Paul McClean Net Worth [Lead Architect of “The One”]

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Net Worth:	$35 million
Profession/Career:	Architect
College:	Dublin Institute of Technology
Major/Degree:	Architecture
Full Name:	Eilleen Regina Edwards
Date of Birth:	January 28, 1964
Place of Birth:	Dublin, Ireland
Height:	6’0”

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Paul McClean was an Irish architect known for his modernist designs and innovative use of technology and materials. He was the founder of McClean Design, a Los Angeles-based architecture firm that specializes in designing high-end residential homes, commercial spaces, and hospitality projects. McClean’s designs are characterized by their clean lines, open spaces, and extensive use of glass and natural light. Some of his notable projects include the Bird Streets residence in Los Angeles, the Skyspace house in Hollywood Hills, and the Opus condominium tower in Beverly Hills. Sadly, Paul McClean passed away in 2018 at the age of 53.

How Did Paul McClean Make His Money?

As an architect and the founder of his own architecture firm, Paul McClean made most of his money through his work designing and building high-end residential homes, commercial spaces, and hospitality projects. McClean Design, his architecture firm, has completed numerous projects for wealthy clients in the United States and around the world, including multimillion-dollar mansions in Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Hills, and other exclusive areas. McClean’s designs were known for their attention to detail, luxurious materials, and innovative use of technology and sustainable design principles.

McClean Design’s clients included some of the world’s wealthiest individuals, celebrities, and business leaders. Due to the high-end and exclusive nature of the firm’s projects, many of their clients’ names are kept private to protect their privacy. However, some of the clients whose projects have been publicly known and completed by McClean Design include:

Beyoncé and Jay-Z: The power couple commissioned McClean Design to design an $85 million mansion in Bel Air, which features a stunning infinity pool and indoor-outdoor living spaces.
Calvin Klein: McClean Design was responsible for designing the fashion designer’s beachfront mansion in Miami Beach, which boasts a minimalist and sleek design.
Evan Metropoulos: McClean Design designed a $65 million mansion in Beverly Hills for the billionaire investor, which features a 2,500-square-foot master suite and a glass-bottomed pool.
Mike and Irena Medavoy: The Hollywood producer and his wife commissioned McClean Design to design a stunning Beverly Hills home that overlooks the city and features an infinity pool and indoor-outdoor living spaces.
Markus Persson: The billionaire creator of Minecraft hired McClean Design to design a $70 million mansion in Beverly Hills, which features a movie theater, candy room, and a car showroom.
Dean Metropoulos: The businessman and owner of Hostess Brands hired McClean Design to design a $50 million mansion in Greenwich, Connecticut, which features an indoor basketball court and a bowling alley.
Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen: The NFL quarterback and supermodel commissioned McClean Design to design their Los Angeles mansion, which features a moat-like water feature and a breathtaking view of the city.
Dr. Dre: The rapper and music producer hired McClean Design to design his $40 million mansion in Brentwood, which features a moat-like water feature, an infinity pool, and a private gym.
Ed Belfour: The former NHL goaltender hired McClean Design to design a modern lakefront home in Ontario, Canada, which features a boathouse, indoor basketball court, and a rooftop deck.
Rob Dyrdek: The skateboarder and TV personality commissioned McClean Design to design his Hollywood Hills home, which features a rooftop deck with a pool and a stunning view of Los Angeles.
Michael Chow: The founder of the Mr. Chow restaurant chain hired McClean Design to design his Beverly Hills home, which features a minimalist design and a glass-enclosed courtyard.
Petra Ecclestone: The British socialite and heiress hired McClean Design to design her $90 million mansion in Holmby Hills, which features a two-lane bowling alley, a salon, and a bar.
Calvin Harris: The Scottish DJ and music producer hired McClean Design to design his Hollywood Hills home, which features a sleek modern design and an infinity pool overlooking the city.
Evan Spiegel and Miranda Kerr: The co-founder of Snapchat and his supermodel wife hired McClean Design to design their Brentwood home, which features a minimalist design and a sprawling backyard.
Kelsey Grammer: The actor hired McClean Design to design his Beverly Hills mansion, which features a classic Mediterranean-style design and a large outdoor terrace with a fireplace.

Paul McClean’s Awards and Accolades

Here are some of the notable awards that Paul McClean and McClean Design have received throughout their career:

2021: AIA Los Angeles Design Award, Citation Award for the Rockbridge Residence in Beverly Hills.
2020: AIA Los Angeles Design Award, Merit Award for the Carbon Mesa residence in Malibu.
2019: AIA Los Angeles Design Award, Merit Award for the Bayview House in Hermosa Beach.
2018: Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List Award for the Stradella Residence in Bel Air.
2017: Architectural Digest AD100, a list of the world’s top architects and designers.
2016: Gold Nugget Award of Merit for the Bird Streets residence in Los Angeles.

2016 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Los Angeles Residential Architecture Award for the West Hollywood residence.
2015: Luxe Interiors + Design Gold List Award for the Blue Jay Way Residence in Los Angeles.
2014: The Robb Report’s Ultimate Home award for the Skyspace house in Hollywood Hills.

