10 Largest Houses in the World

The world’s largest houses are more than just residences—they are marvels of architecture, luxury, and history. Spanning various styles and eras, these mansions showcase the heights of opulence, from modern skyscraper homes to historic estates. This article explores the biggest homes around the world, highlighting their unique features, locations, and the stories behind their construction. Each home reflects not just immense wealth but also the personalities and aspirations of their owners.

Xanadu 2.0

Xanadu 2.0, the home of Bill Gates, is a high-tech estate located in Medina, Washington, with a total area of 66,000 square feet. Built in 2005, the mansion is renowned for its seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and home automation. Some of its standout features include a massive library with a hidden pivoting bookcase, an indoor/outdoor pool with an underwater music system, and a 2,500-square-foot gym. The house blends into its natural surroundings using sustainable materials, making it both luxurious and environmentally conscious. Valued at around $127 million, it is a testament to Gates’ passion for technology and innovation. It is also notable for its art installations and highly advanced security systems. The estate is perfectly suited for private living with scenic views of Lake Washington. Despite its modern design, it incorporates ecological features, making it a forward-thinking residence in every aspect.

Villa Leopolda

Villa Leopolda, located on the French Riviera, covers 80,000 square feet and is one of the most iconic mansions in Europe. Originally built in 1902 by King Leopold II of Belgium for his mistress, it is renowned for its luxurious architecture and sprawling gardens. Designed by American architect Ogden Codman Jr., it has since been owned by various wealthy individuals, including Gianni and Marella Agnelli, and more recently, Lily Safra. Its 19 bedrooms, numerous dining rooms, and a private movie theater make it one of the grandest estates in the world. Its grounds cover 18 acres, with stunning Mediterranean views and 12 swimming pools, all maintained by a team of 50 gardeners. It has also been featured in several films and remains a symbol of old-world luxury and European aristocracy. 

Meadow Brook Hall

Meadow Brook Hall, located in Rochester Hills, Michigan, is a historic mansion spanning 88,000 square feet. Built in 1929 by Matilda Dodge Wilson, the widow of auto pioneer John Dodge, the estate is an excellent example of Tudor Revival architecture. With 110 rooms, it is the fourth largest historic home in the U.S. Today, the mansion serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century American luxury. The grand estate features elaborate woodwork, stained glass, and beautifully manicured gardens. It also hosts various public events and private functions, making it a prominent cultural and historical landmark. The home is particularly known for its Great Hall, which showcases intricate detailing and opulent design elements. Its status as a museum ensures that the estate continues to share its rich history with visitors, preserving its legacy as a symbol of American wealth and design.

Versailles

The Versailles mansion, located in Windermere, Florida, is a sprawling estate inspired by the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles. Covering 90,000 square feet, the home has been under construction since the early 2000s and is expected to be completed soon. It is owned by Jackie and David Siegel, who have filled it with lavish amenities, including 32 bathrooms, 15 bedrooms, multiple swimming pools, a grand ballroom, and a two-story movie theater. The architecture reflects French Baroque influences, with intricate detailing and opulent spaces designed to impress. It also features a 20-car garage and even an indoor ice-skating rink, underscoring the Siegels’ desire for excess. Once completed, it will be one of the largest and most extravagant homes in the U.S. 

Witanhurst

Witanhurst, located in London, spans 90,000 square feet, making it the second-largest private residence in the city. Built in the 1920s, this Georgian Revival mansion was designed by George Hubbard and features 65 rooms, including a grand ballroom and a 70-foot-long gallery. The property has been extensively renovated in recent years, including the addition of subterranean levels that house a swimming pool, movie theater, and gym. The identity of the mansion’s owner, Russian billionaire Andrey Guryev, remained a mystery for years, adding to the intrigue surrounding Witanhurst. The estate’s grandeur and historical significance have made it a key part of London’s architectural heritage. Its renovations continue, further increasing its size and luxurious appeal.

The One

The One, a modern mega-mansion located in Bel-Air, California, covers 100,000 square feet and was designed by architect Paul McClean. Built for film producer Nile Niami in 2013, the estate was created to redefine luxury, with its sprawling spaces and opulent design elements. It features 20 bedrooms, 30 bathrooms, and a 5,500-square-foot master suite, as well as extravagant amenities such as a private casino, a nightclub, four swimming pools, and a bowling alley. This mansion offers a 360-degree view of Los Angeles and is surrounded by landscaped gardens, making it a breathtaking display of wealth. The estate was originally priced at $500 million, making it one of the most expensive homes ever built. Despite its size, it has faced challenges with financing and sale, turning it into a cautionary tale in luxury real estate.

Oheka Castle

Oheka Castle, located in Huntington, New York, is a historic estate covering 109,000 square feet. Built in 1919 by Otto Hermann Kahn, a financier and philanthropist, this magnificent castle reflects a French Châteauesque architectural style. The estate features 127 rooms, extensive gardens, and a golf course, making it a luxurious retreat for the Kahn family. In recent years, it has been restored and now serves as a luxury hotel and event venue, attracting guests from around the world. Its historical significance and breathtaking beauty have made it a popular filming location for movies and television shows. Its grandeur, combined with modern amenities, offers visitors a taste of old-world luxury.

Fairfield Pond

Fairfield Pond, located in the Hamptons, New York, is a massive estate spanning 110,000 square feet, owned by billionaire Ira Rennert. Built in 1999, this luxurious property features 29 bedrooms, 39 bathrooms, and a host of extravagant amenities, including a bowling alley, basketball court, and a hot tub worth $150,000. The estate sits on 63 acres of oceanfront land, providing stunning views and privacy. It also has its own power plant, ensuring the property’s self-sufficiency. The garage can accommodate over 100 cars, reflecting Rennert’s penchant for luxury automobiles. Despite its luxurious features, the estate has been embroiled in controversy due to claims that Rennert financed the construction using funds from his industrial ventures.

Antilia

Antilia, located in Mumbai, India, is a 27-story skyscraper home that covers a vast 400,000 square feet, making it the largest private residence in the world. Owned by Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries and one of the richest men globally, this architectural marvel was completed in 2010. The building was designed by Perkins and Will, a Chicago-based architecture firm, and features a wide range of luxurious amenities. It includes six floors of car parking, multiple swimming pools, a private cinema, a temple, and a ballroom. The design of the residence is both earthquake-resistant and eco-friendly, with extensive green spaces spread across four terraces. The building also houses a staff of 600 to maintain its numerous facilities. Each floor of Antilia has a unique design, reflecting Ambani’s personal taste and global influence. This ultra-modern home stands as a symbol of modern luxury and innovation, towering over the Mumbai skyline.

Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman, located in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, is the largest residential palace in the world, covering a staggering 2.15 million square feet. Built in 1984 for the Sultan of Brunei, this monumental estate was designed by architect Leandro Locsin, with the interior designed by Khuan Chew. The palace features 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, and a variety of extravagant amenities, including a banquet hall that can accommodate up to 5,000 guests, a mosque for 1,500 people, and several swimming pools. It also has a garage that houses up to 110 cars, befitting the Sultan’s renowned car collection. It reflects Islamic and Malay architectural styles, blending tradition with modern luxury. The name “Istana Nurul Iman” means “Palace of the Light of Faith,” symbolizing its significance both as a residence and a governmental building. In addition to serving as the Sultan’s official residence, it is the site of official state functions and annual Islamic celebrations, making it a centerpiece of Brunei’s political and cultural life.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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