6 Iconic Private Residences in India That Feel Larger Than Life
India boasts an array of private addresses that transcend the conventional definition of a home, evolving into veritable tourist attractions. These residences are not merely measured in square footage but are artistic architectural masterpieces that reflect power, refined taste, and timeless inspiration. Often designed to endure beyond a single generation, they stand as unique spectacles of luxury. From centuries-old royal palaces to avant-garde modern mansions, these homes mirror India's dynamic design evolution, blending European influences with traditional structures, all united by a grand vision. Here is a curated list of six such extraordinary Indian residences, each spanning well over 15,000 square feet, guaranteed to shock and inspire.
Antilia (Mumbai, Maharashtra)
Antilia requires no introduction as the home of one of the world's wealthiest families, the Ambanis. Arguably India's most famous private residence, this 27-storey skyscraper mansion on Altamount Road in South Mumbai was completed in 2010. Defying conventional notions of a home with gardens or balconies, Antilia rises vertically, sprawling across approximately 400,000 square feet—essentially a small town in itself. Its amenities include a 168-car garage, multiple swimming pools, a private theatre, and a spa, among countless others. Designed by the Chicago-based firm Perkins & Will, it holds a prominent spot on Mumbai's list of tourist attractions.
Umaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur, Rajasthan)
To witness the grandeur of historic royal wealth, visit Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Constructed between 1929 and 1943, this palace serves as the residence for Maharaja Umaid Singh's family and remains one of the world's largest private homes still occupied by royalty, boasting 347 rooms. Today, a portion operates as a luxury hotel and museum, showcasing a perfect blend of Indian craftsmanship and colonial elegance. The palace is meticulously maintained by Maharaja Gaj Singh's family, preserving its royal heritage.
Lakshmi Vilas Palace (Vadodara, Gujarat)
Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, Gujarat, may not fit the traditional definition of a "house," but it ranks among India's largest private residences ever built. Commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890, this grand property is reportedly four times the size of Buckingham Palace. Set within a 500-acre compound, it features expansive gardens and museums, continuing to serve as the residence for the Gaekwad family, embodying regal splendor.
Oaklane Villa (Delhi)
Oaklane Villa, nestled in the heart of Delhi, is a modern residential villa that reimagines classical European beauty. Spanning 17,800 square feet, its exterior resembles a French chateau, exemplifying how contemporary Indian homes can embrace a global aesthetic without forsaking their roots. This residence exudes a timeless charm, blending elegance with functionality.
Dhanraj Mahal (Mumbai, Maharashtra)
While most entries on this list epitomize luxury, Dhanraj Mahal in Mumbai offers a distinct allure. Constructed in the mid-1930s for the Dhanrajgir family, this Art-Deco residential palace remains one of India's most lavish private residences. Located near the iconic Gateway of India, it features curved Deco lines and a central courtyard, standing as an elite home from the pre-independence era, worthy of recognition for its historical and architectural significance.
These six residences not only showcase architectural brilliance but also narrate stories of India's rich cultural and historical tapestry, making them larger-than-life landmarks.
