Expensive houses often signify wealth and success. Owning a luxurious property can elevate one's social status and prestige within their community or among peers. They provide a higher level of comfort and convenience, which enhances the overall living experience. Luxury real estate is often seen as a stable investment with the potential for appreciation over time. Expensive houses in desirable locations tend to hold their value or even increase, making them a sound financial asset.
The One, California, USA
- The One is a 105,000 square foot estate designed by Paul McClean, featuring extravagant amenities like five swimming pools, a 10,000 square foot sky deck, a 400-meter jogging track, a 30-car garage, a 50-seat movie theater, a four-lane bowling alley, a nightclub, a hair salon, a casino, and a 10,000-bottle wine cellar.
- Initially listed for $500 million, The One was sold at auction for $26 million, setting a new record for the highest auction sale price in the United States.
18-19 Kensington Gardens, London, UK
- 18-19 Kensington Gardens in London, UK, is a stunning mansion valued at $28 million, owned by steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal.
- Originally two separate semi-detached villas, 18-19 Kensington Gardens were merged into one palatial residence, featuring marble floors, pillars, a lavish swimming pool, and a garage that can accommodate up to 20 cars.
Zanadu 2.0, Washington, USA
- Zanadu 2.0 in Washington, USA, is the home of Microsoft founder Bill Gates, valued at $131 million.
- Spanning 66,000 square feet, Zanadu 2.0 blends luxury with cutting-edge innovation, featuring a rustic yet modern aesthetic, a grand reception hall with a 6-meter wide video wall, a 2,500 square foot gym, a 1,000 square foot dining room, and a 2,300 square foot reception hall.
Broken O Ranch, Montana, USA
- Broken O Ranch in Montana, USA, is valued at $1,132.5 million and spans 123,000 acres. It is owned by billionaire businessman and sports team owner Stan Kroenke.
- The 10,000 square foot residence offers stunning views and blends rustic charm with modern amenities. The ranch is also a working ranch with fertile land for crops and livestock, as well as trout fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Spelling Manor, Beverly Hills, California
- Spelling Manor in Beverly Hills, California, is valued at over $50 million and was built in 1991 by television mogul Aaron Spelling and his wife Candy.
- The 56,500 square foot mansion has 123 rooms and features a grand foyer with a double staircase, crystal chandeliers, and marble floors. It also includes a beauty salon, bowling alley, gift wrapping room, flower cutting room, and a state-of-the-art home theater. The master suite boasts a spacious bedroom, sitting area, private terrace, and a luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub, steam shower, and his and hers walk-in closets.
Seven the Pinnacle, Montana, USA
- Seven the Pinnacle in Montana, USA, is valued at $155 million and is owned by timber baron Tim Blix.
- It is part of the exclusive Yellowstone Club, a private golf and ski community. The estate blends rustic charm with modern luxury and features heated floors, multiple pools, state-of-the-art gyms, a wine cellar, and a private ski lift providing direct access to the Yellowstone Club slopes.
Palazzo di Amore, Beverly Hills, California
- Palazzo di Amore in Beverly Hills, California, is valued at $195 million and was built by real estate entrepreneur Jeff Green.
- The 53,000 square foot mansion has 12 bedrooms, 25 bathrooms, and 15 swimming pools. It features high ceilings, marble floors, exquisite chandeliers, and a blend of classic and contemporary styles. The outdoor spaces include beautifully landscaped gardens, terraces, and lounging areas with stunning views. The estate also includes a 50-seat theater.
Ellison Estate, California, USA
- Ellison Estate, California, USA, is valued at $200 million and is owned by Larry Ellison, founder of Oracle.
- The estate spans 23 acres and blends traditional Japanese elegance with modern luxury. The main house, inspired by Japanese architecture, features sliding shoji doors, tatami mats, and wooden beams. The estate also includes a man-made lake, meticulously landscaped gardens, a traditional tea house, a bath house with a hot tub, sauna, and steam room, a swimming pool, and two guest cottages.
Saffra Mansion, São Paulo, Brazil
- This luxurious mansion, valued at over $200 million, is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Marcos Kogan.
- It sits on a 135,000 sq ft plot and features 12 spacious bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, a private spa and fitness center, a home theater, an indoor swimming pool, and an extensive art collection. The gardens boast over 100 species of plants and trees, a private lake, and a waterfall.
One Hyde Park, London, UK
- This ultra-luxurious penthouse, valued at $29 million, occupies a prime position in the exclusive Knightsbridge neighborhood and offers breathtaking 360° views of the city.
- It features sleek lines, high-end materials, heated marble floors, marble accents in the bathrooms and kitchen, two wine cellars, bulletproof glass, iris recognition technology, ample parking and storage facilities, and climate-controlled parking for luxury cars. As part of a larger development, One Hyde Park offers exclusive amenities like a private cinema, swimming pool, squash court, gym, and a dedicated concierge team.
