Inside Quail Hill: A $29M Architectural Marvel That Sold for Half the Price
🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube!
Before we dive into this incredible property, be sure to check out the full episode of “Spin The Block” on my YouTube channel! In the video, I break down the history, architecture, and real estate strategy behind Quail Hill, plus insights you won’t find here.
That said, if you love luxury real estate deep dives, you’re in the right place—keep reading for a full breakdown of this stunning Japanese-inspired estate, the fascinating story behind its $14M sale, and what it tells us about today’s luxury market.
The Estate: A Zen-Inspired Architectural Gem
Quail Hill, located at 21 Canyon Road, Ross, CA, is an 11,500-square-foot luxury estate that embodies mid-century modern meets Japanese architecture. Built in 1969, it was designed to seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor spaces, with every room surrounded by lush Japanese gardens.
What Makes Quail Hill an Architectural Masterpiece?
- Size & Privacy: Originally sitting on 20 acres atop a ridge, offering panoramic views of Ross Valley and Mount Tamalpais.
- Design & Architecture: Designed by Mitsuru Tada, a Japanese-born architect inspired by Japan’s Imperial Palace, with a 150-foot-long entrance gallery, formal entertaining spaces, and bedrooms with private terraces.
- Luxury Details: Handmade chandeliers, custom padded velvet walls, and shoji-style sliding doors add an authentic Japanese aesthetic.
- Japanese Gardens & Outdoor Spaces: Designed by Nagao Sakurai, the former Chief Custodian of the Imperial Gardens in Tokyo. The property features tranquil water gardens, koi ponds, and stone pathways, plus a Shinto shrine-inspired BBQ pavilion—because even outdoor cooking deserves luxury.
This estate was one-of-a-kind. So why did it sell for half its listing price?
The Price Drop: Why Did Quail Hill Sell for Just $14M?
At first glance, Quail Hill had all the makings of a record-breaking luxury sale. But here’s why it didn’t command its original $29M price tag:
1. It Was Originally Overpriced
- The property debuted on-market at $43M before later being listed at $29M.
- When a property is priced too high, it loses momentum—luxury buyers often hesitate to make offers if they sense an unrealistic asking price.
- Quail Hill sat on the market for 449 days, much longer than the average luxury home.
2. It Had a Niche Appeal
- While Japanese-inspired architecture is highly sought after by some, many ultra-wealthy buyers lean toward contemporary or modern estates.
- A similarly priced home in Ross sold for $28M in just 15 days—proving that demand is higher for more conventional luxury homes.
3. Market Trends and Buyer Leverage
- The buyer knew they were the only serious contender and negotiated aggressively.
- The property sold in an all-cash deal, and cash buyers expect significant discounts.
- Luxury real estate values fluctuate, and ultra-high-end homes sometimes sell for well below the asking price if they lack competition.
The History of Quail Hill: Built by a Family with Bay Area Ties
Quail Hill wasn’t just any luxury home—it was the family estate of Robert Pomeroy, a high-profile Bay Area builder.
- Robert Pomeroy was a contractor for the U.S. Navy at Pearl Harbor and had a deep appreciation for Japanese architecture.
- He and his wife, Helen Livermore Pomeroy, commissioned Quail Hill in 1969, incorporating elements of Japanese imperial design into their home.
- The Pomeroys had ties to San Francisco’s elite, with Robert serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at San Domenico School.
One could argue that Robert’s work in Pearl Harbor and his choice to build a Japanese-inspired sanctuary on his family land was a full-circle moment—a blending of cultures through architecture.
Luxury Real Estate Insights: What Buyers and Sellers Can Learn
1. Pricing Strategy is Everything
- Even the most unique properties must be priced competitively—otherwise, they risk sitting on the market.
- Quail Hill’s final sale price was $14M, showing that a property is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay.
2. Ultra-Niche Homes Require the Right Buyer
- While Japanese-inspired luxury estates are architecturally stunning, they cater to a specific audience.
- In contrast, a more traditional modern estate in Ross sold for $28M in just 15 days.
3. Luxury Buyers Should Always Make an Offer
- Just because a home is listed at $29M doesn’t mean it will sell for that.
- Quail Hill’s final price was half its original listing—proving that market conditions, time on market, and negotiation leverage matter.
Ross, CA: A Prime Destination for Luxury Buyers
Ross is one of Marin County’s most exclusive communities, known for:
✔ Secluded, ultra-luxury estates
✔ Top-tier privacy & security
✔ Proximity to San Francisco (30-minute drive)
✔ Prestigious schools, country clubs, and scenic hiking trails
For those looking to buy in Ross, Quail Hill wasn’t just a home—it was a landmark.
Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Quail Hill
Quail Hill represents a rare blend of architectural vision, history, and luxury. While its sale price was lower than expected, its impact on Marin County’s high-end real estate market remains undeniable.
📢 What This Means for Buyers & Sellers:
- For Sellers: Overpricing can kill momentum. Even extraordinary homes need strategic pricing to sell quickly.
- For Buyers: Never assume a home is out of reach—if Quail Hill sold for half its price, other luxury homes could too.
- For Architecture Enthusiasts: This estate is a testament to the enduring value of great design—and why historic homes matter in today’s market.
Watch the Full Video Tour on YouTube!
If you found this breakdown fascinating, you’ll love the full in-depth video tour where I discuss:
✔ The hidden architectural details of Quail Hill
✔ How the real estate market shaped this sale
✔ Insights from other ultra-luxury sales in Marin County
🎥 Watch the full episode here:
👉 What Makes This $2M ROCKRIDGE Home So SPECIAL? 👈
Let’s Talk Luxury Real Estate
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Until next time, peace, love, and happy house hunting. ✌🏽🏡