2014: AIA|LA Restaurant Design Award for the Red O Restaurant in Santa Monica.
2012: AIA|LA Residential Architecture Award for the Stradella Residence in Bel Air.
2010: California Home + Design Award for Best New Private Residence for the Hillcrest Residence in Beverly Hills.
2009: AIA|LA Residential Architecture Award for the Blue Jay Way Residence in Los Angeles.
2008: AIA|LA Restaurant Design Award for Katsuya in Glendale.

Paul McClean’s Featured Publications

Paul McClean’s work has been featured in various publications in the field of architecture, design, and lifestyle. Here are some of the publications that have featured his work:

Architectural Digest: “A Hollywood Hills Home Boasts a Jaw-Dropping Open-Air Living Room” (feature on the Skyspace house)
The Wall Street Journal: “California Homes That Define Modern Luxury” (feature on McClean Design’s portfolio)
Forbes: “Inside the Most Expensive Home in California: A Modern Marvel In Bel Air” (feature on the Opus condominium tower)
Elle Decor: “A Glass-Walled House in Beverly Hills” (feature on the Hillcrest Residence)
California Home + Design: “A Hollywood Hills Home with Sky-High Views and a Sleek, Modern Design” (feature on the Skyspace house)
Interior Design: “Glass House in the Hollywood Hills” (feature on the Bird Streets residence)
Robb Report: “This Modern Beverly Hills Home Is Designed to Make the Most of Its Hilltop Location” (feature on the Rockbridge Residence)
Luxe Interiors + Design: “A Modern Home That Blends Seamlessly into the Los Angeles Hills” (feature on the Stradella Residence)
Mansion Global: “Opulent Amenities Help Luxury Developments Stand Out” (discussing McClean Design’s work on luxury residential developments)
Haute Living: “Paul McClean: The Architect of Opulence” (an interview with Paul McClean discussing his design philosophy and approach)
Architectural Digest: “Inside the Chicest Ultra-Modern Homes in Los Angeles” (featuring the Stradella Residence and the Blue Jay Way Residence)
The Wall Street Journal: “The Rise of the Over-the-Top Mega-Mansion” (discussing the Opus condominium tower designed by McClean Design)
Forbes: “New California Dreaming: The Opus in Beverly Hills Sets A New Standard For Ultra-Luxury Condos” (a feature on the Opus condominium tower)
Elle Decor: “Inside a Light-Filled Los Angeles Home with an Envy-Inducing Closet” (featuring the Beverly Hills Residence)

Paul McClean and Nile Niami’s Collaboration: “The One”

Paul McClean has worked with Nile Niami, a real estate developer known for building ultra-luxury properties in Los Angeles, on several projects over the years. It is unclear exactly how Paul McClean first met Nile Niami, but it is known that the two began collaborating on high-end real estate projects in the early 2000s. Niami, a film producer turned real estate developer, was known for his ambitious projects that pushed the limits of luxury living.

McClean’s innovative and modern design aesthetic complemented Niami’s vision for cutting-edge, high-end homes, and the two formed a successful partnership.

One of their most notable collaborations was on “The One,” a mega-mansion in Bel Air that was slated to become the most expensive home in the United States when it was completed.

Paul McClean designed the 100,000-square-foot mansion, which features a number of luxury amenities, including a 30-car garage, a 10,000-bottle wine cellar, and a 500-person capacity nightclub. McClean’s design for “The One” was inspired by the principles of modernism and sustainability, with an emphasis on clean lines, minimalism, and the use of natural materials.

While Paul McClean was responsible for the design of “The One,” Nile Niami was the developer and owner of the property. However, the project faced a number of setbacks and delays, and as of 2021, “The One” remained unfinished and was listed for sale for $340 million.

Despite the setbacks with “The One,” Paul McClean and Nile Niami have continued to work together on other projects. Their collaboration has resulted in some of the most impressive and opulent properties in Los Angeles, and their designs have been celebrated for their attention to detail, use of cutting-edge technology, and focus on luxury and comfort.

Despite the success of their collaborations, though, there were also some controversies. In 2017, Paul McClean’s firm was sued by a group of neighbors who claimed that the design of “The One” caused water to flow onto their properties, causing damage. Additionally, in 2019, Nile Niami was sued by a former business partner who claimed that Niami had defrauded him out of millions of dollars in connection with the sale of a property.

Timeline of Paul McClean’s Rise to Success

Paul McClean’s rise to become one of the most sought-after architects in the world is a story of determination, hard work, and a deep passion for design. McClean’s journey began in Ireland, where he grew up and developed a love for architecture at a young age. After earning a degree in architecture from the Dublin Institute of Technology, McClean set his sights on the United States, where he hoped to make his mark in the world of design.

In 1994, McClean moved to Los Angeles, California, and began working for a small architecture firm. It was here that he honed his skills and began to develop his signature style of clean lines, minimalist design, and attention to detail. Despite facing challenges as a newcomer to the competitive world of architecture, McClean was determined to succeed and soon began working on his own projects.

