Is it a supervillain’s lair? A community college for architects? It’s the ultramodern mansion of Pharrell Williams in the Beverly Hills Post Office neighbourhood, and it just sold for $14 million.

The Grammy-winning artist, who purchased the beautiful property from Tyler Perry for $15.6 million two years ago, still lost money on the sale. In the spring, he listed the property for $16.95 million.

On a knoll off Mulholland Drive, on four gated acres, the magnificent estate provides a dramatic retreat from the city below. The grounds include a series of koi ponds, waterfalls, and lawns, as well as a grotto-style swimming pool and tennis court at the border of the property.

The 200-foot driveway leads to the 17,000-square-foot, three-story residence with 10 bedrooms and 11 toilets. A sculptural staircase cuts through an atrium with indoor fountains and gallery-white walls at the centre of the floor plan.

The chef’s kitchen is illuminated by gold-hued lighting, and the formal dining room is illuminated by a custom crystal chandelier. A parlour with windows features a wet bar and billiards area.

In addition to a spa bathroom and architectural office, the master bedroom features wood elements and a dramatic fireplace. Directly outside, landscaped vantage points provide commanding city and canyon vistas.

Williams, also known as Pharrell, is a vocalist, rapper, producer, and fashion designer. He co-founded the hip-hop production duo the Neptunes and the band N.E.R.D. in the late 1990s. He has won thirteen Grammys and been nominated for two Academy Awards, one for his hit single “Happy” and the other for producing “Hidden Figures.”