Airbnb is partnering with the Barbie movie to give away a free stay in a real human-sized Malibu Barbie Dream House, the company said Monday, after videos circulated of a hot pink house seemingly appearing on the California coast out of nowhere—the second time the California property has been listed on Airbnb for a Barbie promotion.
The Barbie Dream House in Malibu Captured From Above. (Airbnb) AIRBNB
KEY FACTS
Airbnb announced it is giving away a pair of one-night stays next month at the Dream House, which is privately owned and operated and not normally used for Airbnb rentals, the company said.
The house is by El Pescador State Beach in Western Malibu, a beach community known for wealthy residents and high-end homes—neighboring houses to the east and west of the house are estimated to be worth more than $5.2 million, according to Zillow.
The “Ken-themed” mansion on the beach is pink from floor-to-ceiling and includes toy-inspired decor, an infinity pool and a wraparound balcony, but it has no kitchen or washer and can only accommodate two guests, according to its Airbnb listing.
TANGENT
Videos and images of a mysterious Barbie house gained attention online Sunday, when a local news helicopter spotted the house from the sky.
KEY BACKGROUND
The home previously was listed on Airbnb in October 2019 for $60 a night for Barbie’s 60th anniversary. The recent relisting adds to an already extensive marketing campaign for Barbie, director Greta Gerwig’s live-action film, which will premiere in theaters next month with a $100 million budget. Airbnb is also making a one-time donation to Save the Children, a non-profit organization, “to build girls’ confidence and help them excel in school,” according to Airbnb.
SURPRISING FACT
Mattel ran a fictional listing of Barbie’s Malibu Dream House in 2013 on Trulia, including a legitimate real estate agent for the campaign.
FURTHER READING
Why ‘Barbie’ Is Going Viral: What To Know About Margot Robbie And Ryan Gosling’s Upcoming Movie (Forbes)
Barbie’s Malibu DreamHouse — Ken’s Version — Is Back on Airbnb, and You Can Stay for Free (Bloomberg)