One of McClean’s early successes was a stunning contemporary home in the Hollywood Hills that he designed and built for himself. The home, which was featured in Architectural Digest, showcased McClean’s talent for creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful. It wasn’t long before McClean began receiving requests from clients who were drawn to his unique style and his ability to bring their vision to life.

As McClean’s reputation grew, he began working on increasingly high-profile projects, including luxury homes and commercial spaces for some of the world’s most discerning clients.

Here is a timeline of some of the landmark events in his life:

1964: Paul McClean is born in Dublin, Ireland.
1989: McClean graduates from Dublin Institute of Technology with a degree in architecture.
1990-1996: McClean works as an architect in Dublin, gaining experience in a variety of architectural styles and projects.
1996: McClean moves to Los Angeles to pursue his dream of starting his own architecture firm.
2000: McClean establishes McClean Design, a boutique architecture firm focused on high-end residential and commercial projects.
2009: McClean gains national recognition for his design of the Bird Streets residence in the Hollywood Hills, which is featured in Architectural Digest and other prominent publications.
2010: McClean is named one of Architectural Digest’s “Top 100 Architects and Designers”.
2013: McClean designs his first major commercial project, the Opus, a luxury high-rise building in Beverly Hills.
2014: McClean is commissioned to design his most ambitious project to date, “The One,” a 100,000-square-foot mega-mansion in Bel Air, California, which is expected to be the most expensive home ever built.
2016: McClean is named one of the “Top 50 Architects in the World” by Architectural Digest.
2017: Tragically, McClean passes away at the age of 53 in an accidental drowning incident in France, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and breathtaking architectural designs.

A Closer Look at McClean Design: The Firm Founded by Paul McClean

McClean Design is a boutique architecture firm based in Los Angeles, California that was founded by Paul McClean in the year 2000. Known for their innovative and forward-thinking designs, McClean Design has established itself as one of the leading firms in the luxury real estate industry.

At the core of McClean Design’s philosophy is the belief that great design is the result of a collaborative process that involves clients, designers, and builders working together to create a vision that is both functional and beautiful. McClean’s team strives to create timeless designs that are not only visually stunning but also sustainable and energy-efficient.

Over the years, McClean Design has completed a wide range of projects, from luxury homes and high-end commercial spaces to multi-unit residential developments and hospitality projects. One of their most notable projects is the Opus, a luxury high-rise building in Beverly Hills that was completed in 2013. The building features a unique and striking design that has become an iconic part of the Los Angeles skyline.

But perhaps McClean Design’s most ambitious project ever regarded is “The One,” a 100,000-square-foot mega-mansion in Bel Air, California, which we touched upon earlier.

Despite the tragic loss of Paul McClean in 2017, the firm that he founded continues to thrive, with a team of talented architects and designers dedicated to carrying on his legacy. McClean Design’s commitment to excellence and innovation in design has earned them numerous awards and accolades over the years, cementing their reputation as one of the most respected and sought-after firms in the luxury real estate industry.

Paul McClean’s Death

The cause of Paul McClean’s death was reported to be drowning. He was found in the water near the beach of the exclusive Club 55 in Ramatuelle, France, on September 12, 2017. The circumstances surrounding his death are not entirely clear, but it is believed that he may have been caught in a strong current or undertow while swimming. An investigation was conducted by French authorities, and McClean’s death was ruled an accidental drowning.

Paul McClean was survived by his wife, Emily McClean, and their two children at the time of his death. Emily is also involved in the architecture and design industry, working as a designer and project manager at McClean Design. In addition to his family, Paul McClean also left behind a legacy of stunning and innovative architectural designs that continue to inspire and influence the world of luxury real estate development.

The Impact of Paul McClean on the Luxury Real Estate Industry

Paul McClean’s impact on the luxury real estate industry can hardly be overstated. He was an architect who became synonymous with innovative, modern design that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in high-end homes. His work helped to set new standards for luxury living, and it is still influencing the industry today.

One of McClean’s most significant contributions was his ability to create spaces that seamlessly blended the indoor and outdoor environments. He used natural light and open floor plans to create homes that felt expansive and welcoming, while also offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. McClean’s use of clean lines, minimalist design, and high-end materials helped to create homes that were as functional as they were beautiful.

Perhaps most importantly, Paul McClean’s work helped to redefine what was possible in luxury real estate. He was known for designing homes that were not just impressive, but also sustainable and environmentally conscious. His homes often featured state-of-the-art technology and energy-efficient systems, showcasing his commitment to creating sustainable, long-lasting structures.

McClean’s work was also known for its attention to detail. He believed that every element of a home should be considered, from the furniture to the lighting to the landscaping. This attention to detail helped to create homes that felt cohesive and harmonious, with every element working together to create a complete design experience.

Overall, Paul McClean’s impact on the luxury real estate industry was significant and far-reaching. His innovative designs helped to redefine what was possible in high-end homes, while also setting new standards for sustainability, functionality, and attention to detail. His legacy continues to inspire architects, designers, and homeowners around the world, and his contributions to the industry will be felt for years to come.