An architect from Ontario is now entrusted with a monumental task: designing a sprawling estate for Mark Zuckerberg in Miami. Ferris Rafauli, based in Oakville, is the creative force behind this mega-mansion, rising on the exclusive Indian Creek Island – a place already nicknamed the “Billionaire Bunker.”
Indian Creek Island isn’t just exclusive; it’s a world unto itself. The nearly 300-acre, gated community holds only 41 waterfront properties, protected by its own private police force. It’s a haven for the ultra-wealthy, where the term “home” feels almost inadequate to describe the scale of the residences.
Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscilla Chan, are poised to become neighbors with a remarkable roster of names, including Jeff Bezos, Ivanka Trump, and Tom Brady. Rafauli’s design is still unfolding, but glimpses shared reveal a project of immense ambition and detail.
Rafauli, previously known for crafting “The Embassy,” the lavish estate of rapper Drake, showcased his process – from initial sketches to stunning visualizations of the finished masterpiece. One video depicts him thoughtfully surveying the skeletal structure of the estate, a solitary figure amidst the potential.
The investment itself is staggering. Zuckerberg’s purchase price reached a record-breaking $170 million US, marking one of the most significant real estate transactions in Miami’s history. The property originally listed for $200 million in late 2025.
The previous owners, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Aaron Rollins and his wife Marine Rollins, spent years meticulously designing and building a mansion on the two-acre lot, having acquired it for over $30 million in 2020. Their vision now makes way for Zuckerberg’s grand plans.
The new estate promises to be a realm of unparalleled luxury. Plans include nine bedrooms, fifteen bathrooms, and a breathtaking 5,700-litre aquarium. Residents and guests will enjoy a state-of-the-art theatre, a private hair salon, a heated pool, a fully-equipped gym, and direct water access via a private dock spanning 200 feet.
The timing of this move coincides with proposed legislation in California – a potential one-time 5% tax on billionaires with assets exceeding $1 billion. This shift in the tax landscape may be a contributing factor to Zuckerberg’s relocation to Florida, a state with no state personal income tax.
Rafauli’s expertise lies in crafting exceptional luxury homes, with a portfolio that includes prestigious properties in Muskoka and along Oakville’s Gold Coast. His work consistently draws praise for its flawless execution and spectacular design.
The project is currently under construction, with a completion date yet to be announced. As Rafauli continues to bring his vision to life, the world watches, anticipating the unveiling of a truly remarkable estate.
