The saga of David Gilmour's seaside mansion in Hove continues as the asking price for the luxurious property has been slashed once again, now sitting at £8,950,000 after initially being listed at £15 million just two years ago. Medina House, which occupies a prime seafront location on King's Esplanade, was completed in 2020 following a significant and controversial redevelopment of a 19th-century public baths.

Gilmour purchased the original structure, a Victorian Turkish bath known as Medina Baths, in 2015. After approval in 2017 to demolish it—a decision fraught with local opposition over potential light obstruction for neighbouring properties—the site underwent substantial transformation. Designed by award-winning architect Keb Gavarito-Bruhn, the new mansion features five bedrooms and an array of luxury amenities, including hardwood flooring, underfloor heating, a library, and a private garden. Both Gilmour and his wife, Polly Samson, have expressed their appreciation for the property’s stunning views of the English Channel, stating, "The main bedroom is a beautiful place from which to watch the sunrise and sunset across the sea."

However, despite the allure of this contemporary seafront home, the property has remained unsold for over three years, demonstrating a challenging market landscape. Initially, the couple decided to retain a custom-built recording studio within the premises, which contributed to the subsequent price adjustment when the house was relisted at £10 million. Market trends and evolving real estate demands might have influenced the lack of offers, as even this second price cut failed to spur buyer interest.

Complicating matters further, Gilmour's legal troubles regarding ownership have come to light. Following an administrative oversight after his company Hoveco Ltd was dissolved, the property was mistakenly claimed by the Crown rather than being transferred to the musician himself. This twist has necessitated legal action on Gilmour's part to reclaim ownership, adding yet another layer to an already intricate property saga.

Local residents had previously voiced strong objections to the plans for the property, with protestors dubbing the ambitious project ‘Polly’s Folly’ and likening the redevelopment to themes from Pink Floyd’s iconic track "Another Brick in the Wall." Nonetheless, as the house reaches its final design, some community members have changed their stance, acknowledging the transformation of a once derelict site into a striking residence that enhances the local environment.

As the luxury real estate market evolves—particularly within the vibrant coastal community of Hove, known for its affluent residents and proximity to Brighton—Gilmour's Medina House illustrates both the complexities of high-end property sales and the delicate balance between personal ambition and local sentiment. In an area that has attracted numerous celebrities over the years, including Adele and David Walliams, Gilmour’s property represents a significant chapter in the ongoing narrative of celebrity real estate and the fluctuations inherent to this exclusive market.

While Gilmour possesses a respectable fortune estimated at £140 million, the challenges of selling Medina House reflect broader trends affecting luxury properties. Buyers remain cautious amid economic uncertainties, leaving Gilmour and Samson waiting for the right moment to find a buyer for their extraordinary coastal retreat.

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Source: Noah Wire Services