The Sand Castle is an extraordinary example of French Riviera-inspired architecture located in La Jolla, California. Renowned as one of the most iconic waterfront estates in the area, this magnificent property features one of the very few private beaches on-property in California. The architectural style is an elegant homage to the finest manors of the French Riviera, showcasing meticulous European design with bespoke interiors and exteriors expertly curated by the global interior design icon Timothy Corrigan. The estate includes a Main House and Guest Residence surrounded by expansive manicured grounds that cocoon the home in privacy and security. This one-of-a-kind estate, listed at $108,000,000, epitomizes opulence and exclusivity on the California coastline, offering grand hotel-like luxury living with a solid gold gilded theme throughout its richly appointed rooms.
Grand Entry Gate
This stately entryway features an impressive arched stone gateway with intricately carved columns and a wrought iron gate adorned with elegant scrollwork. Flanking the entrance, classic lantern-style wall sconces emit a warm glow against the creamy beige stone, enhancing the grandeur as dusk approaches. Beyond the gate, a formal courtyard is accentuated by a symmetrical stone fountain with a floral arrangement in the center, surrounded by neatly trimmed hedges and a paved stone pathway with geometric inlays. The sophisticated architectural details and lush greenery establish a refined and welcoming first impression to the home.
Living Room with Ocean View
This spacious living room exudes classic elegance with a neutral, cream and beige color palette that complements the serene ocean backdrop. The seating arrangement features plush, upholstered sofas and armchairs in coordinating tones, creating an inviting conversation area centered on a glass coffee table. Ornate side tables and antique-style lamps add sophistication. The ceiling displays exquisite, intricate white coffered panels, enhancing the room’s grandeur. Floor-to-ceiling arched windows and sliding glass doors provide panoramic views of the shimmering sea and open onto a stone-columned outdoor terrace with a dining area, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.
Elegant Dining Room
This grand dining room features a long polished wooden table surrounded by sixteen intricately carved chairs upholstered in rich gold patterned fabric. The room boasts a circular layout with tall, arched windows draped in sheer, flowing curtains that allow abundant natural light and offer breathtaking ocean views. Ornate gold detailing embellishes the coffered ceiling and walls, complementing an opulent crystal chandelier hanging at the center. Classic sideboards with ornate mirrors and matching sconces further enhance the luxurious ambiance. The overall aesthetic combines classical elegance with stunning coastal scenery, creating a regal yet inviting atmosphere.
Outdoor Kitchen and Patio
This stunning outdoor kitchen features rich, dark wood cabinetry with detailed paneling and a light, polished stone countertop that wraps around in an L-shape. Above, exposed wooden beams add rustic charm and enhance the warm, inviting ambiance. A small food stand or serving tray sits on the counter, alongside a shiny blender, suggesting a space designed for casual outdoor dining. Large open windows frame breathtaking ocean views, allowing natural light and sea breezes to fill the space. Adjacent to the kitchen, a spacious tiled patio includes a table with wrought iron chairs and a large white umbrella, ideal for alfresco meals by the water.
Elegant Oceanview Sitting Room
This sitting room exudes timeless elegance with its rich wood paneling and intricately detailed coffered ceiling, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Four large, arched windows frame breathtaking views of the ocean, inviting natural light to flood the space. The long, tufted sofa in muted earth tones stretches along the wall, complemented by two ornately patterned armchairs. Three round side tables with dark wood bases and gold accents are thoughtfully placed for convenience and style. Classic lamps with pleated shades add a soft glow, enhancing the room’s sophisticated, old-world charm while embracing a coastal ambiance.
Bathroom with Marble Tub Surround
This elegant bathroom showcases a large built-in bathtub encased in warm beige marble with rich veining, lending a luxurious, classic feel. The walls are adorned with multiple gold-trimmed mirrors, amplifying the space and adding an ornate touch. Neutral tones dominate the palette, from marble floors to cream-colored walls, creating a serene atmosphere. A glass-enclosed shower with marble walls and a built-in niche enhances the room’s functionality without disrupting the aesthetic. Gold fixtures and well-placed lighting overhead elevate the grandeur. Plush white towels and decorative candlesticks provide subtle accents, completing this refined, spa-like retreat.
