Roberta and Chris Hanley represent a unique creative partnership that seamlessly combines both romantic and professional collaborations. Their unwavering commitment to art and culture has influenced numerous projects, including their notable contributions to films like American Psycho, The Virgin Suicides and Spring Breakers, and their creation of The Invisible House, an architectural masterpiece recognized as possibly the most photographed private residence in the world. 

Amidst an ocean of barren hills and sand-strewn dunes, this illustrious duo preside over their extraordinary estates: The Invisible House (pictured above) and The Grow. Remarkably, The Grow. The latter, which once served as an illicit refuge for the cultivation of narcotics by its previous owners, now stands in stark contrast to the magnificent haven the Hanleys have cultivated in Landers, affectionately referred to by UFO enthusiasts as “alien territory.” 

The Grow (pictured above and in the three images below), a sister property to The Invisible House, captivates with its stunning array of light installations, bespoke furniture, and priceless artworks adorning its walls. The property’s highIight is a minimalist, infinity edge pool that affords mesmerizing vistas of the desert’s vast and rugged expanse, offering the perfect vantage point to experience both the sunrise and sunset and the possibility of an alien spotting.

Adjacent to the residence, a multifaceted production studio doubles as an event space, a seemingly inapt yet fitting addition to the desert landscape. The Mars-like terrain of this locale will kindle the most profound and spiritual facets of anyone visiting the property, especially individuals like myself – a technology enthusiast who perennially craves novel experiences and the rush of dopamine.

The Hanleys’ influence transcends the realms of art, film, and architecture; they serve as conduits for fostering connections and instigating change. In lengthy discussions over dinner, Chris and I delved into the intriguing intersection of artificial intelligence and cinema. As I departed, Chris was already catalyzing new business ventures within this space – a testament to their perpetual quest for innovation and disruption.

This dynamic couple is driven to make an impact on their respective industries, consistently redefining the manner in which we engage within the confluence of nature, technology, and the arts. Conversing with them is an unparalleled experience; they exude an infectious, childlike enthusiasm for the world, often completing each other’s sentences and discussing a variety of topics. 

Pictured above: Chris and Roberta Hanley photographed by Michael Kelley, directed by Liz Reid for Vogue.

Upon leaving Joshua Tree, I sought the perspective of the locals regarding the Hanley’s contributions to the community. Their unanimous response echoed the immeasurable value the duo has infused into the town, attributing its widespread recognition to the Hanley’s ceaseless efforts, which draws creatives, A-list celebrities, and media from around the globe to experience the wonders of the desert, the local culture and its celebrated National Park.  

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by Amanda Johnstone and Julian Banks
Images: Invisible House, Vogue, Airbnb, Getty