Billionaire Darwin Deason’s $108 Million La Jolla Estate: The Iconic “Sand Castle”
Billionaire Darwin Deason, the founder of Affiliated Computer Services, transformed his $108 million La Jolla estate, famously known as the Sand Castle, into a coastal masterpiece.
Purchased in 2009 for $18.15 million, this 13,000-square-foot property boasts 10 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms, perched dramatically above the cliffs of La Jolla, California. Deason’s estate showcases his dedication to luxury and exclusivity, combining meticulous design with breathtaking ocean views.
Property Highlights
- Price: $108 million
- Location: La Jolla, California
- Size: 13,000 square feet
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 10 bedrooms, 18 bathrooms
- Notable Features: Private beach with sand imported from Augusta National, cliffside views, massive renovations, luxury amenities
A Cliffside Marvel Over a Decade in the Making
Deason spent more than a decade constructing and renovating the Sand Castle estate. After purchasing it in 2009, he invested over $60 million in renovations, transforming the residence into a modern luxury icon.
The cliffside property offers unparalleled privacy and panoramic views of the Pacific, allowing residents to experience California coastal living at its finest.
Entrance and Front Courtyard
The entrance to this Versailles-inspired estate is a grand display of French elegance and meticulous design. An arched stone gateway, adorned with wrought iron details and flanked by classic lanterns, opens to reveal a magnificent courtyard.
Inside, a stone fountain serves as the focal point, surrounded by carefully trimmed hedges and classical urns. The architecture of the main building boasts intricate moldings and tall windows, echoing the grandeur of European chateaux.
French-Inspired Living Spaces and Modern Design
The 13,000 square feet of interior space are meticulously designed with high-end finishes and custom elements that reflect Deason’s unique taste.
Foyer and Den
The foyer of this French chateau-inspired estate greets you with intricate wrought iron railings, marble floors, and classical detailing on the walls. Elegant sconces and delicate moldings enhance the opulence, leading into an expansive den.
In the den, a coffered ceiling with elaborate patterns complements the lavish furnishings, including an ornate fireplace and luxurious seating. With polished marble floors and regal décor, this space exudes timeless grandeur, setting a refined tone for the rest of the residence.
Main Living Area
The main living area of this exquisite estate exudes old-world elegance and sophistication. A grand chandelier illuminates the expansive space, with its intricately coffered ceiling and hand-carved wood detailing adding layers of opulence.
Anchored by a plush, beige sectional, the room invites comfort and luxury, framed by vintage artworks and a custom-built aquarium embedded in the wall. The decor balances classic European influences with a serene, homey ambiance, creating an environment both refined and welcoming.
Master Suite
The master suite exudes luxury, with an opulent bed framed by ornate, tufted upholstery and draped in lavish fabrics.
A crystal chandelier hangs from a tray ceiling, casting light across the spacious room and enhancing the view through large glass doors that open to a private balcony overlooking the ocean.
The suite includes a bathroom that mirrors the elegance of a classical villa, featuring mirrored cabinetry, golden accents, and a freestanding marble tub next to large windows.
A vanity area with intricate details and a view of the sea completes this retreat, combining functionality with the utmost elegance.
Additional Guest Bedrooms
With 10 bedrooms and 18 bathrooms, the property provides ample space for family, guests, and staff.
Each room has been designed to maximize comfort and privacy, offering a blend of traditional elegance and modern amenities.
In addition to each guest room having a large suite with oceanfront views, every room is also matched with a private bathroom.
Gourmet Kitchen and Entertainment Spaces
The chef’s kitchen exudes elegance with its custom wood cabinetry, gleaming granite countertops, and high-end stainless steel appliances, including a professional-grade range with an oversized vent hood.
The layout is thoughtfully designed, offering ample counter space for culinary preparation, while a dedicated bar area in the corner features stylish shelving for bottles and barware.
Adjacent to the kitchen, the formal dining room is a grand, opulent space with expansive ocean views, intricately decorated walls, and a lavish chandelier that casts a warm glow over a long, polished dining table surrounded by ornately carved chairs, perfect for hosting large gatherings in a truly luxurious setting.
Other Luxury Amenities Within The Home
This magnificent estate spares no detail in delivering luxury at every turn.
The Manhattan-themed bar, with its rich wood paneling, leather seating, and vintage detailing, transports you to an old-world lounge, while the panoramic ocean views beyond its arched windows create a striking contrast between classic sophistication and coastal beauty.
The home office is equally impressive, a sanctuary of polished wood and custom cabinetry that provides a distinguished, productive space framed by expansive views.
Keeping in shape is less difficult, the new owners will find the fully-equipped gym, complete with top-of-the-line equipment and wall-to-wall mirrors, a personal haven for wellness.
Outdoor Spaces and Unmatched Views
The Sand Castle’s cliffside location offers both stunning views and unmatched privacy. Outdoor terraces and balconies overlook the Pacific, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxing or entertaining.
The property’s lush landscaping, spacious lounge areas, and fire pits enhance the feeling of a secluded paradise, allowing residents to fully enjoy Southern California’s idyllic climate.
Stunning Cliffside Pool Area
The pool area exudes a grand, resort-like ambiance, surrounded by elegant arches and classical balustrades that mirror the mansion’s architectural splendor.
Tall palm trees frame the picturesque view, with multiple lounge areas and umbrellas providing a luxurious space for relaxation.
The pool itself is designed with pristine blue water and a built-in spa, making it a perfect spot to soak while taking in the serene ocean views beyond.
Heading Down To The Oceanfront Patio and Beach Cabana
A winding staircase, elegantly lined with balustrades, leads from the main terrace down toward the oceanfront patio and private beach cabana. Set against the rugged cliffside, the cabana offers a secluded escape, complete with outdoor seating shaded by large umbrellas.
Through an arched doorway carved into the rock, guests are greeted by uninterrupted views of the ocean—a serene spot for relaxation and enjoying the sound of the waves.
Beachfront Cabana and Sunbathing Areas
The beach cabana, located right by the oceanfront, offers a shaded, intimate space for enjoying drinks and refreshments.
With open windows framing the vast seascape, it creates a cozy spot to relax, perfect for savoring a morning coffee or a laid-back summer lunch with friends or family.
Adjacent to the cabana, a lounge area features a row of sun loungers, ideal for sunbathing or unwinding with the ocean breeze, maximizing the outdoor experience along the coastline.
Final Thoughts
Deason’s investment and years of dedication to the Sand Castle estate reflect his passion for creating a residence that is both luxurious and personal. The $108 million property, with its exclusive features and refined design, serves as a testament to his achievements and his eye for detail.
With 13,000 square feet, 10 bedrooms, 18 bathrooms, and a private beach, this iconic property embodies the best of California coastal living. Perched above the La Jolla cliffs, the Sand Castle is a rare piece of real estate that seamlessly combines breathtaking views, world-class amenities, and refined design, making it one of the most remarkable estates on the West Coast.
