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The Biggest Houses In The World: Going Big And Going Home

Dream big, build bigger.

by Michael Bradley Updated on November 7, 2023

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Some people want their home to serve as a place for collecting treasured items. Others desire the ultimate space to host parties and enjoy life to the fullest. But for the biggest houses in the world, limits do not exist. They can easily do both, along with so much more.

Whether it’s a 27-story skyscraper with 600 people on staff or a centuries-old palace ready to host the most prestigious dignitaries, the largest houses in the world have everything it takes to impress.

Master bedrooms stretch to nearly 10,000 sq ft, while bowling alleys, 100-car garages, and multiple pools are just the tip of the iceberg. And really, what is a big home if you can’t invite over 5,000 people to enjoy your banquet hall?

Covering nearly every corner of the globe, the world’s biggest houses are ready for anything you can throw at them. With plenty of room left over.

The 14 biggest houses in the world

14. pensmore, united states — 72,000 sq ft.

Dreamed by multi-millionaire astrophysicist and ex-CIA agent Steve T. Huff, Pensmore is one of the biggest houses in the world—and perhaps one of the sturdiest.

The reinforced-concrete, chateau-style home is located in the Ozark Mountains and is meant to be resistant to everything from bomb blasts to natural disasters. 

There are 14 bathrooms, 13 bedrooms, a music room and a 1,600 square-foot library, and space for a history museum. Pensmore has been under construction on and off for over a decade… and counting. There’s no telling when or if it will ever be completed .

13. Taohuayuan, China — 72,400 sq ft

Some of the world’s biggest houses are perfectly situated for large parties and energetic fun. This one, on the other hand, is built on a lake island with stunning views and peaceful surroundings.

This huge mansion rivals some of the biggest houses in America, but features distinctly Chinese architecture, even going as far as using the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, a UNESCO heritage site, as inspiration . It’s no wonder they chose a name that translates to utopia.

Taohuayuan features 32 bedrooms and bathrooms, an enormous wine cellar, and a lakeside pool.

12. Villa Leopolda, France — 80,000 sq ft

The French Riviera is known as a stunningly beautiful location with jaw-dropping views and gorgeous water. It’s also known as a playground for the wealthy, and Villa Leopolda might be the perfect manifestation of that thought.

With 19 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms spread across the main building and two guest houses, there is more than enough space for all of the fun you can imagine.

If the interior doesn’t do it for you, step outside the most expensive house on the French Riviera, and dip in one of its 12 pools, walk through the extensive gardens, or check out the commercial greenhouse.

If the luxury mansion looks familiar, that’s because it appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s movie To Catch a Thief .

11. La Reverie, United States — 84,600 sq ft

What happens when you start one of the most popular hair product companies? You build huge mansions with everything you want.

Sydell Miller hired architect Jeffery Smith to design one of the biggest houses in the US in an ideal Palm Beach location, with almost 350 feet of oceanfront coastline . It exchanged hands in 2019, purchased by hedge-fund manager Steven Schonfeld.

As one of the biggest houses in America, it has ten rooms, an opulent library, and a basement with a bowling alley and game room. The exterior is covered in stone and features large Roman arches over the window and loggia openings.

10. Modern Versailles, United States — 85,000 sq ft

As you can imagine, constructing America’s largest family home is a monumental task. Situated in Florida’s exclusive Orange County, this mega mansion is inspired by the Palace of Versailles in France. It began construction in 2004 and is expected to complete in 2023.

What is the payoff for such a long wait? How about an 8,000 sq ft master bedroom, 11 kitchens, outdoor and indoor pools, a wine cellar, two tennis courts, and a 35-car garage? Two elevators are on the luxury property, one of which is reported to feature extensive use of gold.

In the documentary Queen of Versailles , the Siegels famously said, “We’re sorry we ever started. But we’re $50 million into it, so it really needs to get done.”

9. Witanhurst, United Kingdom — 90,000 sq ft

The second-largest home in the United Kingdom, Witanhurst, was designed by architect George Hubbard and built over a century ago. (The original estate was named Parkfield in 1774).

Before the 2008 sale to Russian businessman Andrey Guryev, it was reported to be in a state of disrepair, showing how the world’s biggest houses are subject to the same laws of time as other homes.

Now, it is ready again to host guests in its 25 bedrooms on three floors, gym, sauna, movie theater, and billiards room. Hopefully, its relatively new owner will keep up with the maintenance better than the previous ones.

8. The One, United States — 105,000 sq ft

When Nile Niami set out to create one of the biggest mansions in the world, his goal was to create something that only a select few people can afford. The type of people who want something no one else has.

And after many legal challenges, the feat has been accomplished. But due to Bel Air’s latest zoning regulations, it’s unlikely to be repeated in the area ever again.

Featuring a four-lane bowling alley, a 45-seat movie theater, and a full indoor/outdoor nightclub with a VIP section, The One is ready to host extravagant parties, all without leaving the comfort of your home.

This luxury mansion also has a 5,000 sq ft master bedroom to stretch out in, and a garage with enough space to hold a museum’s worth of expensive cars .

7. Fair Field, United States — 110,000 sq ft

Owned by businessman Ira Rennert, Fair Field is a marvelous Italian Renaissance-style mega mansion located in the Hamptons. The main residence is 62,000 square feet, but the entire complex has several buildings that amount to 110,000 square feet. To put that into perspective, it is twice the size of the White House.

As one of the biggest private homes in America, it comprises 29 bedrooms, 39 bathrooms, three pools, a bowling alley, a 164-seat theater, and a garage for 100 luxury cars. The luxury estate even has its own power plant.

It’s also a mega-mansion mired in controversy that inspired a novel—James Brady’s The House That Ate the Hamptons .

6. Safra Mansion, Brazil — 117,000 sq ft

Located in the prestigious Morumbi suburb of Sao Paulo, Brazil, the Safra Mansion is tucked behind a large set of security gates. Unfortunately, for those curious about the details of this huge mansion, not much is publicly available.

We do know it boasts a massive 117,000 sq ft of space with at least 130 rooms and multiple pools.

Perhaps one day, the reclusive Safra family, who also owns one of the world’s most expensive houses , will open the doors to unveil what’s hidden inside one of the largest houses in the world. But until then, you’ll have to let your imagination run wild.

5. Biltmore Estate, United States — 175,000 sq ft

Built by the well-known Vanderbilt family, the Biltmore Estate has it all. There are an incredible 250 rooms and 43 bathrooms. And if you’re a big reader, then the library with 23,000 books might make you drool even more than the three kitchens.

The design of the biggest home in America takes inspiration from French châteaux (castles), complete with a sprawling lawn and multiple gardens. With that much greenery, the two dedicated water sources are a vital piece of the puzzle.

Want to see what the inside of this luxury house looks like? Good news. Public tours of the massive estate are available, along with lodging for guests on the same property.

4. Antilia, India — 400,000 sq ft

Some people with deep pockets choose to go far away from crowds and hit the open countryside with sprawling estates. But Indian Billionaire Mukesh Ambani is not one of those people.

His 27-story skyscraper towers over the neighboring buildings and is filled with the epitome of luxurious touches. The luxury home includes a rooftop helipad with space for three helicopters, enough parking for 168 of his favorite rides (including some of the world’s most expensive cars ), and several guest apartments.

But what billionaire’s luxury home would be complete without an indoor swimming pool, a theater, and multiple spas and gyms? Not this one. Oh yeah, it also has a staff of 600 people to handle operations.

3. Buckingham Palace, United Kingdom — 828,800 sq ft

As home to the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, Buckingham Palace is certainly one of the most recognizable royal residences in the world. It has been a staple of global culture and politics for over three centuries. It also has a literal connection to the Houses of Parliament through an underground tunnel.

The most expensive house in the world , Buckingham Palace has 19 staterooms available to host any dignitary, while the 775 rooms and 78 bathrooms ensure that no one feels cramped.

Unlike most on this list of the biggest houses in the world, public tours of the 48-acre Buckingham Palace Gardens and parts of the interior are available. Just make sure to book your tickets well in advance.

2. Istana Nurul Iman, Brunei — 2.15 million sq ft

When you’re expecting thousands of your closest friends to come over for a party, finding the space might be challenging. Unless you’re the Sultan of Brunei .

His extravagant palace—Istana Nurul Iman (“ Light of Faith Palace “)—houses 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a mosque with a 1,500-person capacity, and of course, a banquet hall equipped for 5,000 people. The royal garage is downright massive with spaces for all the world’s most expensive cars , while the air-conditioned stable can hold over 200 horses.

Sitting at over 2 million square feet, Istana Nurul Iman is the world’s second largest private residence —and a jaw-dropping feat of architecture designed by Leandro V. Locsin.

1. Lakshmi Vilas Palace, Vadodara — 30.45 sq ft

Located in Vadodara, India, The Lakshmi Vilas Palace is a historic mansion and the world’s largest private residence. Sprawling over 30,454,600 sq ft, the behemoth estate is four times the size of Buckingham Palace. It was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of the Gaekwad dynasty, one of the prominent princely states of India, during the late 19th century. 

Lakshmi Vilas Palace is known for its opulent architecture, expansive grounds, and overall grandeur. Showcasing a blend of Indo-Saracenic, Victorian, and other structural styles, the main palace building reflects the lavish lifestyle and artistic indulgence of the Gaekwad royal family. 

The palace complex also includes two huge courtyards dotted with trees and fountains. The meticulously manicured gardens are surrounded by golf courses, cricket grounds, and indoor tennis courts. The palace zoo and railway tracks are designed to transport young royals and keep them entertained. 

Today, parts of the palace are open to the public, allowing visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and history of Vadodara.

14 biggest houses in the world: conclusion

The 14 biggest houses in the world are:

• Lakshmi Vilas Palace: 30.45 million sq ft
• Istana Nurul Iman: 2.15 million sq ft
• Buckingham Palace: 828,800 sq ft
• Antilia: 400,000 sq ft
• Biltmore Estate: 175,000 sq ft
• Safra Mansion: 117,000 sq ft
• Fair Field: 110,000 sq ft
• The One: 105,000 sq ft
• Witanhurst: 90,000 sq ft
• Modern Versailles: 85,000 sq ft
• La Reverie: 84,600 sq ft
• Villa Leopolda: 80,000 sq ft
• Taohuayuan: 72,400 sq ft
• Pensmore: 72,000 sq ft

Totaling more than 4 million square feet, the 11 largest houses in the world can make your wildest dreams come true. Whether it’s the biggest houses in America or the luxury mansions where prominent political figures reside, there’s certainly no shortage of space.

The only thing in short supply is the ability to get from one side of the house to the other without getting lost or breaking a sweat. But thankfully, a member of the staff is likely nearby to help out.

Frequently asked questions about the biggest houses in the world

The biggest house in the world is the Istana Nurul Iman , with a massive 2.15 million sq ft (200,000 m2). It is located in Brunei and serves as the residence of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah. This huge mansion has a 5,000-person banquet hall.

The top 10 biggest houses in the world are Lakshmi Vilas Palace , Istana Nurul Iman , Buckingham Palace , Antilia , Biltmore Estate , Safra Mansion , Fair Field , The One Witanhurst , and Modern Versailles . They are situated all over the world, and you can read the full details in our list of the biggest houses in the world .

If you exclude Lakshmi Vilas Palace , Istana Nurul Iman , and Buckingham Palace because they are homes to government officials, the largest private home in the world is Antilia , a 400,000 sq ft (37,000 m2) skyscraper in Mumbai, India, owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani.

The biggest houses in the world are owned by many influential and famous people. The Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, resides in the world’s second largest house, the Istana Nurul Iman with 2.15 million sq ft. Buckingham Palace , a residence for the reigning Monarch of the UK, is the second-largest house with 828,800 sq ft. The famous Jacqueline and David Siegel own one of the biggest houses in the world (When and if completed, that is), the 85,000 sq ft Modern Versailles , as featured in the documentary Queen of Versailles.

About the author

Michael Bradley

Motoring editor.

You could say that Michael lives two lives. On one hand, you’ll find him dressed to the nines and taking the city by storm, showing his love for men’s fashion . On the other hand, he lives an adventurous outdoor lifestyle and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. Somewhere in the middle is his undying love for all things automotive . Whether it’s checking out the latest and greatest models or turning a wrench on his classic cars, there’s always a bit of oil flowing through his brain.

Learn more about Michael Bradley

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The 13 Biggest Houses in the World—and Their Lavish Design History

Millions of square feet of design decadence.

These types of houses—if you can even call them that—put your run-of-the-mill McMansions to shame. Do they all seem a bit like overkill for a single family? Sure. Are a lot of them owned by royalty? Obviously. Are they the perfect backdrops for your fantasy of running down a lavish hall in slow motion like in every period piece you've ever seen? Oh, yes. Or if you've recently watched Saltburn , maybe you have a different idea of what to do in a gigantic estate. To each their own, we say.

Whatever reason you're wanting to learn more about the world's biggest homes—to make yourself jealous or to daydream—we've got you covered. We found palaces and castles all over the globe in a range of design styles . Read on to learn about the design history of the biggest houses in the world (in ascending order, naturally), and find out just how grand they really are.

Location: London, England

Built: 1913 to 1920

Architect: George Hubbard

Square footage: 90,000 square feet

The Georgian Revival –style Witanhurst mansion in Highgate is London's largest residential home, with 25 bedrooms, a 70-foot-long swimming pool, two basements, a sauna, a gym, and many more amenities. It sold for 50 million pounds in late 2008, a transaction that inspired much speculation about its new owners. The late Queen Elizabeth is said to have attended parties here in the 1950s.