Villa Le Cedras, Provence Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
- This majestic estate, valued at approximately €200 million ($220 million), boasts a rich history and unparalleled beauty.
- Built in 1870, it was originally commissioned by King Leopold II of Belgium and features magnificent cedar trees lining its grounds.
Villa Le Cedras, French Riviera
- Villa Le Cedras is a luxurious estate located in the French Riviera, valued at $750 million.
- Its architecture blends classical and Mediterranean styles, featuring elegant facades, grand columns, and intricate detailing. The estate boasts an expansive botanical garden spanning over 35 acres, home to 15,000 plants, including rare and exotic species. The interiors are equally breathtaking, with luxury rooms reflecting its royal heritage, including a ballroom with crystal chandeliers, ornate moldings, and marble floors.
Four Fairfield Pond, Sagaponack, Long Island, USA
- Four Fairfield Pond is a palatial estate nestled in Sagaponack, Long Island, USA, valued at $248 million.
- It spans an impressive 110,000 square feet of living space, with the main house alone covering 64,000 square feet. The architectural design blends classic and contemporary styles, featuring grand facades, elegant columns, and expansive windows offering breathtaking views. The estate features 29 bedrooms and 39 bathrooms, each designed with attention to detail and adorned with high-end materials. It also boasts luxurious amenities like a basketball court, bowling alley, squash courts, tennis courts, and three swimming pools.
The Odeon Tower Penthouse, Monte Carlo, Monaco
- The Odeon Tower Penthouse in Monte Carlo, Monaco, is a lavish residence valued at $387 million.
- This five-story haven boasts 3,500 square meters of space and offers an ultra-exclusive lifestyle. It features a private spa, fitness center, pool, and sauna. Every detail has been meticulously crafted to provide the ultimate in luxury living, from the sleek modern design to the exquisite finishes and furnishings. The penthouse offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and surrounding landscape.
Le Palais Bulles, France
- Le Palais Bulles in France is a unique architectural wonder with a bubble-like shape.
- The mansion's design provides a unique way of experiencing the surrounding landscape. It features three swimming pools, lush gardens, and a 500-seat amphitheater. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with each room carefully designed to maximize views and natural light. The use of circular windows and doors adds to the futuristic feel, while the lavish furnishings and décor showcase the owner's exquisite taste.
24 Middle Gap Road, Hong Kong
- This luxurious mansion, valued at $447 million, is the most expensive house in Hong Kong.
- It boasts 13,000 square feet of living space, elegant design with marble accents, expansive windows, and breathtaking city views. The property also features a stunning infinity pool, a rooftop garden, and six bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom and private balcony.
Wittenhurst, London
- This legendary mansion, valued at $450 million, is a masterpiece of Georgian Revival architecture built between 1913 and 1920.
- It features 25 bedrooms, a 70-foot long ballroom, a glass rotunda, and 990,000 square feet of living space. Wittenhurst has hosted lavish parties and high society events, and its grandeur and beauty have inspired countless architects and designers.
Villa Leopolda, France
- This majestic gem, valued at $750 million, is nestled between Monaco and Nice.
- Originally built on land owned by King Leopold II of Belgium, it served as a military hospital during World War I before being transformed into an opulent residence in the 1920s. The Villa features 11 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, 12 swimming pools, a helipad, a commercial greenhouse, and meticulously manicured gardens. Its design is inspired by the Italian Renaissance and features a mix of French and Italian architectural styles.
Antilia, Mumbai
- This majestic skyscraper, valued at $1 billion, is owned by Mukesh Ambani, India's richest person.
- It is a 400,000 square foot marvel designed to withstand an earthquake of magnitude 8 on the Richter scale. The 27 floors feature six floors dedicated to parking, accommodating 168 cars.
Antilia, Mumbai (continued)
- The remaining floors of Antilia, the most expensive house in the world, feature luxurious amenities such as a health spa, ice cream room, temple, 50-seat movie theater, salon, and ballroom.
- The building's design is inspired by the lotus and sun, with intricate details crafted from crystals, marble, and mother of pearl.
- Antilia has three helipads, though not yet operational, and nine high-speed elevators, offering breathtaking views of the city.
Buckingham Palace, London
- Buckingham Palace, located in London, is valued at $1.3 billion and serves as the official residence of the UK's monarchs.
- The palace has approximately 775 rooms, including 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 92 offices, 19 state rooms, and 78 bathrooms.
- Buckingham Palace features a swimming pool and other luxury amenities, and its 828,000 square feet are spread across four floors.
- The palace's 40-acre garden, known as the Buckingham Palace Garden, is a tranquil oasis in the heart of London.
- Buckingham Palace has hosted numerous historic events, state visits, and ceremonial occasions, including the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony.