The sprawling 14,768‑sq‑ft mansion known as the Versailles of La Jolla has been relisted at $27.9 million after a June 2024 price of $33.9 million proved too steep for the ultra‑wealthy market. Built in 1929 and once a backdrop for a 1990 meeting between American journalists and Soviet Consul General Valentin Kamenev, the property now seeks a buyer who will presere its architectural and horticultural legacy.

Price reduction to $27.9 million targets niche ultra‑luxury buyers

The current owners cut the asking price by $6 million, a move they hope will widen the pool of potential purchasers capable of financing a property of this magnitude. According to the listing, the estate offers eight bedrooms, eleven bathrooms, and a suite of amenities—including a tennis court, two koi ponds, and two guest houses—that place it among the most opulent homes in San Diego County. The price adjustment reflects a broader trend in the ultra‑high‑end market, where properties often linger for months before a suitable buyer emerges.

Architect Ullrich’s 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival masterpiece

Designed by regional architect Ullrich, who is credited with more than twenty‑five La Jolla structures, the mansion exemplifies the Spanish Colonial Revival style that defined early‑20th‑century California. The home’s historic designation is reinforced by distinctive features such as eleven fireplaces, custom‑tiled sinks, and hidden screen windows that keep insects out while preserving views. As the report notes, Ullrich’s portfolio also includes several churches, underscoring his influence on the area’s built environment.

Landscaping legacy of Kate Sessions or her nephew Milton

While official records are sparse, the estate’s lush gardens are widely believed to have been crafted by famed horticulturalist Kate Sessions—or possibly her nephew Milton Sessions. the grounds boast a sparkling pool,a professional tennis court, and two koi ponds, creating a private botanical sanctuary that has long attracted affluent owners who value both privacy and natural beauty.

Cold‑War diplomatic history adds geopolitical cachet

Beyond its architectural splendor, the mansion served as a venue for a pivotal March 1990 meeting between American journalists, international‑relations experts, and Soviet Consul General Valentin Kamenev. The gathering, held during the USSR’s final turbulent years, focused on press freedom in Russia, cementing the home’s place in diplomatic lore. As the source reports, the property’s owners have historically rejected offers that would compromise its historic integrity, preferring buyers who respect its storied past.

Unanswered questions: future use and preservation commitments

Potential buyers still face two key uncertainties: whether the new owner will maintain the Sessions‑designed landscape and how they will balance modern luxury upgrades with Ullrich’s historic architecture.. The listing does not disclose if any preservation easements are attached, leaving room for speculation about future alterations.