Location: Los Angeles

Built: 2014 to 2021

Architect: Paul McClean

Square footage: 105,000 square feet

Floating above the city, this Bel-Air mansion—which took its original owner, movie producer slash real-estate developer Nile Niami, 10 years to build—gives panoramic views of the skyline and glistening Pacific Ocean. It's reminiscent of the kind of home Tony Stark from The Avengers would live in, equipped with every amenity imaginable: its own nightclub, a full-service salon and spa, a sky deck, an outdoor running track, and a 40-seat theater, to name a few. It sold for $126 million in 2022 to the founder and CEO of the fast-fashion company Fashion Nova, Richard Saghian.

Oheka Castle

Location: Huntington, New York

Built: 1914 to 1919

Architect: William Adams Delano

Square footage: 109,000 square feet

The second-largest private residence in the United States, this French-style chateau in upstate New York is now a hotel and event space decorated with beautiful plaster moldings, ornate chandeliers, and luxurious furnishings. It was constructed more than a century ago for the financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn. After he died in 1934, it served as a military school for 50 years before being restored to its former glory. Many notable TV and movie productions have filmed here, including Succession .

Safra Mansion

Location: Sao Paulo, Brazil

Built: 1990s

Architect: Unknown

Square footage: 117,000 square feet

The South American private residence of the Safra family, a fairly private bunch who made their billions in the banking industry, has 130 rooms , indoor and outdoor pools, a tennis court, and a helipad. Little is publicly known about the interiors, but we can assume they're ultra luxurious.

Biltmore Estate

Location: Asheville, North Carolina

Built: 1888 to 1895

Architect: Richard Morris Hunt

Square footage: 175,000 square feet

Built by railroad baron George Vanderbilt , Biltmore House is the biggest home in the United States, with 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and a two-story library. In 1930, George Vanderbilt's daughter Cornelia opened the home to the public for tours, and in 2001, The Inn on Biltmore Estate debuted, allowing design buffs to stay on the grounds.

Want to learn more? Check out our virtual tour of this American architectural landmark.

Location: Mumbai, India

Built: 2006 to 2011

Architect: Perkins & Will (Chicago) and Hirsch Bedner Associates (Los Angeles)

Square footage: 400,000 square feet

Only six people live in this 27-story skyscraper: Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani and his family. It cost $2 billion to construct, has nine high-speed elevators, and can hold 168 cars. There's a helipad, a ballroom, multiple swimming pools, and even an "ice room" filled with man-made snow. It may be one of the world's biggest private homes, but it's despised by many in the Indian capital, particularly because it looms over an overcrowded slum.

Buckingham Palace

Built: Begun in 1705, with significant modifications and additions in the mid-1800s and late 1800s to early 1900s

Architects: William Winde, John Nash, Edward Blore, Aston Webb

Square footage: 828,820 square feet

Since 1837, when George III bought it for his wife, Queen Charlotte (yes, just like in Bridgerton !), this enormous estate has been one of the British royal family's official residences , the King's official London residence, and the headquarters for many official events and administrative offices. There are 775 rooms in total in the palace, and more than 50,000 people visit the property every year. The palace's interiors are filled with ornate decorations, priceless works of art (including Vermeers, Rembrandts, and more), and so much history. The state rooms are open to visitors each summer.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

Location: Jodhpur, India

Built: 1928 to 1943

Architect: Henry Lanchester

Square footage: 1 million square feet

This residential palace slash luxury hotel in Rajasthan is built entirely of golden-hued sandstone. The bills on the estate simply became too much for the original owner, Maharaja Umaid Singh, who built it in part to provide much-needed jobs in the region. Luckily, his grandson struck a deal with the Taj Palace hotel group to allow the Jodhpur royal family to continue living in part of the palace and turn another part into a hotel. The luxury lodgings are outfitted with original Art Deco furniture, murals, intricate wall and ceiling carvings, and gorgeously decorated rooms. There's also a museum on site that you can visit.

Quirinal Palace

Location: Rome, Italy

Built: Mid-to-late 1500s to mid-1700s

Architect: Many, including Ottaviano Mascarino, Flaminio Ponzio, Carlo Maderno, Alessandro Specchi, Ferdinando Fuga, Raffaele Stern

Square footage: 1.2 million square feet

Home to the President of the Republic of Italy and built over several centuries, this Renaissance and Baroque palace is full of history, art, and culture that you can take in when you visit Rome and the surrounding area. Although it has evolved through many additions and changes to become what we see today, the interior and exterior have essentially remained untouched since 1946 .

Apostolic Palace

Location: Vatican City

Built: Began in the late 1400s

Architect: Many

Square footage: 1,743,753 square feet

Also known as the Papal Palace or Vatican Palace, this official residence of the reigning pope is also home to the famous Sistene Chapel with its frescoes by Michelangelo. Similar to Buckingham Palace or the White House, it also houses several administrative offices as well as the Vatican Library, other papal apartments, and public and private chapels. You can visit the palace , chapel, and several museums and gardens.

Istana Nurul Iman

Location: Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Built: Early 1980s

Architect: Leandro Locsin

Square footage: 2,152,782 square feet

The tiny island nation of Brunei, set between Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, is where you'll find the third biggest house in the world. The home belongs to the Sultan of Brunei, and its name translates as "Palace of the Light of Faith." It apparently has 1,788 bedrooms, five swimming pools, and an air-conditioned stable that can hold as many as 200 horses.

Location: Ankara, Turkey

Built: 2011 to 2014

Square footage: 3.1 million square feet

Nicknamed the White Palace, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan's home is four times the size of Versailles. The residence is said to be a mishmash of architectural styles, borrowing some elements from other Ottoman palaces. It has more than 1,000 rooms decorated in marble, green granite, and silk wallpapers and is said to have cost at least $615 million to build.

Lakshmi Vilas Palace

Location: Vadodara, India

Built: 1890

Architect: Major Charles Mant

Square footage: Roughly 30,492,000 square feet

This residential palace is a gorgeous example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, which incorporates Mughal and Hindu motifs. Still home to the Vadodara’s royal family , it's lavishly decorated with beautiful mosaics and art pieces. The estate is four times larger than that of Buckingham Palace and sits on park-like grounds with a golf course, museum, cricket stadium, and indoor tennis and badminton courts.

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Unveiling The Biggest House in the World: Top 7 Biggest Houses

Did you know that the average home size in America is about 2,400 square feet, which has gone up since the 1973 average of 1,500 feet? These figures show that people nowadays like to live large, and having a bigger home is one of those luxuries. 

Welcome to a world of opulence and grandeur, where architectural marvels reach unprecedented heights. In this captivating exploration, we embark on a journey to discover the largest, most extravagant residences ever constructed.

From sprawling estates that defy imagination to palatial mansions that redefine luxury, we unveil the crème de la crème of residential splendor.

Get ready to be awestruck as we reveal the wonders that hold the title of “the biggest house in the world.” Join us as we delve into these extraordinary abodes, uncovering their fascinating stories and marveling at the sheer scale of their magnificence.

From the grandest mansions in the United States to awe-inspiring residences across the globe, prepare to be immersed in a realm where size truly matters.

Are you ready to witness the epitome of architectural extravagance? Let’s embark on this grand tour of the world’s biggest houses and delve into the realm of ultimate luxury and magnificence.

Everyone loves a lovely big home, but you might be wondering who has the biggest house in the world. If you don’t know, read below and find out more!

Villa LeopoldA – French Riviera

Everybody loves the French Riviera with its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant lifestyle; it is a place that resonates with the imagination. On the Riviera, you will find one of the biggest houses in the world with the 80,000-square-foot mansion called Villa Leopolda.

The home first belonged to King Leopold the 2nd of Belgium, who constructed this mansion as a gift for his mistress, Blanche Zelia. Ownership has changed hands a few times but now is owned by Brazilian billionaire Lilly Safra. 

This villa is probably one of the most expensive homes in Europe and is valued at around 500 million. It has one of the best beach fronts on the whole continent.

Witanhurst – London

This mega-mansion, nestled comfortably in London Uk has 90,000 square feet for the owner to play around with. Built between 1913 and 1920, the property became dilapidated over the years until a Russian billionaire breathed new life into the property in 2008.

The estate has around 65 rooms in total. It includes 25 bathrooms, a dining room, a snooker room, a gym, a sauna, and a movie theatre. Second, only to Buckingham Palace in terms of size in London. The property was reportedly bought for 65 million dollars before the renovations. What it’s worth now is anybody’s guess.

The One, Bel Air – California

This 20-bedroom, 30-bathroom home has the acclaim of being the biggest home in America, with a total of 74,000 square feet. The house was imagined and designed by real estate developer Nile Niami. The one also was the most expensive home built in America, costing 500 million hard-earned dollars.

Featuring a 5,000-square-foot master bedroom, Imax-style theatre, four swimming pools of different sizes, a 30-car garage, and an 8500-square-foot nightclub, the one was built to be more of a party house. Currently on the market, this house has yet to find its forever owner.

La Reverie – Palm Beach Florida

Perfectly situated in Palm Beach, Florida, where all the rich and famous live and with the acclaimed title of the biggest house in the neighborhood, this 84 626 square foot mansion was built by the owner of Matrix Essentials, Sydell Miller.

Purchased for a modest 4,5 million in 1995, this home has the title of being the biggest in Palm Beach and the 7th biggest home in the world. Not only a living home but many concerts and events have been held here over the years, so you not, it must be pretty massive.

Taohuayuan – Suzhou China

China isn’t a destination that comes to mind when you think of the biggest house in the world, but in Suzhou, China, you will find 72 400 square feet of pure luxury. Built by a private property development company, Sunac, on a private island over the span of 3 years.

Situated on the banks of Dushu Lake, this home has 32 bedrooms and bathrooms, a wine cellar, Lavish gardens, and a very fancy ornamental pond that can hold a wide number of Khoi or expensive fishes.

The surrounding gardens and landscapes were modeled on Suzhou’s classical gardens, a world heritage site. In 2016, the house was put up for sale at a whopping asking price of 154 million dollars, making it China’s most expensive home.

Safra Mansion – Sao Paulo, Brazil

Located in the metropolis of South America, Sao Paulo, with some of the most expensive property prices in the region, you know a 117,000-square-foot mansion will be worth a pretty penny. The Safra family, who owns it, are wealthy private bankers who moved to Brazil for the relative peace that comes with the country. The family is known to have several super expensive homes around the world.

The house has 130 rooms and indoor and outdoor pools, and what’s inside could be anybody’s guess as the family is super private. Resembling villa Leopold in France, which the family used to own, the actual value of the mansion is unknown but is said to be worth a couple of hundreds of millions.

Istana Nurul Iman Palace Brunei – Biggest House In The World

The world’s biggest house belongs to none other than the Sultan of Brunei, which not many people reading this would even have heard of. The Sultan is one of the wealthiest monarchs in the world, owning to Brunei’s richness in natural resources. 

The house, or should we say palace, is a real feat of engineering and covers a truly grand area of 2.15 million square feet. In this much square footage, you will find 1788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a 110-car garage, banquet halls, horse stables, swimming pools, and even a private mosque that can fit 1500 people. 

Designed and built in 1984 since then, no one has been able to match the palace in size and grandeur. The actual value of the palace is relatively unknown, but some reports say the house price can rise to a grand total of 1.4 billion dollars.

Read also: A Billion-Dollar Underwater Hotel | $292,000 Per Night.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Biggest House in the World

Who is the owner of the biggest house in the world .

The owner of the biggest house in the world is the Sultan of Brunei, whose palace is called Istana Nurul Iman. The Sultan is one of the wealthiest monarchs globally, thanks to Brunei’s rich natural resources.

Where is the biggest house in India located?

The biggest house in India is known as Antilia and is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is owned by Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries.

Which is the most expensive and biggest house in the world?

The most expensive and biggest house in the world is subject to change over time as new properties are built and prices fluctuate. However, historically, some notable examples include properties like Buckingham Palace in the United Kingdom and the Antilia in India.

What are the top five biggest houses in the world?

The top five biggest houses in the world may vary depending on different sources and criteria. However, some well-known massive residences include Istana Nurul Iman in Brunei, Antilia in India, Witanhurst in England, Villa Leopold in France, and The One in Bel Air, California.

Who owns Witanhurst, England – one of the biggest houses in the world?

Witanhurst, located in London, England, is one of the biggest houses in the world. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the owner of Witanhurst is not specified.

Is Antilia one of the biggest houses in the world?

Yes, Antilia is considered one of the biggest houses in the world. Owned by Mukesh Ambani, it is located in Mumbai, India, and is known for its unique and extravagant design.

Which country has the biggest house in the world?

As per some resources, the biggest house in the world, Istana Nurul Iman, is located in Brunei.

Where is Villa Firenze-one of the biggest house in the world-situated?

Villa Firenze, one of the biggest houses in the world, is situated in Beverly Hills, California, USA.

Who designed the Palazzo di Amore, USA?

Palazzo di Amore in the USA was designed by architect Bob Ray Offenhauser.

Who owns the Manor- one of the biggest house in the world- in the USA?

The Manor, one of the biggest houses in the world, is located in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles, California, USA. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the owner of The Manor is not specified.

What is the square footage of the biggest house in the world?

The biggest house in the world boasts impressive square footage. This architectural marvel indeed dominates the landscape with a total area of 2.15 million square feet.

How many rooms does the biggest house in the world have?

The biggest house in the world is not only vast in size but also abundant in rooms. Inside its majestic walls, you will find a staggering 1,788 rooms, providing ample space for various purposes and luxurious amenities.

Is the biggest house in the world open to the public?

Unfortunately, the biggest house in the world is not open to the general public. It serves as a private residence belonging to the esteemed Sultan of Brunei and remains inaccessible to visitors.

How much did it cost to build the biggest house in the world?

While an exact figure may not be available, reports suggest that the total expenses for this remarkable residence could reach a staggering $1.4 billion, reflecting the immense scale and luxury involved.

Are there any unique features in the biggest house in the world?

From lavish banquet halls and swimming pools to a private mosque accommodating 1500 people, this residence is replete with remarkable amenities that redefine luxury living.

Read also: Ira Reannert House- Built on Fair Field Site Worth US$249 Million .

