6 iconic private residences in India that feel larger than life

India has some of the private addresses (let’s call them tourist attractions!) which are more than just homes. The space we are talking about comes from power, taste, and age of inspiration. These houses are often designed far beyond one generation. It’s unique, it screams luxury, it’s a spectacle, and calling them a tourist attraction won’t be incorrect! Well we are talking about India’s largest residences which have been creating buzz for the stories they hold within their walls. These are not just expansive architectures which can be measured in square footage, these are artistic architectural beauties.

From centuries-old private royal palaces to unique modern mansions made, there are several Indian homes that reflect the country’s ever changing design. Some draw from European influences, others celebrate traditional structures; but all are united with a great intention. Here is a curated list of six such extraordinary Indian homes, each spanning well over 15,000 square feet. You’ll be shocked and inspired at the same time! Read on

Antilia needs no introduction. It’s the home of the world’s one of the richest families, the Ambanis. It is arguably India’s most famous private residence which is built on Altamount Road in South Mumbai. It is a 27-storey skyscraper mansion, which was completed in 2010. For normal people an idea of “home” is usually pretty gardens or balconies, but Antilia defies convention. It’s vertical! Spread roughly 400,000 sq ft, the home is a small town in itself. The amenities include a 168-car garage, a number of swimming pools, a private theatre, a spa, and what not. Think of a space and it’s right inside there. The home was designed by the Chicago-based firm Perkins & Will and holds a significant spot on Mumbai’s tourist attractions list.

To understand what old royal wealth looks like, visit Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. This historic palace “home” was constructed between 1929 and 1943. Maharaja Umaid Singh’s family live here. Today, the palace is among the world’s largest private residences which is still occupied by a royal family. There are 347 rooms here. A part of the palace now operates as a luxury hotel and museum. But this whole place shows a perfect blend of Indian craftsmanship and colonial beauty. Today, Maharaja Gaj Singh’s family lives here and takes care of the royal residence.

Lakshmi Vilas Palace might not be our traditional definition of a “house,” but the palace in Vadodara, Gujarat is among the largest private residences ever built in India. It was built in 1890 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. It’s a grand property that reportedly is four times the size of Buckingham Palace! It is built on a 500-acre compound and is home to gardens and museums. It remains the residence of the Gaekwad family.

Oaklane Villa is situated in the heart of Delhi. It is a modern residential villa which reimagines classical European beauty. The private residence is spread across 17,800 sq ft. The exterior looks like a French chateau. Oaklane Villa is a perfect example of how contemporary Indian homes can speak global language without compromising on their roots. The house has a timeless charm!

You must have noticed that most entries on this list are luxury homes, but Dhanraj Mahal in Mumbai is little different. This Art-Deco residential palace was constructed in the mid-1930s for the Dhanrajgir family and remains one of the most lavish private residences in the country. It is situated close to the iconic Gateway of India. The residence features curved Deco lines, and a courtyard. It remains an elite home of the pre-independence era and that’s what makes it worthy of mention!