ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Nick Van Exel's Former Houston Mansion with $500K Cinema Listed for $12M

architecture-design · 2026-08-11

A mansion in Houston, previously owned by NBA All-Star Nick Van Exel, is currently listed for $11.99 million. Located in Royal Oaks Country Club, this expansive 20,900-square-foot residence boasts six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and six powder rooms. Designed by Paul Olson, it features 72 custom walnut doors, two elevators, and an impressive front entrance. The highlight is a 2,800-square-foot primary closet complete with built-in cabinetry and a lounge area. Other notable amenities include a cinema with 13 seats, a two-lane bowling alley, a 3,000-gallon aquarium, and an infinity-edge pool. Van Exel sold the home in 2012 for $2.9 million, and it underwent renovations exceeding $14 million. Sarah Y'nhi Huynh purchased it for $9 million in 2024, with the listing handled by Diane Kingshill and Jason Lee Villarreal of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty.

Key facts

  • The mansion is listed for $11.99 million.
  • It was once owned by NBA All-Star Nick Van Exel and appeared on MTV's 'Cribs'.
  • The home spans over 20,900 square feet.
  • The primary closet is approximately 2,800 square feet.
  • The cinema features $500,000 in California Audio Technology speakers.
  • The property includes a two-lane Brunswick bowling alley and a 3,000-gallon aquarium.
  • Van Exel sold it in 2012 for $2.9 million; the Buggs spent over $14 million renovating it.
  • Sarah Y'nhi Huynh bought it in 2024 for $9 million via sealed-bid auction.

Entities

Artists

  • Nick Van Exel
  • Paul Olson
  • Steven G.
  • Marc-Michaels
  • Holton Buggs
  • Earlene Buggs
  • Sarah Y'nhi Huynh
  • Diane Kingshill
  • Jason Lee Villarreal

Institutions

  • Royal Oaks Country Club
  • Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty
  • MTV

Locations

  • Houston
  • United States
  • Texas

Sources