Lavish Homes Around The World

As our captivating journey through the realm of architectural splendor draws to a close, we are left in absolute awe of the largest mansions and houses that grace our planet. From the grandeur of the world’s largest mansion to the allure of the biggest houses in the United States, we have explored a mesmerizing array of breathtaking residences that push the boundaries of opulence and redefine luxury.

But amidst this spectacle, one question lingers in our minds: Who is the fortunate owner of the crown jewel among them all—the biggest house in the world? While we may not have a definitive answer, the mere existence of this magnificent abode fuels our imagination and leaves us yearning for a glimpse inside its extravagant halls. It stands as a testament to human achievement and architectural prowess, captivating our senses and symbolizing the epitome of luxury and innovation.

From the sun-soaked shores of Florida to the farthest corners of the globe, these remarkable houses have left an indelible mark on the world of real estate. Their opulence and grandeur have solidified their place among the most prestigious and expensive houses ever built, representing the pinnacle of extraordinary living spaces.

While we may never personally experience the splendor of these residences, their mere presence adds an enchanting touch of magic to our world. They serve as a testament to the boundless creativity, ambition, and relentless pursuit of creating exceptional living environments. In the end, they remind us that human ingenuity knows no bounds, and the pursuit of architectural excellence continues to shape our world in remarkable ways.

Are you looking for more information on the world’s most luxurious items? Head on over to our lifestyle page  and find all the luxury you could possibly ever need!

Featured image source: Celebritydailyroutine.com

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Biltmore Estate: Everything to Know About America’s Largest Home

By Claudia Williams

All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When you first lay eyes on the Biltmore Estate, you almost can’t fathom it’s a real place. The home seems more like something out of the pages of a fairytale or Disney movie. But the grandiose residence isn’t a work of fiction or dreams. It’s a real house nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina.

With over 175,000 square feet of architecture and history, there’s no shortage of stories to tell about this legendary dwelling built by the Vanderbilt family. Keep reading as we share a glimpse into the nation’s largest privately owned residence.

A rich history

Another view of the French Renaissance Revival–style chateau

It was during the Gilded Age, in 1888, that George Washington Vanderbilt, the grandson of famed industrialist Cornelius Vanderbilt, first visited Asheville. The beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains captivated George and, shortly thereafter, he began purchasing parcels of farmland for what would one day become Biltmore Estate.

Now equipped with a vision and the land, George tasked famed American architect Richard Morris Hunt to design and build the home. At the time, Hunt was most known for his work on the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Statue of Liberty.

Biltmore wasn’t Hunt’s first project with the Vanderbilt family. They started collaborating in 1878, when Hunt designed two summer homes for the family— The Breakers and Marble House, both in Newport, Rhode Island. George Vanderbilt grew up knowing Hunt as their “family architect,” according to Biltmore.com .

Once Hunt was on board, Vanderbilt went on to hire Frederick Law Olmsted, the founder of American landscape architecture, to design the gardens and surrounding grounds. It’s Olmsted who New Yorkers can thank for Central Park, Prospect Park, and Niagara Falls State Park.

According to a timeline on Biltmore.com, the construction of Biltmore began one year later in 1889 and, to this day, is the largest residential architecture undertaking in the nation. It took six years and an entire community of craftsmen to build the 250-room French Renaissance château, which boasts 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. Vanderbilt finally opened the doors to his grand country estate in 1895 on Christmas Eve.

Vanderbilt named his estate “Biltmore” for Bildt, the Dutch town of his ancestry, and the Old English word “more” meaning open, rolling land.

Throughout the next 30 or so years, Biltmore became home to new generations of Vanderbilts. George and his wife, Edith Vanderbilt (formerly Stuyvesant Dresser) welcomed their only child, Cornelia Stuyvesant Vanderbilt, in the Louis XV room at Biltmore. Cornelia went on to marry the first secretary of the British Embassy, John Francis Amherst Cecil, in 1924. The couple had two children, George Henry and William Amherst Vanderbilt Cecil.

Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil and John Amherst Cecil.

The Cecils first opened the Biltmore house doors to the public in 1930, amid requests to increase area tourism during the Great Depression. The family also helped store priceless art during World War II as a favor to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. “Nearly 100 paintings were secretly stored from 1942 to 1944 in an unfinished room on the first floor, where Biltmore’s visitors walked by unaware that works by Rembrandt, Botticelli, Raphael, Donatello, and Van Dyck were just on the other side of the wall,” Darren Poupore, the Biltmore director of curatorial and archives of 24 years, tells AD.

Construction

A veranda at the Biltmore Estate

By Michelle Duncan

By Erika Owen

By Sarah Archer

To build a 175,000-square-foot château is no easy feat, especially in the late 1800s. According to a blog post written by Judy Ross, workers constructed a temporary three-mile-railroad from Biltmore Village. The small English-inspired village functioned as an independent and self-sustaining community, as well as the entrance to George Vanderbilt’s Biltmore Estate, according to HistoricBiltmoreVillage.com. Biltmore Village is one of the earliest examples of a planned community where people could live, work, and have all necessary amenities such as a post office, a school, stores, and a church—all a stone’s throw away.

It was in Biltmore Village that the temporary railroad connected the main line of the Southern Railroad straight to the property. The train not only brought construction materials from the village, but also provided transportation for hundreds of workers, tradesmen, blacksmiths, and painters. The stonemasons (also known as the aristocrats of the labor force) were driven to Biltmore in passenger cars.

“The construction site became a bustling city of its own, with workers occupying temporarily built offices, workshops, and sheds,” states a blog post written by Jean Sexton for Biltmore.com.

According to an article by Dozr.com, Vanderbilt’s team built not only a woodworking factory on-site, but also a brick oven to help with mass production. The brick kiln is said to have produced over 32,000 bricks a day, saving builders the efforts of shipping them to the site.

As the months went on, George Vanderbilt’s country estate started taking shape. The home was built with elite, luxurious amenities for the time period, like indoor plumbing, electricity, a fire alarm system, and even a telephone system, all of which were hallmarks of the Gilded Age.

But he didn’t stop there. “George was excited about technological breakthroughs, so Biltmore House features the most cutting-edge technology available when it was constructed. At a time when many Americans were nervous to have electric lights in their home, George had not one but two electric elevators installed,” Meghan Forest, an associate curator at Biltmore, tells AD.

The basement even had a swimming pool, a gymnasium, and a bowling alley according to the National Forest Foundation.

Interior Design

The banquet hall of the Biltmore Estate

With Hunt and Olmsted designing the exterior and gardens, it was George himself who spearheaded the interior design process.

“George worked directly with the Hunt firm to design furniture, light fixtures, and drapery hardware for some rooms, and personally collected the rest of the furnishings for the house. This ranged from the rugs on the floor to the artwork on the walls, and everything in between,” Poupore says. “We have many of the receipts for his purchases of furniture, fine art, decorative art, rugs, draperies, and other furnishings in our archives.”

Some of the most renowned pieces in the 92,000-piece Biltmore collection include the Chariot of Aurora by Giovanni Pellegrini, which was installed on the ceiling of the library, and three tapestries from The Triumph of the Seven Virtues. “George filled his home with objects he treasured, collecting an eclectic array of objects,” Forest says.

“In his time, George Vanderbilt was a well-known collector of books and prints (etchings, engravings, and woodcuts). He also had a keen interest in late 19th-century sculpture and Impressionist paintings,” Poupore adds.

The Biltmore Collection continues to grow today, building upon George’s legacy. “The more recent generations of George Vanderbilt’s descendants have acquired a few art pieces to add to the estate’s private collection and, most recently, acquired a Chihuly chandelier now on view in Biltmore Winery. It was a decision by the family to add a work of modern art to the collection,” Marissa Jamison, Biltmore’s PR manager of 12 years, tells AD. A new exhibition opens to the public March 25 and contains an extensive collection of Chihuly’s work.

Architecture

A closer look at the façade of the Biltmore Estate

Once tasked with creating this labor of love, Vanderbilt, Hunt, and Hunt’s wife, Catharine, embarked on a two-month trip across the Atlantic in search of inspiration. It was in England and France where the vision for Biltmore came to life.

Hunt settled on designing the exterior of Biltmore after three French Renaissance Revival–style châteaus: Blois, Chambord, and Chenonceau estates in France. The interiors were designed after three different country homes in England: Knole Palace, Hatfield House, and Haddon Hall.

Maintaining the original splendor of the 1890s home is no small feat. “Biltmore undertakes a room restoration project every three to five years. Some projects have been in the works for more than 10 years,” Poupore explains.

The process involves many steps. It all begins with a research phase. Then, there’s the furnishing plan, sourcing of exact reproductions of original fabrics and wallpapers, conservation of furniture and objects, and structural restoration. It all comes full circle with the final installation. “We strive to return a room to its original appearance during the Vanderbilt era and we ensure our work meets the highest preservation standards,” Poupore says.

Gardens and grounds

A waterfall on the estate grounds

Vanderbilt brought in America’s most sought-after landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, to design a horticultural paradise on the Biltmore grounds. According to a virtual tour of the gardens, Vanderbilt envisioned a self-sustaining estate that would nurture the land and its resources for years to come.

In that same tour, we learn that transitions between formal and natural gardens were important to Olmsted’s plan, as was the use of native plants, small trees, large shrubs, and color and texture year-round.

At Olmsted’s advice, Vanderbilt enlisted the help of Gifford Pinchot, a trained forester who developed a plan for the management and conservation of the forest land. This led to the establishment of the Birthplace of American Forestry. Today, Biltmore honors Vanderbilt’s vision and the work of Olmsted and Pinchot through environmental protection and sustainability.

Olmsted began the landscaping at the same time Hunt was building the home, and it eventually grew to encompass 125,000 acres. Today, the gardens have been scaled back to 8,600 acres made up of a walled garden, a soaring glass-ceiling conservatory, an Italian garden, and the ancient trees in America’s first managed forest. The gardens are home to an abundance of vibrant blooms, most importantly a rare collection of orchids and azaleas.

Biltmore today

Another view of the grounds

Since first opening its doors to the public in 1930, Biltmore House draws an estimated 1.4 million visitors every year, according to Dewey Property Advisors.

Admission includes access to three grand floors (plus the basement) of America’s largest home, as well as the gardens and conservatory. Through a 50-minute audio tour, you’ll learn all about the Vanderbilts, their guests, and their servants, as well as the home’s architecture, design, and artwork.

After a tour of Biltmore House, visitors are invited to explore Antler Hill Village, a historic hub just a stone’s throw from the estate. The village is named after Antler Hill, the ridge just above Biltmore. Before it was a destination for tourism, it was once Antler Hall, a social center for families who worked on the estate in the 1930s. Today, the village is home to live demonstrations by blacksmiths and woodworkers, hands-on crafts, and a farmyard.

After a visit to Biltmore House and Antler Hill Village, a wine tasting at Biltmore Winery goes without saying. In the 1970s, George Vanderbilt’s grandson William A.V. Cecil had a vision of honoring his grandfather’s agricultural legacy by creating a sustainable winery. “We have a river. We have a château. We have the land. We have no vineyard. Every French château has a vineyard,” he said. Fast forward to 1983 and the Biltmore Estate Wine Company bottled its very first vintage of Château Biltmore Merlot and Château Biltmore Cabernet Sauvignon, both crafted from North Carolina grapes.

Visitors can further extend their Biltmore experience by booking a night (or two) at one of the three hotels on the estate: the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, The Inn on Biltmore Estate, or Cottages on Biltmore Estate,

And, with over 8,000 acres to discover, guests can also enjoy outdoor activities like guided bike rides along the French Broad River, carriage rides, hikes, river float trips, and even horseback rides.

Who owns the Biltmore Estate today?

The estate is still family-owned. George Vanderbilt’s great-grandson, Bill Cecil Jr., is the current CEO of Biltmore Company. His father (and George Vanderbilt’s grandson William Amherst Vanderbilt Cecil) was responsible for the beginning of Biltmore’s dramatic growth as a tourist destination.

What are ticket prices for Biltmore Estate?

Ticket prices to the estate range from $70 to $110, depending on the time of year you choose to visit. You could also opt in for a $299 annual pass, if you plan on visiting multiple times.

How big is the Biltmore Estate?

The property was originally 125,000 acres, spanning four counties in western North Carolina. Biltmore Estate today consists of 8,600 acres.

What is the address of Biltmore Estate?

The address of the estate is 1 Approach Road, Asheville, NC 28803. The address of the winery is 1 Lodge Street, Asheville, NC 28803.

What type of house tours are there?

There are 13 different tours listed on Biltmore’s website, from self-guided tours of the gardens to 90-minute home tours.

Is Biltmore Estate open year-round?

Biltmore is open all year, with every season offering something different. The home is most known for their magical holiday decor, which pays homage to the opening day of Biltmore back in 1895. You can experience the beauty of the 35-foot banquet hall Christmas tree or take their Candlelight Christmas evening tour.

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International Luxury Lifestyle Magazine

The Biggest Mansion in the World – 17 Most Expensive and Largest Houses

They say a man’s home is his castle, and in the case of these expensive houses that is certainly true! Discover the biggest mansion in the world and other spectacular private homes around the world in this article.

What Are The Biggest Houses in the World?

If money is no object, these gigantic homes might well appeal. Having said that, some of these huge houses are not all that attractive, considering the amount of money that has gone into their construction.

What these luxurious homes have in common are their high-end amenities and features like infinity pools and golf courses. Read on to discover the largest and most expensive mansions in the world.

We haven’t included large former mansions such as Oheka Castle, Monticello and Hearst Castle which are now hotels and museums. Most of the big mansions here are still used as homes, apart from one which is currently abandoned. So let’s find out what is the biggest house in the world.

17. Villa Firenze, Beverly Hills, USA – 28,660 square feet

Nestled in the heart of Beverly Hills, Villa Firenze reigns as a luxurious haven of indulgence. This impeccable property exudes sophistication and elegance with its exquisite architectural design, sprawling acres of grounds, and its opulent amenities.