Vanity Area
This elegant vanity area features a soft, neutral color palette with touches of gold to add a luxurious feel. The mirrored panels with delicate gold trim cover an entire wall, reflecting light and making the space seem larger. A marble-topped vanity with intricate designs on the drawers complements the ornate, gold-accented chair upholstered in a leopard print fabric. Cream-colored draped curtains soften the large window’s natural light, brightening the room. The open door leads to a bedroom with an ocean view, highlighting the room’s connection to a serene coastal atmosphere. Classic sconces provide warm ambient lighting, completing the refined and timeless design.
Home Office and Library
This elegant home office and library features rich wood paneling that covers the walls and ceiling, creating a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. The black marble floor with white veining adds a sleek, luxurious contrast. A large wooden desk sits by arched windows, offering a view outside and natural light. Classic, leather armchairs and a plush sofa with patterned throw pillows invite comfort and focus. Built-in bookshelves frame the room, filled with books and decorative objects. A traditional chandelier with red lampshades provides ambient lighting, reinforcing the classic, opulent aesthetic of the space.
Home Gym
This spacious home gym features a functional layout designed for various workout routines. Multiple exercise machines, including Cybex and Precor equipment, are neatly arranged with ample spacing on a dark carpeted floor, providing a comfortable and slip-resistant surface. The walls are adorned with large mirrors that enhance the sense of space and allow users to monitor form during workouts. Recessed lighting in the ceiling, complemented by elegant crown molding, adds a refined touch while maintaining brightness. A flat-screen TV at the far end is positioned for entertainment or fitness guidance, creating an inviting atmosphere for exercise.
Oceanfront Balcony
This elegant oceanfront balcony features classical architectural elements with arched stone columns and detailed capitals. The spacious terrace is paved with large, light beige stone tiles that complement the soft, neutral tones of the stucco ceiling and walls. A built-in jacuzzi with mosaic tile lining is nestled in one corner, inviting relaxation while overlooking the stunning view of the ocean. Beyond the stone balustrade, the vibrant blue sea stretches to the horizon, framed by swaying palm trees. Elegant stone steps lead to an upper level, enhancing the grandeur and flow of the outdoor space.
Bedroom Ocean View
This elegant bedroom features a soothing neutral palette with soft creams and beige tones that create a calm, inviting ambiance. A large bed with an upholstered headboard and plush bedding anchors the room, facing expansive bay windows showcasing breathtaking ocean views. The windows are framed with floor-to-ceiling drapes in a subtle pattern, complementing the refined décor. Intricate molding highlights the ceiling edges, adding architectural interest. Opposite the bed, built-in cabinetry with ornate detailing and mirrored panels enhances the sense of space and light, marrying classic luxury with serene coastal charm.
Bathroom Vanity Area
This bathroom vanity features a luxurious, classic design with an elegant cream and gold color palette. The double sink countertop is crafted from polished marble with soft golden hues, matching the ornate gold detailing on the cabinet hardware and faucet fixtures. The cabinets have a distressed white finish with decorative moldings, enhancing the vintage charm. Large mirrored walls create a sense of spaciousness and reflect light from the ornate gold and crystal wall sconces, adding warmth and sophistication. The white tiled backsplash includes a subtle gold scroll pattern, seamlessly tying the design elements together in this refined space.
Living Room Details
This living room exudes classic elegance with a large, beige sectional sofa adorned with neutral-toned cushions, complemented by an antique-style armchair featuring intricately carved wood and upholstery in a matching palette. The rich, patterned Persian rug anchors the seating area atop polished marble flooring, enhancing the room’s sophisticated ambiance. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed by mustard-gold drapes fill the space with soft natural light. A grand, beaded chandelier casts a warm glow from above. On one wall, a dramatic built-in aquarium encased in ornately carved wood serves as a unique focal point, balancing tradition and artistic flair in the room’s design.
