Trancas Malibu: An Interview With Holly and Chris Luxury Homes Group

This week’s blog focuses on the Holly and Chris Luxury Homes Group, the real estate team responsible for marketing and growing the excitement about Trancas Malibu’s debut and exclusive community. Holly Hatch and Chris Johnson are experts in the industry, and I was lucky to spend part of the day on site in Malibu shadowing them as they showed me around the Anacapa property, and showed me the beginnings of Catalina, the second property to be constructed. If you didn’t catch last week’s blog, read it here to get the full update on both of those builds. They introduced me to Dustin Khaleghi, the very humble and very brilliant mastermind behind this stunning development, as well as the building team and architects on site.

Don’t worry, we’ll be interviewing everyone as this project continues, so you’ll become very familiar with everyone as we welcome you into the Trancas Malibu family!

Before we get into it though…

Let me tell you that words can’t even begin to describe the craftsmanship and detail in these builds. I’m talking the sharpest, cleanest edges I’ve ever seen. There was a moment where Holly, Chris, Dustin and myself were watching as the team laid down tile work that had laser cut holes for the banister bars to slide seamlessly through. It was done with such precision and care – I witnessed masters at work. The views were breathtaking and no picture can truly capture them. Everything was taken into consideration when designing this build – with views on views on views…even in the shower…you have windows that overlook the ocean.

Holly and Chris are easy to talk to, and make you feel like family. I can understand why they were chosen as the team to represent Trancas Malibu, but as you can read below, they are tremendously invested in the success of this community. You can see how they love the existing community in Malibu and want very much to see Trancas become integrated and welcomed. Their thoughtfulness with the environment and excitement about Dustin’s approach to eco enhancements and concept speak volumes. Please enjoy the interview below!

Q: How did your real estate journey lead you to becoming involved in The Trancas Malibu development?

Holly: Our real estate journey has always been driven by a passion for unique properties that truly resonate with the landscape and the community. Malibu, with its stunning natural beauty and distinctive character, has always been a place we’ve admired. When the opportunity to be part of The Trancas Malibu development came up, it felt like a natural progression in our careers. We’ve always sought to represent properties that offer something special, and this project perfectly aligned with our vision of luxury real estate that complements its surroundings.

Q: What was your initial reaction when Dustin first presented this project to you? What excited you the most about it?

Holly: When Dustin first presented the project, we were immediately struck by the potential to create something truly extraordinary. The concept of blending luxury with the natural beauty of Malibu was incredibly exciting. What thrilled us most was the idea of developing a community that not only offers luxury living but also respects and enhances the environment it’s set in.

Q: Malibu is a unique location with its own character. How do you envision this development complementing the existing landscape and community?

Chris:  Malibu is renowned for its natural beauty, and our goal with The Trancas Malibu development is to create something that feels like a natural extension of the landscape. We envision this development blending seamlessly with its surroundings, offering modern luxury while respecting Malibu’s unique character. The design emphasizes open spaces, natural materials, and architecture that mirrors the coastal environment, ensuring it complements rather than disrupts the existing community.

Q: Can you talk about any specific features or amenities of this development that you believe will set it apart from other luxury properties in the area?

Holly: One of the standout features of The Trancas Malibu development is its commitment to integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces. The homes are designed with expansive glass walls that open up to panoramic ocean views, creating a seamless flow between the interiors and the natural surroundings. The Craftsmanship and Finishes are like nothing else seen in Malibu. The attention to detail and the unique architectural features are thoughtfully laid out to match the landscape of Trancas Canyon and the beautiful Malibu topography. 

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges the team has faced during the planning stages of this development?

Chris: One of the biggest challenges the team faced was ensuring that the development would be both environmentally sustainable and luxurious. Balancing these two priorities required careful planning and collaboration with environmental experts, architects, and designers. The team was committed to preserving the natural beauty of the area while also delivering a high-end experience for future residents. Navigating local regulations and ensuring that our plans were in harmony with the Malibu community’s values was also a significant focus.

Q: Can you share any personal experiences or moments thus far during this project that have stood out to you?

Holly: One of the most memorable moments was standing on the site where the development will take shape and realizing the endless potential of the location. Seeing the vision come to life, even in the early stages, was incredibly exciting. We also cherish the collaborative spirit of everyone involved—seeing how passionate and dedicated the entire team is to creating something special has been a highlight of the process.

Q: What aspects of Trancas Malibu are you most proud of, and why do you think they will resonate with potential buyers?  

Holly:  This development honors the natural environment while offering a luxurious lifestyle, and that’s something we are so proud of! The attention to detail in the design, the emphasis on sustainability, and the thoughtful inclusion of amenities all contribute to a living experience that we believe will resonate deeply with buyers who appreciate both luxury and the beauty of nature. The sense of community we’re fostering, paired with the exclusivity of the project, makes it truly unique.

Q: How do you think this development will impact the local Malibu community, both in terms of aesthetics and lifestyle?

Chris:  We believe The Trancas Malibu development will positively impact the local community by setting a new standard for luxury living that’s in harmony with the environment. Aesthetically, it will enhance the natural beauty of the area rather than detract from it. In terms of lifestyle, it will attract like-minded individuals who value privacy, sustainability, and a strong connection to nature, further enriching the Malibu community.

Q: What is your personal vision for the future of luxury real estate in Malibu, and how does this project fit into that vision? 

Chris: Our vision for the future of luxury real estate in Malibu is one that prioritizes sustainability, respects the natural beauty of the area, and offers a lifestyle that is both luxurious and in tune with nature. The Trancas Malibu development is a perfect embodiment of this vision. We see it as a blueprint for future projects that aspire to offer high-end living without compromising the environment or the unique character of Malibu.

Q: As Realtors, what have been the most rewarding aspects of working on such a high-end development, and how has it influenced your future real estate goals?  

Holly: Working on The Trancas Malibu development has been remarkably rewarding because it’s more than just selling homes—it’s about creating a legacy. Being part of a project that pushes the boundaries of luxury while maintaining a strong commitment to the environment has influenced our future goals by reinforcing our desire to work on developments that offer something truly unique and meaningful. It’s inspired us to seek out and champion projects that prioritize both luxury and sustainability.

Q: Any other thoughts you’d like to share?

Holly: We are beyond excited about what The Trancas Malibu development represents—not just for us as Realtors, but for the future of luxury living in Malibu. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when visionaries come together with a shared commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community. We can’t wait to see how it all comes together and to welcome the future residents who will call this incredible place home.

two people holding hands walking up a hill with a very blue cloudless sky