The palatial villa boasts eight plush bedrooms and eleven bathrooms, all designed for maximum comfort and privacy. From its indoor movie theater to its lavish pool and two-story library with secret passageway, the Villa Firenze is an ideal sanctuary for those seeking the ultimate level of luxury and indulgence.

Villa Firenze is situated inside the 250 acre Beverly Park gated community, which requires all homes there to be a minimum 5,000 square feet.

Location: Beverly Hills, USA

Value: $52 million

Built: 1998

Owner: Unknown

Property Features: party patios, 30-car courtyard, an orchard, basketball court, 40 foot tall palm trees.

16. Villa Leopolda, French Riviera – 29,000 square feet

One of the most expensive houses on the French Riviera , Villa Leopolda was originally commissioned by King Leopold II of Belgium for his mistress Caroline Lacroix. The lavish property was then owned by Gianni and Marella Agnelli before being sold to the late Edmond Safra and his wife Lily.

Also known as La Leopolda, this luxury house is set in 18 acres of land. The property has panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

If the elegant villa looks familiar, that’s because it featured in Alfred Hitchcock’s movie To Catch a Thief . There are 14 bathrooms and 11 bedrooms.

Location: Villefranche-sur-Mer, France

Value: around $750 million

Built: 1902

Architect: Ogden Codman Jr.

Owner: Lily Safra

Property Features: helipad, outdoor kitchen, commercial sized greenhouse, ornate botanical gardens

15. Palazzo di Amore, Beverly Hills, USA – 53,000 square feet

Beverly Hills is home to some of the most luxurious homes in the world, and one of the most magnificent is Palazzo di Amore. Built in 2005, this 25,000 square foot estate sits on a sprawling estate of twenty five acres.

The palatial mansion features 12 bedrooms, 16 bathrooms, a ballroom with DJ booth, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Outside, guests can enjoy the lush lawns, beautiful gardens , and infinity pool with room for 150 people. But the real showstopper is the view: overlooking Beverly Hills and the Los Angeles skyline.

Location: Lania Lane, Beverly Hills, United States

Value: $195 million

Built: 2002

Architect: Bob Ray Offenhauser

Owner: Jeff Greene

Property features: two-lane bowling alley, 24-car garage, vineyard and wine cellar, spa and 50-seat movie theater.

14. The Manor, Los Angeles, USA – 56,500 square feet

Also known as Spelling Manor , as it was previously owned by TV producer Aaron Spelling, this huge mansion was then bought by Petra Ecclestone. The current owner is unknown.

Larger than the White House and 21 times the size of an average American home, The Manor is next door to the Playboy Mansion in Holmby Hills.

The property stands on the former site of Bing Crosby’s home, which was torn down to build it. The neighbors weren’t pleased about the scale of the house or the disruption caused by people trying to catch a glimpse of it.

Location: Mapleton Drive, Los Angeles, United States

Value: $119.5 million

Built: 1988

Architect: James Langenheim & Associates

Property Features: Beauty salon, barber shop, 7,500 square feet master suite, two-lane bowling alley, twin butterfly staircase.

13. The Gemini Mansion, Palm Beach, USA – 62,000 square feet

With grounds covering a total area of around 696,000 square feet, Gemini is an incredible beachfront home. Purchased by tech billionaire Larry Ellison in 2022, it boasts around 2,500 feet of beachfront – 1,300 feet on Lake Worth and 1,200 feet on the Atlantic.

In fact, Gemini takes its name from its two different coastlines. Designed in the 1940s by the architect Marion Sims Wyeth, it was originally the home of the Lambert pharmaceutical family. In recent years, this stunning residence was owned by the Ziff family.

The main house has 12 bedrooms and there are 33 bedrooms in all on the Ellison estate. There’s a sports complex with a tennis court, a PGA-standard practice golf facility and a children’s treehouse.

Location: Manalapan, Palm Beach, Florida, United States

Value: $173 million

Built: 1940s

Architect: Marion Sims Wyeth

Owner: Larry Ellison

Property Features: secluded sandy beach, butterfly garden, cell phone signal booster.

12. Fair Field, The Hamptons, USA – 64,000 square feet

Mired in controversy, Fair Field is owned by junk bond billionaire Ira Rennert. He was forced to pay $213 million in damages to MagCorp, after being accused of using company funds to pay for this Hamptons mansion.

There are 39 bathrooms, 29 bedrooms, a 91 feet dining room and three swimming pools. As well as the main house, there’s a playhouse and two pool houses on the property.

Apparently, the hot tub had a cool $150,000 price tag. The estate even has its own power plant.

Location: Sagaponack, NY, USA

Value: $248 million

Built: 2003

Architect: Perkins and Will

Owners: Ira and Ingeborg Rennert

Property Features: basketball court, 100 car garage, two-lane bowling alley, two squash courts, two tennis courts, 164-seat movie theater.

11. Xanadu 2.0, Medina, USA – 66,000 square feet

Nestled on the shores of Lake Washington, Bill Gates has a huge home with a relatively simple design. This was previously his and Melinda Gates’s house until they divorced.

There are seven bedrooms and 24 bathrooms, as well as a sensor system to regulate lighting and heat. The Seattle suburb of Medina is also home to Jeff Bezos and other wealthy residents.

The property is named after the fictional home of Charles Foster Kane , the main character in Citizen Kane . In the library there is the Codex Leicester, a manuscript by famous artist Leonardo da Vinci, and two secret bookcases. One of these leads to a hidden bar.

Location: Medina, Washington, USA

Value: $147 million

Architects: Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and Cutler Anderson Architects

Owner: Bill Gates

Property Features: swimming pool with underwater music system, trampoline room, reception room with space for 150 seated guests, artificial stream.

10. Lynnewood Hall, Elkins Park, USA – 70,000 square feet

Sadly, this spectacular mansion in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania is derelict and boarded up. Designed in the Neo-Classical Revival style, the 110 room property was originally built for the industrial tycoon Peter A.B. Widener.

A keen art collector, he commissioned Lynnewood as the result of a tragic event. Widener’s wife Hannah died after a yacht trip.

Stricken with grief, he left their townhouse in Philadelphia and had this huge mansion built for his remaining family. Unfortunately, more bad fortune was to come when Peter Widener’s son George perished on board The Titanic.

The house fell into ruin and some consider it to be the largest haunted house in the world. The current owner is the First Korean Church of New York, founded by Richard Yoon.

Location: Elkins Park, Pennsylvania

Value: $16.5 million

Built: 1897

Architect: Horace Trumbauer

Owner: Richard S. Yoon

Property Features: ballroom, art gallery, rose garden.

9. Château Pensmore, Ozark Mountains, USA – 72,000 square feet

Designed by multi-millionaire astrophysicist and businessman Steve Huff, Chateau Pensmore is is one of the largest mansions in the world. It is located in the Ozark Mountains and the area is not subject to government building regulations.

The mansion was an opportunity to experiment with the latest materials. Built entirely from energy-saving concrete, the house is reinforced with Helix steel fibers which resist explosions and natural disasters.

There are 14 bathrooms, 13 bedrooms, a testing centre for students, a history museum space and a Liberty Tree Trail within the grounds.

Location: Highlandville, Missouri

Value: $10 million

Built: 2008

Owner: Steven T. Huff

Property Features: bullet proof, earthquake resistant, blast proof, fire resistant, F5 tornado resistant and bug resistant!

8. Versailles Mansion, Windermere, USA – 85,000 square feet

This expensive home in Florida is not to be confused with the original Palace of Versailles near Paris, France. Still under construction, the property is the brainchild of David and Jackie Siegel.

Having made their fortune in timeshares, the Siegels decided to build this enormous mansion, which features in the documentary Queen of Versailles . They’ve since famously said, “We’re sorry we ever started. But we’re $50 million into it, so it really needs to get done.”

When this private residence is finished, there will be 32 bathrooms, 11 kitchens and a 30-car garage. There will also be two elevators, one of which is gold.

Location: Lake Butler Sound, Windermere, Florida, USA

Value: $100 million

Built: expected to be completed in 2022

Owners: Jacqueline and David Siegel

Property Features: bowling alley, spa, wine cellar, secret speakeasy, movie theater, 6 pools including an infinity pool, night club.

7. Witanhurst, Highgate, UK – 90,000 square feet

This Grade II listed property is the second largest house in the UK, after Buckingham Palace. The Georgian Revival mansion in North London has been extensively refurbished.

An orangery has been added, together with a 40,000 square feet basement. Witanhurst previously featured on BBC talent show Fame Academy .

There are 65 rooms, with 25 bedrooms and a 70 foot ballroom. This has ornate timber wall panels and an oak floor.

Location: Highgate, London

Value: $450 million

Built: 1913

Architect George Hubbard

Owner: Safran Holdings

Property Features: movie theatre, sauna, massage parlor, 25-car garage

6. The One, Bel Air, United States – 105,000 square feet

The One is a lavish property developed by Nile Niami, situated in the upscale neighborhood of Bel Air. This opulent mega mansion is renowned for its luxurious amenities and extravagant design.

Thought to be the largest modern house in America, it features as a filming location in the Apple+ TV series Loot . There are five swimming pools in total, with a large indoor pool.

In March 2021, Niami lost control of the property due to foreclosure. This Bel Air mega mansion was then sold at auction in March 2022, and the highest bidder was Richard Saghian. He is the owner of Fashion Nova, a fast fashion e-commerce company.

Location: Bel Air, USA

Value: $141 million

Built: 2021

Architect: Paul McClean, Real Estate Developer: Nile Niami

Owner: Richard Saghian, the owner of Fashion Nova

Property Features: 42 bathrooms, 21 bedrooms, 50 seat movie theater, running track, moat, nightclub, 50 car garage, 4 lane bowling alley, pool complex.

5. Safra Mansion, Sao Paulo, Brazil – 117,000 square feet

The late Joseph Safra and his wife Vicky had the Safra Mansion built for them, although Joseph regretted having such a huge property. He once said, “if I could go back in time I wouldn’t have built such a big house”.

There are very few photos available of Mansao Safra , the privately owned house which has a prime location in the upmarket Morumbi suburb of Sao Paulo.

The biggest house in Sao Paulo, it stands behind high security gates.

Location: Sao Paulo, Brazil

Value: unknown

Owner: Vicky Safra

Property Features: Swimming pool, 130 rooms

4. Biltmore Estate, North Carolina, USA – 175,000 square feet

One of the most impressive historic homes in America , the Biltmore Estate in Asheville is thought to be the largest private home in the U.S. Set in 8,000 acres, the estate has 250 rooms. It was originally built for George Washington Vanderbilt II, an American art collector and advocate of self-sustaining agriculture.

There are 43 bathrooms, 34 bedrooms, three kitchens, 65 fireplaces and 175,000 square feet of living space. Designed in the French Renaissance style, the largest house in America boasts several secret rooms.

A hidden door in the Breakfast Room leads to the butler’s pantry. The library has a secret space called The Den and there’s an underground tunnel beneath the property.

Location: Asheville, North Carolina, United States

Value: $157 million

Built: 1889

Architect: Richard Morris Hunt

Owner: The Biltmore Company

Property Features: winery, banquet hall, bowling alley, indoor swimming pool.

3. Antilia, Mumbai India – 400,000 square feet

Standing 500 feet high, this 27 storey property is the home of Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries, and his family. One of the largest homes in the world, it looks like a skyscraper.

There’s a helipad on the roof and nine high speed elevators. 600 staff work at this gigantic house!

Antilia is located in the most prestigious area of Mumbai, Altamount Road. The third-biggest house on our list of the biggest houses is designed to withstand an earthquake of 8 on the Richter scale.

Location: Mumbai, India

Value: roughly $2 billion

Built: 2010

Owner: Mukesh Ambani

Property Features: snow room, temple, rooftop helipad, an ice cream parlor, 50 seat movie theater, ballroom, 168 car garage and health spa.

2. Buckingham Palace, London, UK – 828,82 square feet

Although Buckingham Palace is not privately owned, being the property of The Crown Estate , it is one of the homes of King Charles III. With 775 rooms, there’s plenty of space for guests too! This is the biggest mansion in the world that is owned by an independent commercial business.

You can visit the 19 State Rooms during the Summer months, if you book well in advance. Tours also take in Buckingham Palace Garden, which is spread over 42 acres.

There are 78 bathrooms in the palace, and an underground tunnel system connecting it with Clarence House and the Houses of Parliament.

Location: London, UK

Value: estimated at $3.2 billion

Built: 1703

Architect: William Winde, remodelling by John Nash

Owner: Crown Estates

Property Features: Doctor’s surgery, post office, police station, ATM machine, movie theater, tennis court.

1. Istana Nurul Iman Palace, Brunei – 2.15 million square feet

With 1,788 rooms, a mosque and 257 bathrooms, Istana Nurul Iman Palace is the biggest mansion in the world. Also known as The Light of Faith Palace, it was designed by Leonardo Locsin and cost a colossal $1.4 billion to build in 1984.

The palace’s gold domes and vaulted roofs are a combination of Malay and Islamic architecture. As well as being a private home, this is a place where foreign dignitaries are entertained.

You can visit the world’s biggest house during the three days of Hari Raya Aidilfitri . Guests are served food and can queue to meet the Sultan or his wife.

Location: Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Value: estimated at $3.9 billion

Built: 1984

Architect: Leonardo V. Locsin.

Owner: The Sultan of Brunei

Property Features: air-conditioned stables with space for 200 polo ponies, 5 swimming pools, 110-car garage, mosque.

Here’s a recap of the biggest mansions in the world:

• Istana Nurul Iman Palace
• Buckingham Palace
• Biltmore Estate
• Safra Mansion
• Lynnewood Hall
• Four Fair Field
• The Gemini Mansion
• Palazzo di Amore
• Villa Leopolda
• Villa Firenze

In Conclusion: The Biggest Mansion in the World

While there are many big houses in the world, these mega mansions take things to a whole new level! These estates may be out of reach for most people, but they provide us with a glimpse into the lifestyles of the ultra-rich.

