offerings are equally compelling. A saltwater lap pool flanked by a hot tub and cold plunge sits at the center of the backyard, encouraging relaxation and wellness. Outdoor showers, shaded lounges, and a sunken firepit create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow — ideal for Southern California’s mild climate.
Mature sycamores and native landscaping cocoon the property in privacy, while stone paths and bamboo hedging add a touch of Zen. The grounds also include an expansive lawn, ideal for gatherings, yoga, or quiet reflection.
A Star’s Home in a Resilient Market
With Malibu’s real estate market showing strong recovery post-wildfire and Pacific Coast Highway reopenings, high-profile listings such as this continue to generate attention. Duchovny’s home stands out not just because of his name, but due to the rare artistic integrity embedded into its design.
Real estate experts predict a high level of interest in this listing, particularly from buyers seeking creative live-work environments. Point Dume has always been a draw for entertainment and tech figures, and this property, with its rare mix of whimsy and design seriousness, positions itself as a standout among Malibu offerings.
Artistic Legacy and California Roots
More than just a residence, this home tells a story — of an artist’s relationship with space, solitude, and reinvention. Throughout the house, bookshelves display Duchovny’s favorite novels and collected works, while art and minimal furnishings reflect his preference for thoughtful living.
Every detail, from the weathered red caboose to the integrated outdoor spa facilities, speaks to the idea of home as sanctuary — where creative processes are protected and fostered.
Conclusion
David Duchovny’s Malibu home isn’t just a high-end listing — it’s a curated reflection of one man’s creative life. Priced at $12.5 million, it offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of real estate imbued with story, serenity, and soul. With its architectural clarity, lush Point Dume setting, and one-of-a-kind caboose guesthouse, this is a Malibu property unlike any other.