Kitchen Workspace and Breakfast Bar
This kitchen area features a functional and spacious layout with natural wood cabinetry paired with a light beige tile backsplash and creamy granite countertops. A professional-grade stainless steel range with a large, curved hood is the central cooking element, flanked by ample cabinet storage. On the right, the space transitions into a cozy breakfast bar with cushioned round stools tucked underneath. Decorative plates and a large ornate vase adorn the wooden wall shelving above the bar, adding a touch of classic charm. The floor is a light stone tile, and soft ceiling lights including two recessed panels offer bright, even illumination, while an adjacent room with elegant dining chairs is visible through an open doorway.
Elegant Powder Room
This powder room exudes luxury with its classic design and refined details. The vanity features a pristine white marble countertop and an underset sink, complemented by ornate gold-tone fixtures. Mirrored cabinets below add depth and sparkle, paired with textured walls framed in subtle gold trim for added sophistication. A large, gold-framed mirror spans the vanity, reflecting warm ambient lighting from crystal sconces that add an artistic flair. Through the open doorway, a glimpse of an adjacent sitting area reveals plush, neutral-toned upholstery, elegant wall sconces, framed botanical art, and a sparkling chandelier, continuing the opulent theme seamlessly.
Bathroom Vanity Area
This elegant bathroom features a rich, warm wood finish throughout, creating a luxurious and cozy atmosphere. The double vanity countertop is adorned with smooth, polished marble sinks that complement the intricate wood cabinetry below. Above the sinks, two decorative mirrors framed with ornate detailing add depth and refinement, accompanied by a classic three-light wall sconce with soft fabric shades. The surrounding walls and ceiling also showcase the same wood texture, emphasizing timeless craftsmanship. The space leads into a separate area, possibly housing a toilet or shower, emphasizing a practical, well-organized layout with sophisticated, traditional design elements.
Living Room with Ocean View
This spacious living area features a grand coffered wood ceiling, adding warmth and intricate architectural detail. Large arched openings seamlessly connect the interior to a stunning outdoor terrace overlooking the ocean, flooding the space with natural light. The furniture is arranged for comfort and conversation, with plush beige sofas and armchairs adorned with coordinating throw pillows. Elegant crystal chandeliers hang centrally, complementing the soft neutral color palette of creams, tans, and golds. Decorative sculptures and classic table lamps enhance the luxurious ambiance, while the polished marble floor adds to the room’s refined sophistication and coastal charm.
Elegant Living Room
This luxury living room features a rich wood-paneled coffered ceiling that adds warmth and architectural depth, paired with polished marble floors that elevate its grandeur. Two cream-toned sofas with plush cushions face a classic white fireplace adorned with intricate gold detailing and topped by a framed tropical beach scene. A crystal chandelier hangs centrally, casting a soft refined glow, complemented by sculptural table lamps with glass bases. The room is further enhanced by elegant gold-trimmed furniture and classical urn-style accents near full-height windows, dressed in sumptuous, patterned draperies, creating a regal, sophisticated ambiance.
Kitchen Details
This kitchen features a warm and inviting design with honey-toned wooden cabinetry that extends to the ceiling, enhancing storage and aesthetic appeal. The classic decorative molding on the cabinets adds a traditional touch, complemented by elegant brass hardware. A stainless steel Viking range and double ovens sit beneath a substantial range hood, blending seamlessly into the design. The countertops are a smooth, polished stone in a neutral beige tone, mirroring the tile flooring. The backsplash is simple with light-colored stone, allowing the textured wallpaper with a subtle gold damask pattern to create visual depth. Natural light floods through the window above the double sink, highlighting the cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. A unique lantern-style chandelier hangs as a focal point, adding character and warm lighting to this beautifully cohesive kitchen space.