Be sure to check out our other architectural articles here on LuxuryColumnist.

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10 of the biggest houses in the world

If we wanted to just make a list of the biggest residences in the world, it would be full of palaces. The Sultan of Brunei’s 2,152,782-square-foot, marble-laden palace would be at the top of the list.

• 1. Antilia — Mumbai, India
• 2. Biltmore Estate — Asheville, North Carolina
• 3. Safra Mansion — Sao Paulo, Brazil
• 4. Witanhurst London — England
• 5. Versailles — Windermere, Florida
• 6. Villa Leopolda — The French Riviera
• 7. The One — Bel Air, California
• 8. Taohuayuan — Suzhou, China
• 9. Pensmore — Highlandville, Missouri
• 10. Fair Field — Sagaponack, New York

For our list of the world’s largest homes, we tried to stick with privately owned homes, so we excluded Oheka Castle, Arden House, and some other Vanderbilt and Hearst homes, as many are now hotels, research facilities, or the property of a university or parks department, respectively. Read on to see just what kind of real estate big money can buy.

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1. Antilia — Mumbai, India

With a net worth in the billions, Mukesh Ambani is currently the richest person in India and on earth. The oil and gas tycoon can boast about owning the world’s largest and most expensive private residence. The $2 billion home, known as Antilia — because, as you’ll notice, naming your home is apparently a thing for the uber-wealthy — is a towering, 27-story skyscraper situated in downtown Mumbai.

Ambani worked with architecture firms Perkins + Will and Hirsch Bedner Associates to build his personal skyscraper. Standing 550 feet high and hosting 400,000 square feet of living space, the entire project took more than four years to complete. To prevent repeating architectural elements, no two floors are identical in either floor plan or building material. The overall structure is based on Vaastu , an Indian architectural philosophy that’s similar to the Chinese feng shui tradition. Nine elevators carry individuals throughout the massive complex, and the top floors of Antilia offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

2. Biltmore Estate — Asheville, North Carolina

If you had to guess where shipping and railroad magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt and his heirs built some of their many residences, you’d probably say New York City or Long Island. And, you’d be right. Asheville, North Carolina, probably wouldn’t immediately spring to mind unless you’re familiar with the Biltmore Estate . Completed in 1895, the chateau-inspired main house has 250 rooms. The estate’s 8,000 acres now hold a winery farm, stables, and gardens. ( The Devil in the White City readers will recognize the name of Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed the gardens, in addition to Central Park and the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.) Cornelia Vanderbilt Cecil opened the home to the public in 1930. While you can’t stay in one of the house’s 34 bedrooms, there is a hotel, inn, and cottage on the grounds that accept guests.

With its 43 bathrooms, three kitchens, 65 fireplaces, banquet hall, 70,000-gallon indoor swimming pool, 23,000-book library, and bowling alley, it’s a palatial structure that came outfitted with modern conveniences for the era: electricity, central plumbing and heating, fire alarms, and elevators. The 178,926-square-foot home is considered the largest private residence in the U.S.

3. Safra Mansion — Sao Paulo, Brazil

What can we tell you about this mansion owned by a notoriously private banking family, the Safras? Not much, except it’s ginormous and is a bit reminiscent of Villa Leopolda, a French Riviera mansion that once belonged to his brother Edmond. (Actually number six on this list.) Surrounded by a high wall, the 130-room house is about 10,868 square meters (35,565 square feet) and features two swimming pools (one indoors).

The largest private residence in Sao Paulo, it’s located in the Morumbi neighborhood, next door to the city’s second-biggest home. Though it’s been the site of several Safra family members’ weddings, there don’t seem to be many photos of the home online. The Safra family is as sprawling as its mansion, and they have pricey real estate all over the globe. In 2014, Joseph bought the Gherkin , a London skyscraper, for more than $990 million (£700 million). Jacob M. Safra, the son of Joseph’s late brother Mosie, purchased Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’s childhood home for more than $25 million in 2017. According to Forbes, Joseph Safra is worth $22.8 billion, making him number 39 on its billionaire list .

4. Witanhurst London — England

Technically, Buckingham Palace is the largest residence in London. It has roughly 830,000 square feet of living space, 775 rooms, and several corgis . Because it’s also the home of a queen, we’re skipping it in favor of the city’s second-largest abode. Designed by architect George Hubbard to incorporate part of the Georgian-style Parkfield estate that previously stood on the property, the newly named Witanhurst was built between 1913 and 1920. A former resident who had grown up using the trapeze in Parkland’s gymnasium once referred to the remodeled home as “the present monster.” Over the next century, Witanhurst became dilapidated after decades of neglect, despite serving as the setting for the BBC show Fame Academy in the early 2000s.

If Lady Greig thought the 40,000-square-foot home was monstrous before, there’s no telling what she’d make of Witanhurst’s most recent renovation. With the addition of two basements — housing a 70-foot swimming pool, movie theater , massage parlor, a sauna, gym, and parking spaces — the living space will add up to 90,000 square feet. Just who bought the mansion for £50 million in 2008 was a mystery, until 2015, when The New Yorker reported it was Russian billionaire Andrey Guryev.

5. Versailles — Windermere, Florida

Getting the gem-encrusted floor of your dreams can be a rocky road. The ups and downs of Jacqueline and David Siegel’s mega-mansion were chronicled in the 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles . Back then it seemed like the couple might lose their still-under-construction behemoth. But in 2017, they were reportedly attempting to hire Bravo’s Flipping Out crew to decorate every inch of the suburban palace’s 90,000 square feet. Jeff Lewis turned the job down.

The home has 32 bathrooms, 11 kitchens, 14 bedrooms, an arcade, a gym, a salon, and a movie theater. There’s also space for 30 cars in the garage and six pools to choose from. On the Bravo show, Jackie said she scrapped plans for an indoor ice skating rink because she thought a roller rink would be more versatile. As of October 2019 , the home mansion is still under construction, but should be completed within the next year or two.

6. Villa Leopolda — The French Riviera

Constructed more than a century ago, Villa Leopolda is brimming with history as well as extravagance. The 50-acre estate situated in the French Riviera was originally constructed by  King Leopold II of Belgium, and was later bestowed upon one of his mistresses as a gift. Inside there are 11 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms, as well as a commercial greenhouse.

The home was used as a military hospital during World War I and has made appearances in several films over the years, including Powell and Pressburger’s The Red Shoes and Alfred Hitchcock’s classic,  To Catch a Thief .

7. The One — Bel Air, California

When asked if some of the spec giga-mansions promising buyers 100,000 square feet of space would challenge Versailles’s supremacy , Jackie Siegel said they don’t count because it’s not all under one roof. She’s not wrong. Film producer and real estate developer Nile Niami has boasted about a 100,000-square-foot Bel Air, California, property, The One , but it’s actually a 73,934-square-foot main house and some adjacent buildings that make up that total figure. Not that nearly 74,000 is anything to scoff at, of course.

The prospective owner will be able to boast about being neighbors with Jennifer Aniston — for $500,000,000 . They can also roam around the house’s 20 bedrooms and 30 bathrooms , go bowling, or feed the jellyfish that live in the ceiling. Despite several appeals, the city denied letting Niami add a third kitchen he hoped to have for catered events. It seems the neighbors aren’t keen on having a “ party house ” in the area. The new owner will just have to limit the guest list when inviting people to sample the wine room or chill in the night club .

8. Taohuayuan — Suzhou, China

Sometimes a lake view is not enough, and that’s when you have to spring for a swimming pool and pond, too. The landscaping is modeled on the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient gardens, which incorporate stones, water, and plants, are in the same city as Taohuayuan, a 72,441-square-foot mansion on Dushu Lake.

With 32 bathrooms and bedrooms and a wine cellar, the interior decor is a mix of modern and more classic design. When it went on sale in 2016, it was mainland China’s most expensive house, according to Mansion Global . With the $154 million (1 billion yuan) price came views of Suzhou’s skyline, the privacy of its island setting, and curved roofs and other traditional architectural elements.

9. Pensmore — Highlandville, Missouri

Most over-the-top mansions are built for aesthetics, but Steven Huff constructed Pensmore for science. Thanks to the concrete Huff created, it’s supposed to withstand bombs, earthquakes, and whatever else the Ozarks throw at it. The astrophysicist and former CIA officer wanted to use the 13-bedroom, 14-bathroom fortress as a testing ground for energy-efficient and disaster-resistant building technology, according to a slightly over-the-top Travel Channel video.

CIA plus astrophysicist plus disaster-proof equals conspiracy theories, and there are plenty of those swirling around Pensmore. Its future is uncertain, though, because Huff filed a lawsuit against the construction company that built the 72,000-square-foot lab/bunker/family home. At the time, Huff wanted it torn down and restarted from scratch.

10. Fair Field — Sagaponack, New York

Right from the start, neighbors were grumpy  about the sprawling estate, and adding helicopters to the mix didn’t help matters. Then Rennert was accused of funneling money from a mining company to pay for Fair Field, which is valued at $248,477,200. He was ordered to pay $213 million in March of 2017. Back in the late 1990s, when Rennert was constructing Fair Field, Kurt Vonnegut was very perturbed , inspiring James Brady to fictionalize the story in The House that Ate the Hamptons .

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The Ring Stick Up is a good security camera for indoors or outdoors. It can go almost anywhere, and allows you to hear and speak to people on camera from your phone or tablet. You can customize the motion sensors to focus on specific areas of your home, and it has a Live View that allows you to watch over your home in 1080p Full HD resolution at any time. It even works with Alexa, allowing you to hear audio announcements when motion is detected. The Ring Stick Up sets up in minutes and it charges easily with a removable battery pack. This is a great option if you’re looking for something capable but versatile.

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6 of the Biggest Houses in the World

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Most people are overjoyed to have a couple thousand square feet to call their own, but the world's ultra-wealthy are living in far more space than that. From ultramodern mansions to historically significant properties, there are a handful of truly huge houses scattered around the world, each with their own perks and amenities. Here are six of the biggest houses in the world starting with the "smallest." Our list excludes places like the Palace of Versailles, which is no longer a home, but instead a museum.

• Villa Leopolda
• Buckingham Palace
• Istana Nurul Iman Palace

Located in the elite Los Angeles suburb of Bel Air, Fashion Nova owner Richard Saghian purchased The One in March 2022 at auction for $141 million. Originally, the estate was listed for a whopping $295 million, but no one offered anywhere near that sum for the 21-bedroom, 49-bathroom stunner. Before that, the property was developed over a 10-year period by a former film producer named Nile Niami . However, when lenders decided to foreclose, his firm had to file for bankruptcy, and the huge mansion achieved dubious status as the highest auction price ever for a home in the U.S. In addition to five swimming pools and a 30-car garage, The One boasts 74,000 square feet (6,875 square meters) of luxe space and all the modern amenities a fashion magnate could ask for, including a nightclub, a 10,000-bottle wine cellar and a 5,000 square-foot (464 square-meter) master bedroom. It is considered the largest modern house in America.

5. Villa Leopolda

The French Riviera is home to Villa Leopolda, which was originally built by King Leopold II of Belgium, then presented as a gift to his mistress , a French teenage prostitute. The stunning 18-acre (7.2-hectare) estate appears in the classic movie "To Catch a Thief" and includes 11 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms. It offers unparalleled views of the Mediterranean, as well as a greenhouse, botanical gardens and even a helipad. Today, Villa Leopolda is considered the most expensive private residence in all of Europe, with 80,000 square feet (7,432 square meters) of space. It is currently owned by a Russian billionaire who bought it for $750 million in 2008.

4. Witanhurst

The second-largest residential estate in London (more about the first in a moment), Witanhurst is 90,000 square feet (8,361 square meters) of luxury. It's currently owned by a Russian oligarch named Andrey Guryev , although he's not believed to actually live there full-time. The $400 million Georgian Revival mansion has 25 bedrooms and is a study in amenities , including a sauna, 70-foot (21-meter) swimming pool, movie theater, ballroom and massage parlor. Finished in 1920, it was recently renovated.

At 400,000 square feet (37,000 square meters), the Mumbai skyscraper of Antilia dwarfs even the most opulent personal residences out there, yet is only the third-biggest house on this list. it is the current Guinness World Record holder for largest house (owned by an individual). The huge property is found on South Mumbai's ultra-swank Altamount Road, one of the most expensive areas in the world. It is owned by Indian business magnate Mukesh Ambani , who commissioned it to be able to withstand an earthquake of up to 8 on the Richter scale .

The property is managed by a staff of 600 and although it's only 27 stories, their oversized stature actually makes it as tall as the average 60-story building. Six floors are dedicated to housing up to 168 cars, plus there's a movie theater, beauty salon, ice cream parlor and nine high-speed elevators. Since Mumbai is known for its high temperatures, the property even has a room where artificial snowflakes shoot from the walls. This personal skyscraper cost somewhere between $1 and 2 billion to construct.

2. Buckingham Palace

Britain's royals don't take care of business in bland old cubicles. Instead, England's Buckingham Palace serves as both the home of the sovereign and the royal administrative headquarters. Technically, Buckingham Palace doesn't belong to the British monarch (i.e., he/she can't sell it). It is owned by the Crown Estate , an independent company that gives any profits to the British Treasury. (In return, the monarch receives a fixed annual payment.)

With 775 rooms to its credit, including 52 royal bedrooms and guest quarters, there are also 19 state rooms and 188 staff bedrooms on-site. This is one mansion you can pay to visit, though the private rooms will be off limits. The true stars of the property are probably the regal throne room and the gilded white drawing room, which contains a Victorian-era gilded piano . Currently, the property is valued at a whopping $4.9 billion for the 828,000-plus square feet (76,924 square meters) of space.

