The adult Akech was born en route to the Kakuma refugee settlement in Kenya, where she spent her first five years. She subsequently emigrated to Adelaide, Australia, where she joined a local modelling agency as a student before being appointed as the exclusive global model for Anthony Vaccarello’s debut Yves Saint Laurent show. The famously gap-toothed beauty, now 21 years old, has become one of the world’s most sought-after models, landing campaigns and walking runways for Alexander McQueen, Prada, Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs, Fendi, Givenchy, and Versace, to name a few.
In 2019, the international Vogue cover model was named Model of the Year by the British Fashion Council and named to the TIME 100 Next list of rising talents and up-and-comers shaping their respective industries. Moreover, she was recently appointed global brand ambassador for Estée Lauder, which means she is featured in all of the company’s cosmetics and skincare advertisements. According to her Instagram feed, Akech also appears to be a budding real estate magnate, having already purchased four properties outside the United States. Her most recent purchase, a brand-new Studio City property that she recently acquired for $2.8 million, is her first American outpost.
This year’s construction of Akech’s contemporary residence near the Los Angeles River features four bedrooms, 4.5 restrooms, and 3,000 square feet of living space. The white stucco structure is protected by an exterior camera and is fronted by a wide walkway flanked by a small strip of grass, as well as a concrete and grass-accented driveway that terminates at a two-car garage.
The open-concept floor plan is highlighted by vaulted ceilings, blonde hardwood floors, smart-home technology, and Lutron lighting installed throughout. The main level features a dining room, a living room with a fireplace, and a modern gourmet kitchen with a marble waterfall island and Miele appliances. The entire level features floor-to-ceiling Fleetwood glass sliding doors that lead to a private backyard with an attractive zero-edge pool and spa surrounded by multiple patios.
A master retreat with a fireplace, balcony, and designer showroom wardrobe, as well as a marble-clad bathroom with dual vanities, an oval soaking tub, and a glass-enclosed rain shower, awaits those who ascend a striking floating staircase. Two additional en-suite bedrooms with large closets and balconies are also located on this level, in addition to a cosy outdoor lounge area with a fireplace accessible from the master suite and corridor.
