Luxurious estates have long fascinated people around the globe. These grand architectural wonders, ranging from vast mansions to lavish palaces, showcase the immense wealth and opulence of their owners. This article delves into the top 10 largest houses in the world, where the square footage is astonishing, and luxury is limitless.
Which is the Largest House in the World?
Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s most extensive residential palace, functions as the official residence for the Sultan of Brunei, his family, and esteemed guests. Designed by Filipino architect Leandro Locsin, the palace showcases a fusion of Malay and Islamic architectural elements, creating a grand and palatial aesthetic. This lavish residence boasts an astonishing 1,788 rooms, featuring amenities such as air-conditioned stables for the sultan’s 200 polo ponies, a mosque capable of hosting up to 5,000 people, and an expansive 110-car garage. As of 2024, Istana Nurul Iman retains its status as the biggest house in the world, embodying opulence and architectural grandeur.
Key Facts About the Largest House in the World
Here are the key facts related to largest house in the world, Istana Nurul Iman:
- Istana Nurul Iman Palace: The world’s largest house in 2023, the Istana Nurul Iman Palace in Brunei covers 2.15 million square feet and features over 1,700 rooms, including 257 bathrooms.
- Construction Cost: Completed in 1984, this extravagant palace cost approximately $1.4 billion to build, showcasing the immense wealth of its owner, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
- Grand Banquet Hall: The palace boasts a banquet hall capable of hosting up to 5,000 guests, emphasizing its opulence and ability to accommodate large-scale events.
- Religious Significance: A massive mosque within the palace can accommodate up to 1,500 worshippers, highlighting the religious and cultural aspects integrated into its design.
- Luxurious Amenities: With a 110-car garage, a stable for horses, and an air-conditioned space for exotic cars, the Istana Nurul Iman Palace combines luxury and functionality.
- Lush Surroundings: Surrounded by expansive gardens, including a botanical garden with rare orchids, a 200-foot swimming pool, and a helipad, the palace exemplifies regal living.
- Advanced Security: Equipped with state-of-the-art security systems and round-the-clock monitoring, the palace ensures the safety and privacy of its occupants.
- Official Functions Only: Despite its grandeur, the palace is primarily used for official functions and ceremonies, with the Sultan’s family residing in a separate, more modest palace.
- Symbol of Wealth and Power: The Istana Nurul Iman Palace serves as a symbol of Sultan Bolkiah’s immense wealth and political power, contributing to its status as one of the world’s most extravagant royal residences.
- Extravagant Yet Reserved: While extravagant in design and size, the palace remains reserved for specific occasions, adding an air of exclusivity to its already impressive stature.
List of Top-10 Biggest Houses in the World
Istana Nurul Iman Palace, located in Brunei with the area of 2,152,782 square kilometers, holds the title of the biggest house in the world, followed by Buckingham Palace, Antilia and Biltmore Estate.
Here is the list of top-10 biggest houses in the world:
Largest Houses in the World | ||||
S. No. | Houses | Location | Area (in sq. km) | Estimated Value |
1. | Istana Nurul Iman Palace | Brunei | 2,152,782 | $1.5 billion |
2. | Buckingham Palace | London, UK | 828,820 | $3.2 billion |
3. | Antilia | Mumbai, India | 400,000 | $1 billion – $2 billion |
4. | Biltmore Estate | Asheville, North Carolina, USA | 178,926 | $155 million |
5. | Safra Mansion | Sao Paulo, Brazil | 117,000 | $127 million |
6. | Fair Field | Sagaponack, New York State, USA | 110,000 | $249 million |
7. | Witanhurst | London, United Kingdom | 90,000 | $450 million |
8. | Versailles | Windermere, Florida, USA | 90,000 | $100 million |
9. | The Gemini Mansion | Manalapan, Palm Beach, Florida, USA | 85,000 | $173 million |
10. | Villa Leopolda | French Riviera, France | 80,000 | $750 million |
World’s Biggest House – Istana Nurul Iman Palace
- Location: Brunei
- Area: 2,152,782 sq.km
- Estimated Value: $1.5 billion
Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s largest residential palace, stands as the designated residence for the Sultan of Brunei, his family, and esteemed guests. Crafted by Filipino architect Leandro Locsin, the palace seamlessly blends elements of Malay and Islamic architecture, creating a majestic and palatial aesthetic. This opulent residence boasts an impressive 1,788 rooms, housing not only living spaces but also air-conditioned stables for the sultan’s 200 polo ponies, a mosque accommodating up to 5,000 people, and a vast 110-car garage, showcasing the extravagant lifestyle within its grand walls.
Second Largest House in the World – Buckingham Palace
- Location: London, UK
- Area: 828,820 sq. km
- Estimated Value: 3.2 billion
Buckingham Palace, an iconic symbol of royalty globally, stands as one of the grandest and largest residences. This Neoclassical marvel, serving as the official London residence for the United Kingdom’s monarchs since 1837, now functions as Queen Elizabeth‘s primary administrative hub. With an impressive total of 775 rooms, including renowned spaces like the opulent gilded white drawing room and the majestic throne room, the palace stands as the second-largest house in the world, embodying regal splendor and historical significance.
Third Biggest House in the World – Antilia
- Location: Mumbai, India
- Area: 400,000 sq. km
- Estimated Value: $1 -$2 billion
Antilia stands tall over the Mumbai skyline, ranking among the planet’s most extravagant and costly residences. Owned by business tycoon Mukesh Ambani, this 27-story residence is estimated to carry a price tag ranging from $1 to $2 billion. Crafted by Chicago-based architects Perkins and Will, the design incorporates features to withstand severe earthquakes, achieved by structuring each floor equivalent to the height of a two-story building. Antilia encompasses luxurious amenities including an exclusive ice cream parlor, a sprawling mega-temple, and a grand 50-person movie theater. As the third-largest house globally, it symbolizes opulence and innovation in architectural design.