1. Istana Nurul Iman Palace

The official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, this massive estate cost more than $1.4 billion to build — and that was back in 1984 when a buck went a lot further. Istana Nurul Iman is also the official seat of Brunei's government, and since the 29th Sultan of Brunei calls it home, it has earned the Guinness World Record for the largest residential palace. At more than 2.1 million square feet (200,000 square meters) in size, the palace features 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms and 44 marble staircases. It also boasts an enormous mosque, complete with a golden dome.

In addition, there's a 5,000-person banquet hall, five swimming pools and a 110-car garage. Even the hundreds of polo ponies have their own air-conditioned stables. This impressive estate is several times larger than Buckingham Palace or the Palace of Versailles. Every year, for a few days after Ramadan, you can visit the palace for free and be personally greeted by the Sultan or his wife, depending on your gender.

The biggest house in the U.S. is the Biltmore Estate , also known as the Biltmore House. It's a 250-room, 175,000 square-foot (16,258 square-meter) chateau nestled in picturesque Asheville, North Carolina, and was the country home of 19th century industrialist George Vanderbilt. The Biltmore Estate is open for tours and features 65 fireplaces, a banquet hall, bowling alley and an indoor swimming pool.

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These Are 10 of the Biggest Houses in the World

Can you guess where number one is located?

Istana Nurul Iman in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

The world's largest residential palace, Istana Nurul Iman serves as the official home of the sultan of Brunei, his family, and dignified guests. Filipino architect Leandro Locsin mixed elements from both Malay and Islamic architecture to give the home a palatial appearance. The extravagant palace houses an incredible 1,788 rooms including air-conditioned stables for the sultan's 200 polo ponies, a mosque that can accommodate up to 5,000 people, and a 110-car garage.

Buckingham Palace in London, England

Buckingham Palace may just be one of the most recognizable royal residences in the world—and one of the largest. The Neoclassical stunner has been the official London residence of the United Kingdom’s monarchs since 1837 and currently operates as Queen Elizabeth's main administrative headquarters. The palace has a resounding 775 rooms with some of the most famous being the gilded white drawing room and the regal throne room.

Antilia in Mumbai, India

Antilia soars high above the city of Mumbai as one of the world's most elaborate and expensive homes. The 27-story home owned by business magnate Mukesh Ambani is estimated to cost between $1 and $2 billion. Chicago-based architects Perkins and Will designed the structure to withstand extreme earthquakes by making each floor the same height as a two-storied building. Antilia houses its own ice cream parlor, a mega-temple, and a 50-person movie theater.

Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina

America's largest house was the brainchild of businessman George Vanderbilt who sought to create his own self-sustaining home in Asheville, North Carolina. In 1889, he tapped two of the country's design and landscape leaders to make his vision come to life: Richard Morris Hunt, who designed and built the home, and Frederick Law Olmsted , who designed the gardens and grounds. The 250-room French Renaissance château officially opened to family and friends during Christmas in 1895 and has evolved into a national landmark.

Safra Mansion in São Paulo, Brazil

Hidden in a richly forested area of São Paulo sits the iconic mansion of late Brazilian socialite Lily Safra. The regal 117,000-square-foot manse contains an estimated 130 rooms plus an extravagant outdoor living area. However, little is known about the interior design of the home as the Safra family has kept a quiet private life.

Oheka Castle in Long Island, New York

In 1919, financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn built the iconic French-style chateau on the highest point of Long Island, establishing it as the second largest private residence in America. He used the 127-room summer home to entertain renowned guests from across the world including the Hollywood elite and heads of state. After his death, the estate took on many roles, such as a retirement home and military academy, until it was eventually restored into a famed hotel and event space.

The One in Bel Air, California

Overlooking the city of Los Angeles, The One is the largest modern house in America, measuring at roughly 105,000 square feet. The Bel Air mega mansion houses not only 21 bedrooms, but it also has its own gym and juice bar, a hair salon, two turntables, a four-lane bowling alley, and a movie theater. There's even a 10,000-bottle wine cellar and neighboring cigar lounge for those wanting to indulge.

Witanhurst in London, England

Buckingham Place may be London's biggest royal residence, but Witanhurst doesn't come too far behind. Built between 1913 and 1920 in the Highgate neighborhood, Witanhurst is a shining example of Queen Anne-style architecture with its glass rotunda, sprawling ballroom, and 25 bedrooms. While it was once a meeting place for the likes of royalty (even Queen Elizabeth), it fell to ruins until 2008 when it was sold to a Russian businessman and immediately put under renovation.

Fairwater in Double Bay, Australia

Located in Sydney's affluent Double Bay suburb, the Fairwater estate was originally designed by architect John Horbury Hunt in 1882. While previously owned by an Australian political family, the Federation Arts and Crafts-style home rose to popularity under the ownership of the Fairfax family. Lady Mary Fairfax would famously host renowned salons in the lavish abode where members of high society would discuss the latest happenings in the arts scene. After her death, software giant Mike Cannon-Brookes purchased Fairwater for a resounding $100 million, making it Australia's most expensive house.

Villa Leopolda in Villefranche-sur-Mer, France

Nestled on the French Riviera, Villa Leopolda's origins date back to the reign of King Leopold II of Belgium, who gifted the estate to his mistress Blanche Zélia Joséphine Delacroix. Though, after his death in 1909, his family promptly evicted Delacroix and gave the home to King Albert I. Eventually, American architect Ogden Codman, Jr. would come into possession of the estate and transform the property's 12 structures into the elaborate mansion we know today.

Sarah DiMarco (she/her) is the associate editor at VERANDA, covering all things design, architecture, art, gardens, jewelry, travel, wine and spirits. She also manages social media for the brand.

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The Top 10 Biggest Houses in the World

By Vlad Craciun

Updated on March 3, 2022

Homes are definitely the most cherished possessions of a human being. Partly because they ensure a comfortable life and partly because they’re the main ways to show the social status of their inhabitants. And in our modern and overly competitive world, status is utterly important. Especially for some of the men and women of today’s high society.

While for most people a decent sized house is more than enough, for some, it’s only giant ostentatious mansions that rise to their limitless expectations. And you can bet those expectations come with more money than they can count. But, and we have to be honest here, that doesn’t mean the houses we’re going to be talking about aren’t beautiful, because they are. They’re simply gorgeous.

Beyond their massive size, their style and architecture are something not many of us can dream of. Grand, stylish and full of tech, these are The Top 10 Biggest Houses in The World right now:

• 10. Pensmore – Highlandville, Missouri – 72,215 square feet

While most people build huge houses to boost their social status or show off with their purchase power and their extravagant tastes in terms of design and aesthetics, this one guy named Steven Huff decided to build one for proving something else. Something a lot more different than most would expect.

Steven Huff is an astrophysicist and former CIA officer and his plans for the huge mansion is to prove that a house can be, oh well… bullet, bomb, earthquake, fire, tornado, hurricane and pretty much everything proof.

The construction works began back in 2008, but its future is still unclear. The latest news are that the owner wants it torn down and rebuilt from scratch because it’s not as strong as he wished it, blaming the construction company for that.

• 9. The One – Bel-Air, California – 74,000 square feet

Imagined and built by film producer and real estate developer Nile Niami, the 74,000 sq ft property in Bel Air, California, nicknamed “The One”, will – when finished – be the most expensive house in America. The price of this modern beauty rises to the astounding sum of $500 million.

Too much? Probably. Too large? Depends on who you’re asking. Too ostentatious? Well, the answer is the same, it depends who you’re asking. But what’s certain is that the house will have almost all the amenities you can think of, including – but not limiting to – a 5,000 sq ft master bedroom, an Imax-style theater, four swimming pools, a garage for no less than 30 cars and a 8,500 sq ft night club.

With 20 bedrooms and 30 bathrooms and a specialy designed jellyfish room, The One seems more like a party house used for all kinds of events rather than a true home.

• 8. Villa Leopolda – The French Riviera – 80,000 square feet

Constructed between 1929 and 1931 by the American architect Ogden Codman Jr. and belonging to the Brazilian billionaire Lily Safra until 2008 when she finally sold it to a Russian oligarch, Villa Leopolda is a history book in itself. Situated in the French Riviera, it first belonged to King Leopold II of Belgium who built it as a gift for his mistress Blanche Zélia Joséphine Delacroix.

The 80,000 sq ft property was even used as a military hospital during the arduous World War I. Nowadays, the huge villa is thought to be among the most expensive Europe homes, evaluated at around a little more than $500 million. The property boasts two guest houses with a total of 11 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms, immense gardens and probably the best beach front on the whole continent.

• 7. La Reverie – Palm Beach, Florida – 84,626 square feet

Purchased for a modest $4.5 million back in 1995, La Reverie is the largest celebrity residence in Palm Beach, Florida and number 7 around the globe. It looks a bit like a house rendering in this photo, but trust us, it’s pretty massive. Beyond comfortable living, its current owners also use it also to host charity events and concerts.

La Reverie was built by Sydell Miller, the owner of Matrix Essentials hair product company. The location couldn’t have been better, since Palm Beach attracts all the rich and famous. Which is a good thing when you want to sell huge mansions for grand sums.

• 6. Modern Versailles – Windermere, Florida – 90,000 square feet

Situated in Orange County, Florida, the Versailles mega mansion belongs to Jaqueline and David Siegel, the CEO of Westgate Resorts. The huge estate was so long under construction that at some point, the couple went close to losing the immense house.

With a 8,000 sq ft master bedroom and over 30 bathrooms, 15 bedrooms, 11 kitchens and 6 swimming pools, the behemoth drew a lot of attention and was featured on several documentaries, the most famous one being The Queen of Versailles.

• 5. Witanhurst – London, England – 90,000 square feet

Witanhurst is the second largest residential estate in London after the Buckingham Palace. It was designed by architect George Hubbard and built between 1913 and 1920, incorporating part of the former Parkfield estate that stood on the massive property.

The 90,000 sq ft estate comprises of all the modern amenities one could wish for, such as a swimming pool with sauna room and gym, a movie theater, massage parlor and plenty of parking space. The owner? It seems to be the Russian billionaire Andrey Guryev, who bought it in 2008 for nearly $64 million.

• 4. Safra Mansion – Sao Paulo, Brazil – 117,000 square feet

Located in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the Safra Mansion reminds a little bit of the Villa Leopolda in the French Riviera, who was owned by Lily Safra and her husband Edmond, a renowned banker who died in a suspect fire at his mansion in Monaco back in 1999.

The Safra Mansion is an enormous 117,000 sq ft estate boasting no less than 130 rooms, indoor and outdoor pools and it’s surrounded by a high wall. What’s inside is not known to many, because the Safra family members like to keep to themselves. They are known to have several super expensive properties around the world.

• 3. Biltmore Estate – Asheville, North Carolina – 178,926 square feet

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina is considered the largest private residence in the United States, and it’s no wonder with its 178,926 sq ft of splendid surroundings. Finished back in 1895, its architecture completes the beauty of the mountainous landscape in the area.

Unlike most other private mansions of the world, the Biltmore Estate comes with a twist. In 1930, it was open to the public, offering accommodation in its Village Hotel or the property’s four star Inn, plus gourmet foods and their own wine.

Owned by the railroad and shipping magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt, Biltmore Estate’s main house has a chateau-like charm and no less than 250 rooms. Add to that 43 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, a bowling alley, a 23,000 book library and a huge indoor swimming pool plus all the modern amenities you can dream of and you’ve got one of the best houses in the world. Or, to avoid being subjective, one of the largest.

• 2. Antilia – Mumbai, India – 400,000 square feet

While most people build themselves large mansions, one particular capitalist in India decided to build himself a personal skyscraper. The Indian pharmaceutical magnate Mukesh Ambani is the owner of Antilla, a 27 story 550 foot tall building in the heart of Mumbai, India.

With a total surface of 400,000 sq ft, it’s the second largest private residence in the world right now and took over $1 billion to be constructed. But that probably wasn’t too much for the owner, who is India’s richest man after all, with a net worth exceeding $30 billion.

The building boasts a unique architecture, with each floor designed differently and using different materials. The entire building was constructed with Vastu shastra as the central philosophy in mind, which is a traditional Hindu art of building houses. Every floor has its own purpose, from car garages to spa’s, gym’s and indoor pools and even a helipad on top.

• 1. Istana Nurul Iman Palace – Brunei – 2.15 million square feet

What could the largest house in the world be if not a huge luxurious palace? The official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, Istana Nurul Iman Palace is by far the world’s biggest home with its 2.15 million square feet of space.

Boasting no less than 1,788 rooms and 257 bathrooms, a 110 car garage, horse stables, banquet hall, swimming pools and even a mosque that can gather 1,500 people, the palace is sure to impress a lot of people.

Called the Palace of Faith Light, it was designed in 1984 by Leandro V. Locsin and constructed by the Filipino firm, Ayala International. And since most of you might be curious about the cost of such a mesmerizing home, it rises to a whooping $1.4 billion.

About Vlad Craciun

Vlad has over 7 years of experience writing content about subjects such as travel, cars, motorcycles, tech & gadgets, and his newly discovered passion, watches. He’s in love with two wheeled machines and the freedom and the thrills that motorcycle travel provides. Learn more about Luxatic's Editorial Process .

18 thoughts on “The Top 10 Biggest Houses in the World”

Hello, You have attached the false picture to No. (1. Istana Nurul Iman Palace – Brunei) The above attached picture belong to the New Istana Negara National Royal Palace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. and Not Istana Nurul Iman Palace in Brunei.

That’s not Istana Nurul Iman Palace in Brunei but Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur.

Hi guys, thanks for the comments – it seems even Google Images displays wrong photos when you search for the Istana Nurul Iman Palace in Brunei. We found a good photo of the Royal Palace in Brunei and replaced the one posted initially, that was from Kuala Lumpur – thanks for noticing this error.

I have sawed the Antilia. It’s an awesome house.

As an Asheville resident and a monumentally huge fan of not only the biltmore estate but of the brilliant minds that collaborated to make it a reality (Richard Morris Hunt, Frederick Law Olmstead, Karl Bitter, Raphael Gustivino, and last but certainly not least THE ESTATE’S TRUE OWNER: GEORGE WASHINGTON VANDERBILT II !! Neither the railroad nor Cornelius Vanderbilt were ever owners.

The fourth-largest behind the Biltmore would be the Oheka palace which boasts an astounding 109,000 sq ft and is located on Long Island in New York.

Number 3 should be Wentworth Woodhouse in Wentworth, Yorkshire England. It was famous for being the largest private home in the world and then the UK for years, It is more than twice the length of Buckingham Palace. With 250,000 sq/ft of floorspace, I’m not sure why you’d leave out both Buckingham palace at 828,818 sq/ft or Windsor castle at 484,000 sq/ft, especially with who’s at no.1.

Continued, With you placing the Sultan’s palace at no.1 this list opens itself up for all kinds of debate, which other palaces can you include imo, the British ones because they are permanent residents or others that are even bigger like Ak Saray in Turkey at 2,152,997 sq ft, or the Royal Palace of Caserta in Italy at 2,583,339 sq ft, or the largest functioning palace the Royal Palace of Madrid

Also if you can include a lovely building like the Biltmore Estate , lovely but none the less a hotel now, we might as well include the biggest proposed home of them all, which was the one Romania dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, was built for himself until the fall of communism, which is now the Palace of the Parliament which is monstrous at 3,552,090 sq ft

Largest residence in the world is Laxmi Vilas palace,india which spread over 700 Acres almost 4 times larger then Buckingham palace.

I am baffled at how the Paz Palace in Buenos Aires is almost always over looked. It was considered to be the second privately owned House in the American Continent until it became a Military Museum. I mean, it’s “only” slightly over 129 thousand sq ft…

That house is pretty cool

#8 Could not have been used as a hospital during the first World War, as the article states, having been built from 1929-1931. The war was very much over by the time the house was even starting construction.

agreed Paul – it should be here. I was lucky enough to get there – not easy – soon after the new trustees took over and again the next year… qualifies as bigger than many here – well worth a visit. check out their website if you are in country..

These mansions are homes to the richest in the world… I think so, since the prices are astonishing. I will buy them using my eyes and live inside them during dreams 🙄

However large that Brunei palace is, it still only is a fraction to what truly is majestic and iconic such as the Forbidden City, the Imperial Palace of China in Beijing. With 9,999 rooms, that alone is enough to dwarf the former.

After being pinpointed on the wrong photo used where the picture used is the new National Palace of Malaysia, nothing is being done to rectify such hiccup! Lame!

I think these people have to much money! Anyone with that kind of money that does not help this world not have straving people and homelessness does not deserve any of their riches! Just my opinion

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'America's most expensive home' is on the market for $295 million – we take a tour

The 'largest and grandest house ever built in the urban world' is for sale for the first time in history

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'America's most expensive home' – aptly named The One is currently for sale for an estimated $295-million. The Bel Air estate is also the world's largest private residence and is described as 'the first and last of its kind' – following predictions that a home of this magnitude may never be built again. 

The property, which took eight years to complete, was originally priced at $340 million. However, it is expected to sell at auction for an estimated price of $295-million. If it reaches the asking price, the home will hold the largest price tag in U.S. history – overtaking entrepreneur Ken Griffin's $238 million Manhattan penthouse. 

But what makes this property one of the world's best homes ? Here, we take a tour of the record-breaking estate. 

Floating high above SoCal in the Santa Monica Mountains, The One exhibits panoramic views that stretch beyond downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean. The home, created by architect  Paul McClean and interior designer Kathryn Rotondi features a moat of water, five swimming pools, and a 10,000-square-foot sky deck. 

However, beyond its luxe exteriors, The One is a trove of decorating ideas that accentuate McClean's architectural assets. This is showcased within moments of stepping inside the home – through its entryway that features art from sculptor Mike Fields and Italian glass artist Simone Cenedese. 

Further inside the home, there is similarly a butterfly installation by Stephen Wilson and a two-story library with Italian black hand-lacquered built-ins that have reset all home library ideas . 

Alongside its artistic features, the home exhibits a monochromatic palette that runs throughout the living room, dining room, and kitchen. This scheme creates a contrast with the colors of the mountains and city that are showcased through the surrounding glass walls (which are visible around the entire property). 

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While these modern living room ideas are something to behold, The One also offers an extensive collection of amenities that set the home aside. Highlights include a Dolby Digital theater, a wellness spa, and a nightclub for when night falls above the city.

'The One is simply unrivaled. This property features ultra-luxury amenities beyond any buyer's wildest dreams,' explains Rayni Williams , a co-listing agent from Williams & Williams at The Beverly Hills Estates.

'There's a reason The One is setting a new high watermark for global real estate—more flat land coupled with the biggest views, more so than any other property previously for sale in Los Angeles,' she adds. 

Aaron Kirman of Aaron Kirman Group at Compass and Branden and Rayni Williams of Williams & Williams at The Beverly Hills Estates holds the listing – in cooperation with Concierge Auctions .

Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens. She first joined Future Plc as a News Writer across their interiors titles, including Livingetc and Real Homes, before becoming H&G's News Editor in April 2022. She now leads the Celebrity/ News team. Before joining Future, Megan worked as a News Explainer at The Telegraph , following her MA in International Journalism at the University of Leeds. During her BA in English Literature and Creative Writing, she gained writing experience in the US while studying in New York. Megan also focused on travel writing during her time living in Paris, where she produced content for a French travel site. She currently lives in London with her antique typewriter and an expansive collection of houseplants.

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Take a look inside a historic 54-room Gilded Age mansion that belonged to one of America's richest families

Posted: April 30, 2024 | Last updated: May 8, 2024

• The Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, New York, was built by Frederick Vanderbilt in the 1890s.
• The 45,000-square-foot Gilded Age mansion is located on 153 acres of land in the Hudson Valley.
• The National Park Service offers tours of the mansion to the public.

During the Gilded Age in the late 1800s, railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt was the richest man in America with a net worth of $100 million, or around $200 billion today — more money than the US Treasury had at the time.

After Cornelius' death in 1937, his son William Vanderbilt took over the businesses and doubled his father's fortune. He died the wealthiest private individual in the world in 1885.

William's son, Frederick Vanderbilt, and his wife, Louise, purchased a 153-acre Hyde Park property in 1895. Construction on the mansion began in 1895 and was finished three years later.

The mansion and its grounds are now owned by the National Park Service , which offers tours of the property. I visited the Vanderbilt mansion in February 2023 to see its opulent rooms for myself.

The Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, New York, was home to one of America's wealthiest families during the Gilded Age.

In total, Frederick and Louise Vanderbilt spent $660,000 to build the home (more than $23 million in today's money) and $1.5 million (around $53 million today) to furnish it.

Today, the Vanderbilt Mansion is owned and operated by the National Park Service.

Frederick and Louise didn't have children. After Frederick's death in 1938, he left the house to Louise's niece, Margaret Van Alen. The Vanderbilts' neighbor in Hyde Park, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, then suggested preserving the estate by converting it into a national park.

The Vanderbilt Mansion opened to the public in 1940, according to the National Park Service.

I bought my tour ticket at the Pavilion Visitor Center, which once served as a guest house.

The only way to see inside the mansion is through a guided tour with a park ranger.

The hourlong tours cost $15 per person and are offered daily at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. There are no reservations — tickets are sold at the visitor center on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The visitor center featured a Vanderbilt family tree and information about their other homes across the US.

The Vanderbilts' largest home, the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, features 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces .

The Vanderbilt family also had homes in New York City, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts .

The tour began outside the Vanderbilt Mansion, where our park-ranger guide told us about the construction of the 45,000-square-foot home.

The building was designed by architects McKim, Mead & White and built by Norcross Brothers. The exterior is made of Indiana limestone.

The Vanderbilts used the home as a seasonal escape in the spring and fall. It has six floors and a total of 54 rooms, according to the National Park Service .

We then walked through the front door into an opulent entrance hall.

The oval-shaped entrance hall was furnished with green marble imported from Italy.

The space was full of decorative tapestries, sculptures, and other artifacts.

Unlike most residences at the time, the mansion had running water and electricity.

Frederick used his office to manage the affairs of the Hyde Park estate.

The office contained a private bathroom that led into his den.

Frederick's den functioned as his private leisure space.

The den included a small library of books and a moose head mounted to the wall.

The dining room sat 18 people, which is believed to be the largest gathering the Vanderbilts hosted at Hyde Park.

The Vanderbilts hosted their first housewarming dinner party in May 1899, and only entertained about once per season.

It also features a 400-year-old Persian carpet, one of the largest known Islamic carpets in the world.

The carpet measures about 20 by 40 feet.

After dinner parties, guests would enjoy coffee and games of charades in the formal living room.

Decorated with antique Renaissance furniture, the living room featured Circassian walnut panels on the walls.

The ground floor also included an 18th-century-style French salon where Louise would occasionally have tea with guests or spend time alone.

Frederick and Louise had a permanent residence in Paris, which inspired the Louis XIV-style decor.

Vanderbilt butler Alfred Martin told the National Park Service that when the door to the salon was closed, "that was a sure indication that Mrs. Vanderbilt did not want to be disturbed."

A grand staircase led to the second floor.

The railing of the staircase was coated in velvet to make even climbing the stairs a comfortable, luxurious experience.

An octagon-shaped balcony overlooked the entrance hall, with a similarly shaped skylight above.

The second floor housed Frederick and Louise's bedrooms, as well as her dressing room and several guest rooms.

In the winter months, when the Vanderbilts spent time in their New York City townhouse, the home's furniture was covered with linens.

When I visited in January, the guest bedrooms were staged to appear the way they would have at that time of year. It took servants weeks to cover and uncover every item in the home with custom-made sheets.

Louise's bed was surrounded by a railing, as was often the case in royal bedchambers in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries.

In European palaces, railings around royal beds were utilized during daily ceremonies when a monarch woke up or during royal births. In Louise's bedroom, the railing was merely a decorative homage to the French architecture she loved.

Her room connected to Frederick's through an adjoining door. Frederick's room was closed for restoration when I visited.

We concluded the tour in the basement, where servants would prepare the Vanderbilts' meals in the kitchen.

The basement is also where servants stored the estate's wine and spirits, did laundry, and brought food up to the ground floor through a dumbwaiter.

The mansion employed 18 servants total.

Stepping out onto the grounds of the mansion, I could see why the Vanderbilts relished their seasonal country home.

The mansion is situated on 153 acres of land in the scenic Hudson Valley.

As our tour guide put it, "It's like they get to live in a beautiful landscape painting whenever they wish."

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The World’s Biggest Bounce House Returns to the Region This Month

The 24,000-square-foot attraction features giant slides, ball pits, basketball hoops, and a DJ.

By Michele Kettner May 9, 2024

We hope you’ve been working on your stamina because you’ll need it when you visit The Big Bounce America ’s touring inflatable attractions.

The tour stops at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, Maryland from May 25 to June 8. Each ticket provides three hours of fun across five inflatable sections: The World’s Biggest Bounce House, The Giant, Air Space, Sports Slam, and OctoBlast. 

If you’ve been before, you’ll notice an upgrade to The World’s Biggest Bounce House, which is now 24,000 square feet. This is also the only attraction with dedicated entry time, the other inflatables are open for unlimited play during your three-hour session. 

New this year is the OctoBlast, which combines bouncing with foam for an unforgettable experience. The attraction is fitted with foam cannons and a live DJ, making it the place to be for a mid-day dance break.

Limited dates remain, so grab your tickets early. Tickets start at $22 for toddlers (3 and younger), $38 for juniors (7 and younger), $38 for bigger kids (15 and younger), and $45 for adults only (16 and older). Parents and caretakers who accompany children but don’t bounce on the inflatables can request a free ticket.

If you can’t make it to the Washington, DC, sessions, The Big Bounce America tour stops in Virginia Beach from June 14 to 16 and Baltimore starting August 17. 6336 Rosecroft Dr., Fort Washington, Maryland

Feature image courtesy The Big Bounce America

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Money blog: Major free childcare change kicks in today as parents of younger children can now apply

From today, eligible parents of children from nine-months-old in England can register for 15 free hours of childcare per week. Read this and the rest of our Weekend Money features, and leave a comment, and we'll be back with rolling personal finance and consumer news on Monday.

Sunday 12 May 2024 11:59, UK

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From Sunday, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old in England will be able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

This will then be granted from September. 

Check if you're eligible  here  - or read on for our explainer on free childcare across the UK.

Three and four year olds

In England, all parents of children aged three and four in England can claim 15 hours of free childcare per week, for 1,140 hours (38 weeks) a year, at an approved provider.

This is a universal offer open to all.

It can be extended to 30 hours where both parents (or the sole parent) are in work, earn the weekly minimum equivalent of 16 hours at the national minimum or living wage, and have an income of less than £100,000 per year.

Two year olds

Previously, only parents in receipt of certain benefits were eligible for 15 hours of free childcare.

But, as of last month, this was extended to working parents.

This is not a universal offer, however.

A working parent must earn more than £8,670 but less than £100,000 per year. For couples, the rule applies to both parents.

Nine months old

In September, this same 15-hour offer will be extended to working parents of children aged from nine months. From 12 May, those whose children will be at least nine months old on 31 August can apply to received the 15 hours of care from September.

From September 2025

The final change to the childcare offer in England will be rolled out in September 2025, when eligible working parents of all children under the age of five will be able to claim 30 hours of free childcare a week.

In some areas of Wales, the Flying Start early years programme offers 12.5 hours of free childcare for 39 weeks, for eligible children aged two to three. The scheme is based on your postcode area, though it is currently being expanded.

All three and four-year-olds are entitled to free early education of 10 hours per week in approved settings during term time under the Welsh government's childcare offer.

