Woman transforms condemned 1888 San Diego mansion into a $4.5 million showpiece

In 1997, artist Karen Groebli purchased a condemned Victorian mansion in San Diego's Bankers Hill neighborhood for just $188,500. The 1888 Broderick–Kenny House had been left in a state of disrepair with plaster hanging from walls, broken windows and trash everywhere. Undeterred, Groebli embarked on a painstaking eight-year restoration project, transforming the historic landmark into a $4.5 million showpiece that blends Victorian charm with modern luxury.

Groebli meticulously filled the home with over 30 chandeliers, a hidden speakeasy, and reclaimed Titanic-inspired kitchen columns. She also restored the house's original water-pressure elevator and converted the third floor into a private suite with bay and city views. The restored property, now listed for $4.5 million, stands out in San Diego's current historic home market, offering buyers a unique blend of old-world elegance and contemporary comfort.