‘Happy Feet’ Creator Steps Into All-New Venice Architectural

Late last year, Zareh Nalbandian’s Australia-based Animal Logic animation studio was acquired by Netflix in a deal reportedly worth more than $700 million. Now the veteran producer — best known for his work on films such as “The Matrix,” “Happy Feet” and “Peter Rabbit,” among many others — has used some of those earnings to buy a new home in Los Angeles, having doled out $6.2 million for modern canal-front digs in Venice.

After first popping up for sale almost a year ago with a $7.6 million ask, the price was subsequently reduced several times before going to Nalbandian at a hefty discount. Custom built in 2002, the gated cedar and brick structure rests on over a half-acre parcel along the Venice Canals, and has four bedrooms and six baths in nearly 3,700 square feet of living space boasting blonde hardwood floors and high ceilings throughout, plus an elevator for easy access to all three floors.

A massive white oak front door pivots into an open and light-filled great room, which is highlighted by a living area sporting a linear fireplace flanked by built-in shelving, wet bar and sliding glass doors spilling out to a patio abutting the grassy front yard. Back inside, an adjacent dining alcove connects to a sleekly designed kitchen outfitted with an eat-in island and high-end appliances.

On the second level, a luxurious master retreat comes complete with a cozy fireside seating area, private balcony overlooking canal views and sizable walk-in closet featuring a stone-topped dresser. A snazzy spa-like bath is adorned with dual vanities, a matte black Victoria & Albert soaking tub, and large glass-encased shower; and elsewhere on this floor are laundry facilities and two additional en-suite bedrooms.

Packed full of amenities, the top level hosts a spacious deck-equipped room spotlighted by a wet bar and beverage center, along with a gym, another en-suite guest bedroom and access to an expansive roof deck ideal for entertaining amid the waterfront surroundings. There’s also an attached two-garage off the alleyway.

The listing was held by Sandra Miller of Engel & Völkers Santa Monica; Tami Pardee and Emma Russell of Pardee Properties repped the buyer.