Master Bedroom Details
This master bedroom features an airy, elegant atmosphere with soft, neutral tones dominated by beige, tan, and muted greens. A plush, oversized bed with a diamond-tufted velvet headboard forms the centerpiece, complemented by a pale, patterned carpet that adds texture underfoot. Matching bedside tables with modern lamps flank the bed, while a stylish upholstered bench at the foot offers seating. Floor-to-ceiling draperies frame the French doors leading to a balcony, allowing natural light and ocean views to fill the room. Architectural details include crown molding and a chic, multi-tiered glass chandelier that enhances the room’s sophisticated ambiance.
Luxurious Bathroom Details
This bathroom is an elegant blend of classic design and opulence featuring white walls and cabinetry with gold trim accents throughout. The vanity area has double sinks with sleek white marble countertops, complemented by gold fixtures, hardware, and a dual-shaded wall sconce providing soft lighting. A large mirror framed with gold detailing reflects the intricate pattern found on the wallpaper, also echoed in the floor tiles. A beautiful marble-framed arched niche showcases a built-in bathtub with gold faucet fixtures beneath a narrow, arched window allowing natural light. To the side, a glass-encased shower adorned with matching gold trim completes the lavish space.
Elegant Home Bar Area
This refined home bar area features a rich wood-paneled ceiling with coffered details that complement the matching built-in cabinetry behind the bar. The cabinetry has illuminated glass shelves showcasing a collection of glassware and bottles. Plush white swivel bar stools invite comfortable seating, while the warm lighting accentuates the inviting ambience. A classic chandelier hangs above a sturdy wood table surrounded by upholstered chairs, blending traditional elegance and comfort. Large arched openings provide a seamless transition to an outdoor patio with poolside loungers and an ocean view, creating an inviting space for relaxation and entertaining.
Oceanfront Pool Terrace
This luxurious oceanfront pool terrace blends Mediterranean architectural elegance with a serene beachfront setting. The expansive space features a pristine light-toned stone deck surrounding a clear blue swimming pool and circular spa with integrated steps. Multiple white cushioned chaise lounges are arranged neatly, some shaded by large matching umbrellas, inviting relaxation with uninterrupted views of the ocean. Classic balustrades frame the terrace, curving gracefully towards the shoreline, accompanied by well-maintained green hedges and tall, slender palm trees that enhance the tranquil resort-like ambiance. The beige stucco exterior of the adjacent villa complements the coastal palette, adding timeless sophistication to the outdoor retreat.
Elegant Poolside Patio
This luxurious outdoor space centers around a rectangular swimming pool with an adjacent hot tub, framed by a grand staircase that sweeps down into an ornate fountain featuring classical sculptures. The architecture embraces a Mediterranean or Italianate style, with creamy stone balustrades and arches reaching across the covered veranda. The stonework is detailed with carved reliefs and elegant pillars, creating a palatial ambiance. White sun loungers border the pool, inviting relaxation. Tall palm trees tower in the background, complementing the blue sky and enhancing the serene, resort-like atmosphere of the estate.
Poolside Patio and Facade
The scene highlights a luxurious poolside patio set against the backdrop of an opulent Mediterranean-style mansion. The facade features elegant beige stonework with intricate carvings and balustrades lending classical architectural charm. Five grand arches supported by Corinthian columns create an inviting open-air gallery, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. Underneath, white wrought-iron tables and chairs offer intimate seating areas bathed in warm, ambient lighting from ornate black lanterns. The clear blue pool in the foreground offers a refreshing contrast, while the upper balcony with detailed balustrades and arched windows enhances the stately, timeless aesthetic of this sophisticated retreat.
Oceanfront Balcony
This coastal balcony offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, illuminated by a warm, golden sunset. Elegant architectural details include finely crafted stone balustrades and arched colonnades evoking Mediterranean or classical European influences. The soft beige stonework blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings, while outdoor furniture with intricate lattice backrests invites relaxation and socialization. Tall palm trees add tropical ambiance. Ornate wall sconces provide ambient lighting as day transitions to night, creating a serene yet sophisticated outdoor living area perfectly suited for enjoying the tranquil seaside atmosphere.
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Listing Agent: Brett Dickinson of Compass via Zillow