Billionaire Darwin Deason Lists His $108 Million Cliffside ‘Versailles’ Mansion in La Jolla After $60 Million Renovation

In La Jolla, California, a property unlike any other has made its way to the market for an astounding $108 million, potentially setting a new real estate record for San Diego County. Known as “The Sandcastle,” this palatial estate was the creation of billionaire Darwin Deason, a prominent figure in the tech world and founder of Affiliated Computer Services, which he sold to Xerox for over $6 billion. Deason, a Dallas-based political donor, spent over a decade meticulously constructing and renovating this cliffside masterpiece.

The Sandcastle, perched above La Jolla Bay, is a 13,000-square-foot property with 10 bedrooms, 17 bathrooms, and luxurious amenities that make it feel more like a private resort than a home. Deason reportedly spent an additional $60 million in renovations after acquiring the property in 2009 for $18.15 million. One of the most unique aspects of the estate is its private beach, designed with sand imported from the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club—a feature not commonly found in California beachfront homes.

Designed to evoke the grandeur of Versailles, the estate boasts elaborate architectural details, including gold-leafed ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and hand-carved stone columns. The interiors, curated by world-renowned designer Timothy Corrigan, blend European luxury with modern convenience, creating a space that is both opulent and serene.

A Decade in the Making

The journey to complete this estate was long and laborious. Originally built by developer Doug Manchester in 2005, the property was purchased by Deason for its breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. Deason then embarked on a years-long project to transform the home, drawing inspiration from French landmarks like Versailles and the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes. Every detail was designed to perfection, from the bespoke chandeliers to the Thassos-tiled saltwater pool.

Lavish Features and Amenities

The estate’s grounds span 0.82 acres and include a range of luxury amenities designed for ultimate comfort and privacy. The primary house features a grand living room with arched windows, a dining room fit for hosting 16 guests, and an outdoor wraparound terrace perfect for taking in panoramic ocean views.

The estate also includes two cabanas, a beachfront boathouse with a small kitchen, a fitness center, and a wood-paneled office. For added exclusivity, the property boasts a private, elevated beach, making it one of the rare La Jolla properties to offer direct beach access. The guesthouse, inspired by the Petit Trianon of Versailles, has its own set of intricate detailing, including hand-painted sea imagery and 18th-century statues.

A Rare Opportunity

The Sandcastle is an unmatched offering in the La Jolla real estate market. According to the listing agents, Brett Dickinson and Ross Clark of Compass, this home is not just a luxurious residence but also an architectural masterpiece that provides one-of-a-kind oceanfront living. Deason’s decision to list the property comes as he plans to focus on his other residences, which include homes in Dallas and Cabo San Lucas.

This record-setting listing is poised to break San Diego County’s previous high of $44 million, set earlier in 2024 when billionaire Egon Durban purchased an oceanfront home in Del Mar. The Sandcastle’s combination of rare beach access, historical design inspiration, and bespoke finishes ensures that it will remain one of the most sought-after properties on the West Coast.

Billionaire Darwin Deason is best known as the founder of Affiliated Computer Services (ACS), which he sold to Xerox for over $6 billion in 2009. Deason, a prominent figure in the business world, has also been a major Republican political donor. With a luxurious lifestyle, he is the owner of several prestigious properties, including “The Sand Castle,” a grand estate in La Jolla, California, inspired by French architecture. Deason spent around $60 million renovating the estate, which features elaborate details and a private beach. Known for his passion for fine craftsmanship, Deason’s properties reflect his taste for opulence and exclusivity.