In the realm of grandeur and opulence, the world’s largest houses stand as majestic testaments to excess. While some individuals aim to turn their homes into showcases for cherished possessions, and others seek the perfect space for hosting lively gatherings, the biggest houses in the world effortlessly encapsulate both aspirations and more.
These architectural marvels span the globe, from a 27-story skyscraper employing 600 staff to centuries-old palaces ready to welcome distinguished dignitaries. These residences go beyond conventional expectations, featuring master bedrooms that extend to nearly 10,000 square feet and boasting amenities such as bowling alleys, 100-car garages, and multiple pools. Indeed, what defines a colossal home if not the capacity to host banquets for over 5,000 guests in a grand hall?
Pensmore, United States — 72,000 sq ft:
Imagined by multi-millionaire astrophysicist and ex-CIA agent Steve T. Huff, Pensmore stands as one of the world’s largest houses. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, this chateau-style home is constructed with reinforced concrete, designed to withstand everything from bomb blasts to natural disasters. With 14 bathrooms, 13 bedrooms, a music room, a 1,600-square-foot library, and room for a history museum, Pensmore has been under construction for over a decade, with an uncertain completion date.
Taohuayuan, China — 72,400 sq ft:
Situated on a lake island with breathtaking views and serene surroundings, Taohuayuan boasts distinctive Chinese architecture, drawing inspiration from the UNESCO heritage site, the Classical Gardens of Suzhou. This mansion, with 32 bedrooms and bathrooms, an extensive wine cellar, and a lakeside pool, offers a unique utopian experience.
Villa Leopolda, France — 80,000 sq ft:
Nestled on the French Riviera, Villa Leopolda epitomizes luxury with 19 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms spread across the main building and two guest houses. Beyond the opulent interiors, the estate features 12 pools, extensive gardens, and even a commercial greenhouse. Recognizable from Alfred Hitchcock’s film “To Catch a Thief,” this mansion perfectly captures the allure of the French Riviera.
La Reverie, United States — 84,600 sq ft:
Commissioned by Sydell Miller, founder of a popular hair product company, La Reverie is one of the largest houses in America. Located in Palm Beach, it boasts ten rooms, an extravagant library, and a basement housing a bowling alley and game room. Acquired by hedge-fund manager Steven Schonfeld in 2019, this mansion showcases grandeur with its stone exterior and Roman arches.
Modern Versailles, United States — 85,000 sq ft:
The monumental task of constructing America’s largest family home unfolds in Florida’s Orange County. Inspired by the Palace of Versailles, this mega mansion, expected to complete in 2023, promises an 8,000 sq ft master bedroom, 11 kitchens, outdoor and indoor pools, a wine cellar, two tennis courts, and a 35-car garage. The Siegels, its builders, express a mix of regret and commitment in completing the project in the documentary “Queen of Versailles.”
Witanhurst, United Kingdom — 90,000 sq ft:
The second-largest home in the UK, Witanhurst, designed by architect George Hubbard, has stood for over a century. Acquired by Russian businessman Andrey Guryev in 2008, this mansion showcases 25 bedrooms, a gym, sauna, movie theater, and billiards room. Its grandeur, however, faced challenges with reported disrepair before its restoration.
The One, United States — 105,000 sq ft:
Crafted by Nile Niami with the goal of exclusivity, The One stands as one of the world’s largest mansions. Situated in Bel Air, it features a four-lane bowling alley, a 45-seat movie theater, a full indoor/outdoor nightclub with a VIP section, and a 5,000 sq ft master bedroom. Despite legal challenges, it remains a unique spectacle.
Fair Field, United States — 110,000 sq ft:
Owned by businessman Ira Rennert, Fair Field is an Italian Renaissance-style mega mansion in the Hamptons. Spanning 110,000 sq ft across several buildings, including a 62,000 sq ft main residence, it comprises 29 bedrooms, 39 bathrooms, three pools, a bowling alley, a 164-seat theater, and a garage for 100 luxury cars.
Safra Mansion, Brazil — 117,000 sq ft:
Tucked behind security gates in Sao Paulo’s Morumbi suburb, the Safra Mansion boasts 117,000 sq ft with at least 130 rooms and multiple pools. Owned by the reclusive Safra family, this mansion remains shrouded in mystery, leaving much to the imagination.
Biltmore Estate, United States — 175,000 sq ft:
Constructed by the Vanderbilt family, the Biltmore Estate encompasses a staggering 175,000 sq ft with 250 rooms, 43 bathrooms, and a library containing 23,000 books. Drawing inspiration from French châteaux, this grand home offers public tours, allowing visitors to explore its expansive grounds and interiors.
Antilia, India — 400,000 sq ft:
Towering over Mumbai, Antilia is the 27-story residence of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani. Packed with luxurious features, including a rooftop helipad, parking for 168 cars, multiple spas and gyms, and a staff of 600 people, this skyscraper epitomizes extravagant living.
Buckingham Palace, United Kingdom — 828,800 sq ft:
Serving as the official residence of the UK’s reigning monarch, Buckingham Palace is an iconic royal residence with 775 rooms, 78 bathrooms, and 19 staterooms for dignitaries. With a rich history spanning over three centuries, the palace allows public tours of its expansive gardens and select interior areas.
Istana Nurul Iman, Brunei — 2.15 million sq ft:
The extravagant palace of the Sultan of Brunei, Istana Nurul Iman, stands as the world’s second-largest private residence. With 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a mosque, a banquet hall for 5,000 people, and vast spaces for luxury cars and horses, this palace showcases the lavish lifestyle of Brunei’s ruler.
Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara — 30.45 sq ft:
Located in Vadodara, India, Lakshmi Vilas Palace is a historic mansion and the world’s largest private residence. Spanning over 30,454,600 sq ft, this grand estate reflects the architectural prowess of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Combining Indo-Saracenic, Victorian, and other styles, the palace and its surrounding grounds offer a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage.
From the resilient Pensmore in the Ozark Mountains to the awe-inspiring Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, these colossal residences redefine luxury and scale, showcasing the diversity of architectural styles and the boundless aspirations of those who call these grand abodes home.
