As profiled in D Magazine, billionaire entrepreneur Darwin Deason was born in 1940 in rural Arkansas. His boyhood, according to Forbes, was inauspicious. He grew up on an farm, and often, his family couldn’t even spare $1 to send him to the movies.
From that sparse beginning, Deason started his career as a computer programmer. In 1969, at age 29, he became cofounder of MTech, a data processing firm. He eventually rose to the role of CEO.
When MTech was sold out from underneath him in 1988, Deason started Affiliated Computer Services (ASC), Dallas, Texas. He grew the firm vigorously, expanding its initial focus (processing financial services data) to encompass industries such as healthcare, government, manufacturing, insurance, and even travel.
In 2009, Deason sold ACS to Xerox for $6.4 billion. In the aftermath of that transaction, he turned his professional interests to being a private investor and political activist, again as cited by D Magazine.
The Zillow listing for Deason’s La Jolla, Calif., estate likens its architecture to France’s Palace of Versailles. It notes the property’s 12,981 sq. ft. of living space, its 10 bedrooms, and its 14 bathrooms. The abundance of amenities associated with this property makes its name, The Sand Castle, quite appropriate.
Before a visitor has even exited his or her car, an impression has been made: This property is one-of-a-kind in terms of lavishness and comfort.
The walk from the drive to the entryway of The Sand Castle provides a full surround of upscale living and poshness.
One step inside brings an audible gasp at the ornate use of marble, metal, and glass to dazzle—not overwhelm—visitors.
The first floor has an open concept, with no real architectural barriers among its specific spaces. The living room, bar, and outdoor patio are all freely accessible
Mealtime becomes an elegant affair, whether the menu comprises hand-held tacos or gorgeously plated Chateaubriand.
A professional chef will be just as efficient in the kitchen as a member of the family; in either case, crafting an unforgettable menu is easier in a well-appointed setting such as this.
After a sumptuous meal, an apéritif at the bar makes a wonderful capper.
In the winter, even southern California can get a chill. The nearby fireplace, in another sitting room of its own, provides both warmth and welcome.
If guests are staying over, several bedrooms are available upstairs to give them repose.
Lux bathrooms aren’t just afforded to the homeowners of The Sand Castle; guests, too, can benefit from a quiet soak.
As noted above, there are 10 bedrooms under the roof of The Sand Castle. Each, like this one, has a distinct design and atmosphere. A host can easily match sleeping quarters to the preferences of each guest.
When it comes to recreation within the home, an onsite gym provides a convenient way of burning off some calories and building some muscle.
But of all the recreational possibilities, the most alluring (given the California setting) are outdoors. When it comes to low-impact enjoyment, the oceanside veranda is unparalleled for unwinding.
Should the air temps become a little too warm, a dip in the pool is the perfect remedy.
Perhaps an excursion on the Pacific is in order. The property’s boat dock makes departures and arrivals an easy task to navigate.
All that fresh air and sunshine can leave a visitor parched. Good thing there’s an outside bar, stocked and ready to provide some liquid refreshment.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a castle that resembles the Palace of Versailles, now’s your chance: The Sand Castle, a stunning waterfront property in La Jolla, California, is up for sale. You’ll just need to shell out a cool $108 million.
The Darwin Deason property at 1900 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, Calif., is listed at $108 million. Full details are available at Zillow.
