La Jolla Real Estate: Then and Now

The San Diego neighborhood of La Jolla is known for a variety of historical sites. Most exist on the Rodeo Drive of La Jolla, or Prospect Avenue, named appropriately by the earliest La Jolla settlers. Frank Terrill Botsford, forefather of La Jolla, sold many early properties for $1.25 an acre, where today it's hard to find an acre of residential property under 5 million.

The La Jolla Historical Society is located directly behind Wisteria Cottage, where treasures from the past are plentiful. Earlier known as the John Cole Bookstore and previously owned by one of the most famous Scripps daughters, Eliza Virginia "Jenny" Scripps. Today, Wisteria Cottage is in the midst of transition into The Historical Society headquarters, full of historical books and novelties. The completion of this project is scheduled late 2008.

Next door is 800 Prospect Street, designed by the famous local architect Russell Forrester. This neighborhood icon was built in the 1960’s and is known for timeless contemporary architecture and quality construction. Currently, a couple units are available within the range of $625,000 to $1,695,000.00. Most offer views and all are located in downtown La Jolla prime.

The La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art was once home to Ellen Browning Scripps, the greatest benefactress of La Jolla largely responsible for making La Jolla a thriving arts and culture community.

Also, in the news for historical hotels is the charming Grande Colonial, my first La Jolla bed rest, and home to the groovy continental fare of Nine-Ten. The Colonial has recently remodeled all units behind the hotel facing the children's pool, with new accommodations already yielding considerable interest. This La Jolla hotel is swiftly becoming booked solid for peak season.

AIA architect Sebastian Mariscal has recently completed La Jolla Six, his project at the furthermost southern tip of Prospect and Ravina. This nouveau modern addition to the La Jolla streetscape boasts 3 levels, ocean views, sub garages, quality concrete and steel construction, and a superb location. La Jolla Six exhibits an interesting balance of texture with the use of Ipe wood and steel, designed for co-existing with the elements.

For more information about these La Jolla properties contact La Jolla real estate expert Jennifer Duaine at 858.437.1020, or visit www.windnseaproperties.com, to view property in and around The Jewel.