Some children of this age are entitled to up to 30 hours per week of free early education and childcare over 48 weeks of the year. The hours can be split - but at least 10 need to be used on early education.

To qualify for this, each parent must earn less than £100,000 per year, be employed and earn at least the equivalent of working 16 hours a week at the national minimum wage, or be enrolled on an undergraduate, postgraduate or further education course that is at least 10 weeks in length.

All three and four-year-olds living in Scotland are entitled to at least 1,140 hours per year of free childcare, with no work or earnings requirements for parents. 

This is usually taken as 30 hours per week over term time (38 weeks), though each provider will have their own approach.

Some households can claim free childcare for two-year-olds. To be eligible you have to be claiming certain benefits such as Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance or Universal Credit, or have a child that is in the care of their local council or living with you under a guardianship order or kinship care order.

Northern Ireland

There is no scheme for free childcare in Northern Ireland. Some other limited support is available.

Working parents can access support from UK-wide schemes such as tax credits, Universal Credit, childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare.

Aside from this, all parents of children aged three or four can apply for at least 12.5 hours a week of funded pre-school education during term time. But over 90% of three-year-olds have a funded pre-school place - and of course this is different to childcare.

What other help could I be eligible for?

Tax-free childcare  - Working parents in the UK can claim up to £500 every three months (up to £2,000 a year) for each of their children to help with childcare costs. 

If the child is disabled, the amount goes up to £1,000 every three months (up to £4,000 a year).

To claim the benefit, parents will need to open a tax-free childcare account online. For every 80p paid into the account, the government will top it up by 20p.

The scheme is available until the September after the child turns 11.

Universal credit  - Working families on universal credit can claim back up to 85% of their monthly childcare costs, as long as the care is paid for upfront. The most you can claim per month is £951 for one child or £1,630 for two or more children.

Tax credits -  People claiming working tax credit can get up to 70% of what they pay for childcare if their costs are no more than £175 per week for one child or £300 per work for multiple children.

By Jess Sharp , Money team 

Money saving trends are constantly popping up on social media - but one in particular has been gaining huge amounts of attention.

Created accidentally by a comedian, loud budgeting is breaking down the taboo of speaking about money.

The idea is based on being firmer/more vocal about your financial boundaries in social situations and setting out what you are happy to spend your money on, instead of "Keeping up with the Joneses". 

On TikTok alone, videos published under the hashtag #loudbudgeting have garnered more than 30 million views - and that figure is continuing to climb. 

We spoke to Lukas Battle - the 26-year-old who unintentionally created the trend as part of a comedy sketch. 

Based in New York, he came up with the term in a skit about the "quiet luxury" hype, which had spread online in 2023 inspired by shows like Succession. 

The term was used for humble bragging about your wealth with expensive items that were subtle in their design - for example, Gwyneth Paltrow's  £3,900 moss green wool coat from The Row, which she wore during her ski resort trial...

"I was never a big fan of the quiet luxury trend, so I just kind of switched the words and wrote 'loud budgeting is in'. I'm tired of spending money and I don't want to pretend to be rich," Lukas said. 

"That's how it started and then the TikTok comments were just obsessed with that original idea." 

This was the first time he mentioned it...

Lukas explained that it wasn't about "being poor" but about not being afraid of sharing your financial limits and "what's profitable for you personally". 

"It's not 'skip a coffee a day and you'll become a millionaire'."

While talking money has been seen as rude or taboo, he said it's something his generation is more comfortable doing. 

"I've seen more debate around the topic and I think people are really intrigued and attracted by the idea," he said. 

"It's just focusing your spending and time on things you enjoy and cutting out the things you might feel pressured to spend your money on."  

He has incorporated loud budgeting into his own life, telling his friends "it's free to go outside" and opting for cheaper dinner alternatives.

"Having the terminology and knowing it's a trend helps people understand it and there's no awkward conversation around it," he said. 

The trend has been a big hit with so-called American "finfluencers", or "financial influencers", but people in the UK have started practising it as well. 

Mia Westrap has taken up loud budgeting by embarking on a no-buy year and sharing her finances with her 11.3k TikTok followers. 

Earning roughly £2,100 a month, she spends around £1,200 on essentials, like rent, petrol and car insurance, but limits what else she can purchase. 

Clothes, fizzy drinks, beauty treatments, makeup, dinners out and train tickets are just some things on her "red list". 

The 26-year-old PHD student first came across the idea back in 2017, but decided to take up the challenge this year after realising she was living "pay check to pay check". 

She said her "biggest fear" in the beginning was that her friends wouldn't understand what she was doing, but she found loud budgeting helped. 

"I'm still trying my best to just go along with what everyone wants to do but I just won't spend money while we do it and my friends don't mind that, we don't make a big deal out of it," she said. 

So far, she has been able to save £1,700, and she said talking openly about her money has been "really helpful". 

"There's no way I could have got this far if I wasn't baring my soul to the internet about the money I have spent. It has been a really motivating factor."

Financial expert John Webb said loud budgeting has the ability to help many "feel empowered" and create a "more realistic" relationship with money.

"This is helping to normalise having open and honest conversations about finances," the consumer affair manager at Experien said. 

"It can also reduce the anxiety some might have by keeping their financial worries to themselves." 

However, he warned it's important to be cautious and to take the reality of life into consideration. 

"It could cause troubles within friendship groups if they're not on the same page as you or have different financial goals," he said.

"This challenge isn't meant to stop you from having fun, but it is designed to help people become more conscious and intentional when it comes to money, and reduce the stigma around talking about it." 

Rightmove's keyword tool shows Victorian-era houses are the most commonly searched period properties, with people drawn to their ornate designs and features.

Georgian and Edwardian-style are second and third respectively, followed by Tudor properties. Regency ranked in fifth place.

Rightmove property expert Tim Bannister said: "Home hunters continue to be captivated by the character and charm of properties that we see in period dramas.

"Victorian homes remain particularly popular, characterised by their historic charm, solid construction, and spacious interiors. You'll often find Victorian houses in some of the most desirable locations which include convenient access to schools and transport links."

Throughout the week Money blog readers have shared their thoughts on the stories we've been covering, with the most correspondence coming in on...

• A hotly contested debate on the best brand of tea
• Downsizing homes
• The cost of Michelin-starred food

Job interview mistakes

On Wednesday we reported on a new £12m ad from PG Tips in response to it falling behind rivals such as Twinings, Yorkshire Tea and Tetley....

We had lots of comments like this...

How on earth was the PG Tips advert so expensive? I prefer Tetley tea, PG Tips is never strong enough flavour for me. Shellyleppard

The reason for the sales drop with PG Tips could be because they increased the price and reduced the quantity of bags from 240 to 180 - it's obvious. Royston

And then this question which we've tried to answer below...

Why have PG Tips changed from Pyramid shape tea bags, to a square? Sam

Last year PG Tips said it was changing to a square bag that left more room for leaves to infuse, as the bags wouldn't fold over themselves.

We reported on data showing how downsizing could save you money for retirement - more than £400,000, in some regions, by swapping four beds for two.

Some of our readers shared their experiences...

We are downsizing and moving South so it's costing us £100k extra for a smaller place, all money from retirement fund. AlanNorth

Interesting read about downsizing for retirement. We recently did this to have the means to retire early at 52. However, we bought a house in the south of France for the price of a flat in our town in West Sussex. Now living the dream! OliSarah

How much should we pay for food?

Executive chef at London's two-Michelin-starred Ikoyi, Jeremy Chan, raised eyebrows when he suggested to the Money blog that Britons don't pay enough for restaurant food.

Ikoyi, the 35th best restaurant in the world, charges £320 for its tasting menu. 

"I don't think people pay enough money for food, I think we charge too little, [but] we want to always be accessible to as many people as possible, we're always trying our best to do that," he said, in a piece about his restaurant's tie up with Uber Eats... 

We had this in... 

Are they serious? That is two weeks' worth of food shopping for me, if the rich can afford this "tasting menu" then they need to be taxed even more by the government, it's just crazy! Steve T

If the rate of pay is proportionate to the vastly overpriced costs of the double Michelin star menu, I would gladly peel quail eggs for four-hour stints over continuing to be abused as a UK supply teacher. AndrewWard

Does this two-star Michelin star chef live in the real world? Who gives a toss if he stands and peels his quails eggs for four hours, and he can get the best turbot from the fishmonger fresh on a daily basis? It doesn't justify the outrageous price he is charging for his tasting menu. Topaztraveller

Chefs do make me laugh, a steak is just a steak, they don't make the meat! They just cook it like the rest of us, but we eat out because we can't be bothered cooking! StevieGrah

Finally, many of you reacted to this feature on common mistakes in job interviews...

Those 10 biggest mistakes people make in interviews is the dumbest thing I've ever read. They expect all that and they'll be offering a £25k a year job. Why wouldn't I want to know about benefits and basic sick pay? And also a limp handshake? How's that relevant to how you work? Jre90

Others brought their own tips...

Whenever I go for an interview I stick to three points: 1. Be yourself 2. Own the interview 3. Wear the clothes that match the job you are applying Kevin James Blakey

Two big economic moments dominated the news agenda in Money this week - interest rates and GDP.

As expected, the Bank of England held the base rate at 5.25% on Wednesday - but a shift in language was instructive about what may happen next.

Bank governor Andrew Bailey opened the door to a summer cut to 5%, telling reporters that an easing of rates at the next Monetary Policy Committee meeting on 20 June was neither ruled out nor a fait accompli.

More surprisingly, he suggested that rate cuts, when they start, could go deeper "than currently priced into market rates".

He refused to be drawn on what that path might look like - but markets had thought rates could bottom out at 4.5% or 4.75% this year, and potentially 3.5% or 4% next.

"To make sure that inflation stays around the 2% target - that inflation will neither be too high nor too low - it's likely that we will need to cut Bank rate over the coming quarters and make monetary policy somewhat less restrictive over the forecast period," Mr Bailey said.

You can read economics editor Ed Conway's analysis of the Bank's decision here ...

On Friday we discovered the UK is no longer in recession.

Gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.6% between January and March, the Office for National Statistics said.

This followed two consecutive quarters of the economy shrinking.

The data was more positive than anticipated.

"Britain is not just out of recession," wrote Conway. "It is out of recession with a bang."

The UK has seen its fastest growth since the tailend of the pandemic - and Conway picked out three other reasons for optimism.

1/ An economic growth rate of 0.6% is near enough to what economists used to call "trend growth". It's the kind of number that signifies the economy growing at more or less "normal" rates.

2/ 0.6% means the UK is, alongside Canada, the fastest-growing economy in the G7 (we've yet to hear from Japan, but economists expect its economy to contract in the first quarter).

3/ Third, it's not just gross domestic product that's up. So too is gross domestic product per head - the number you get when you divide our national income by every person in the country. After seven years without any growth, GDP per head rose by 0.4% in the first quarter.

GDP per head is a more accurate yardstick for the "feelgood factor", said Conway - perhaps meaning people will finally start to feel better off.

For more on where Friday's figures leaves us, listen to an Ian King Business Podcast special...

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money .

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

If you've missed any of the features we've been running in Money this year, or want to check back on something you've previously seen in the blog, this archive of our most popular articles may help...

Loaves of bread have been recalled from shelves in Japan after they were found to contain the remains of a rat.

Production of the bread in Tokyo has been halted after parts of a "small animal" were found by at least two people.

Pasco Shikishima Corp, which produces the bread, said 104,000 packages have been recalled as it apologised and promised compensation.

A company representative told Sky News's US partner network, NBC News, that a "small black rat" was found in the bread. No customers were reported to have fallen ill as a result of ingesting the contaminated bread.

"We deeply apologise for the serious inconvenience and trouble this has caused to our customers, suppliers, and other concerned parties," the spokesman said.

Pasco added in a separate statement that "we will do our utmost to strengthen our quality controls so that this will never happen again. We ask for your understanding and your co-operation."

Japanese media reports said at least two people who bought the bread in the Gunma prefecture, north-west of Tokyo, complained to the company about finding a rodent in the bread.

Record levels of shoplifting appear to be declining as fewer shopkeepers reported thefts last year, new figures show. 

A survey by the Office for National Statistics shows 26% of retailers experienced customer theft in 2023, down from a record high of 28% in 2022.

This comes despite a number of reports suggesting shoplifting is becoming more frequent. 

A  separate ONS finding , which used police crime data, showed reports of shoplifting were at their highest level in 20 years in 2023, with law enforcements logging 430,000 instances of the crime.

Let's get you up to speed on the biggest business news of the past 24 hours. 

A privately owned used-car platform is circling Cazoo Group, its stricken US-listed rival, which is on the brink of administration.

Sky News has learnt that Motors.co.uk is a leading contender to acquire Cazoo's marketplace operation, which would include its brand and intellectual property assets.

The process to auction the used-car platform's constituent parts comes after it spent tens of millions of pounds on sponsorship deals in football, snooker and darts in a rapid attempt to gain market share.

The owner of British Airways has reported a sharp rise in profits amid soaring demand for trips and a fall in the cost of fuel.

International Airlines Group said its operating profit for the first three months of the year was €68m (£58.5m) - above expectations and up from €9m (£7.7m) during the same period in 2023.

The company, which also owns Aer Lingus, Iberia and Vueling, said earnings had soared thanks to strong demand, particularly over the Easter holidays.

The prospect of a strike across Tata Steel's UK operations has gained further traction after a key union secured support for industrial action.

Community, which has more than 3,000 members, said 85% voted in favour of fighting the India-owned company's plans for up to 2,800 job losses, the majority of them at the country's biggest steelworks in Port Talbot, South Wales.

Tata confirmed last month it was to press ahead with the closure of the blast furnaces at the plant, replacing them with electric arc furnaces to reduce emissions and costs.

In doing so, the company rejected an alternative plan put forward by the Community, GMB and Unite unions that, they said, would raise productivity and protect jobs across the supply chain.

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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