Hidden behind towering stone walls in San Diego’s Mission Hills, an extraordinary residence known simply as The Castle offers a living experience unlike any other. Built over eight years by visionary homeowner Jeffrey Jordan, and realized by Hill Construction Company, IS Architecture, and Basile Studio, this 15,000-square-foot Gothic Revival home fuses medieval grandeur with 21st-century indulgence. It’s a fantasy made real - a place where history, artistry, and revelry collide.
From the moment you step through the heavy stone gates, you're transported into a world shaped by centuries-old European influences, a bit of Game of Thrones flair, and the owner’s deeply personal story. Born in Peru, Jordan dreamed of a space that honored his heritage, celebrated artistry, and invited friends into unforgettable experiences. The result is a home that isn’t just a residence - it’s a stage for life.
A Fortress of Design and Storytelling
Inspired by Gothic architecture, the home’s soaring arches, flying buttresses, and secret passageways evoke the ambiance of a centuries-old European stronghold. Yet every medieval flourish is balanced by modern craftsmanship and luxury. The stone cladding - sourced from Portugal and carved by a fourth-generation stonemason family - grounds the home in authenticity.
Inside, brass, leather, and marble lend warmth and refinement, echoing the grit and glamour of castles past.
You’ll find antique French cobblestones underfoot, a centuries-old Portuguese wishing well in the courtyard, and even a repurposed mill wheel from Jordan’s ancestral homeland. Each element is a tribute to the past, handpicked to tell a story.
Not Just a Home - A Hidden World of Entertainment
At the heart of The Castle is a double-height ballroom-meets-nightclub, complete with a stage, a DJ booth, an organ pipe bar, and a VIP mezzanine. “The Castle ballroom feels like a modernized version of a Victorian ballroom turned nightclub, and it’s becoming a legendary party space” says Jordan. Indeed, party guests flow between moody lounges, the courtyard, and tucked-away sanctuaries - each space revealing a new surprise.
Perhaps the most spellbinding? A secret bar inspired by Peru, hidden behind a stone door. Inside, hand-painted murals, Inca motifs, and a giant Tumi (an ancient ceremonial blade) anchor the space in cultural storytelling. Open a sculptural cabinet, and you’ll find a liquor rack - then step through it to discover a private grotto spa. The transition from nightclub to tranquil retreat is as theatrical as it is luxurious.
Living History, Crafted for Today
Every square inch of this residence has a narrative. A confessional booth in the chapel, arched ceilings in the entry hall, and a stone staircase descending into mystery all echo the design of old European cities - layered, lived-in, and awe-inspiring. The architectural team meticulously researched Gothic castles, replicating stone patterns and proportions with scholarly precision.
A Mission Beyond the Walls
Jordan is also using The Castle as a platform for community and culture. With the formation of the Castle Ferreira Foundation, the space is becoming a home for the arts - hosting fundraisers, introducing musicians, and supporting LGBTQ+ causes. “I hope the parties can become a place for artists to connect with fans. Charity events are a great way to give people the chance to experience the Castle” he shares.
A Castle Built to Endure
Far more than a novelty, The Castle is a feat of architecture and storytelling - a new icon of Gothic Revival design tailored for contemporary living. It proves that a home can be a haven, a gathering place, and a work of art all at once.
Credits
Building by Hill Construction Company, Instagram: @hillconstructioncompany
Architecture by IS Architecture
Interior Design by Basile Studio, Instagram: @basile_studio
Photography by Douglas Friedman, Instagram: @douglasfriedman
Styling by Anita Sarsidi
Stone Source from Unique Stone Imports
