If you have ever spent a Sunday night curled up on the couch watching The Real Housewives of New Jersey, you know that the drama isn’t the only thing that’s oversized. The homes are characters in their own right. For years, we watched Melissa and Joe Gorga navigate life in their massive Montville estate, but in 2022, everything changed. The couple decided to trade in their old-world Italian style for something fresh, modern, and completely custom.
The Melissa Gorga house in Franklin Lakes is more than just a place to sleep; it is a testament to their journey in the spotlight and Joe’s skill as a developer. Moving from a stunning house that felt like a palace to a home that feels like a high-end boutique hotel was a bold move, and fans have been dying to see every inch of it. From the moment they moved in late 2022 to the final exterior reveal in 2023, the buzz hasn’t stopped.
Joe Gorga: The Man Behind the Build
One of the most impressive things about the Melissa Gorga house is that it truly is a family affair. Joe Gorga is a well-known New Jersey developer, and he took the lead on every aspect of the construction. This wasn’t a “buy it off the shelf” home. Every beam, every tile, and every window was hand-picked.
Joe’s goal was to create a home that felt modern but still had the “wow factor” that people expect from a Bravo star. He focused on high-end materials and a layout designed for a family that loves to host.
A Custom Masterpiece at 101 Jasmine Court
The couple bought the property for approximately $2.65 million and then invested heavily in the build. Joe used his expertise to ensure the home had top-tier structural integrity and finishes that would hold their value for decades.
Below is a quick look at how the new Franklin Lakes home compares to their previous Montville mansion:
Feature Montville Mansion, Franklin Lakes (Melissa Gorga House)
Total Square Footage ~Large Estate 9,500 sq ft
Bedrooms Multiple 5 Bedrooms
Bathrooms Multiple 6 Bathrooms
Lot Size 2.5 Acres 1 Acre
Style Italian/Ornate Modern Farmhouse/Glam
Key Highlight Gold Ceilings Double-Island Kitchen
As you can see, they might have traded some land, but they gained a massive amount of modern living space. The focus shifted from “more land” to “more luxury per square inch.”
Stepping Inside: The Exterior and Grand Entry
First impressions are everything, and the Melissa Gorga house does not disappoint. When you pull up to 101 Jasmine Court, you are greeted by a striking black-and-white facade. This “tuxedo” look is incredibly popular right now, and for good reason—it looks timeless and expensive.
In June 2023, Melissa revealed a major exterior renovation that included a new roof and updated windows, really making the house pop. The contrast between the white siding and the dark accents gives the home a sharp, clean look that stands out in the neighborhood.
Curb Appeal and Modern Facade
The curb appeal here is off the charts. The home features large, expansive windows that let in a ton of natural light. The front entrance is framed by beautiful landscaping that keeps the focus on the architecture.
What I love about the exterior is that it doesn’t try too hard. It’s grand because of its size and the quality of the materials, not because of over-the-top statues or fountains. It’s a sophisticated take on the modern mansion.
The Foyer: A Mix of Marble and Warmth
Once you step through the front doors, you are in the grand foyer. This is where the “glam” really starts to show. The floors are a stunning, shiny marble, but Joe and Melissa were brilliant—they mixed in wood elements to keep the space from feeling too cold or clinical.
The foyer features a sweeping staircase that acts as a focal point. It’s the kind of entryway designed for “outfit of the day” photos and grand entrances before a big party. You can immediately feel the flow of the house, with the foyer leading directly into the main entertaining zones.
The Heart of the Home: Kitchen and Entertaining
If you ask Melissa what her favorite part of the house is, she will likely tell you it’s the kitchen. In fact, she has gone on record saying that a “big kitchen” was her number one request during the design phase. And boy, did Joe deliver!
The kitchen in the Melissa Gorga house is a masterclass in luxury design. It is massive, bright, and filled with high-end appliances that would make a professional chef jealous.
The Dream Kitchen with Double Islands
The most talked-about feature of the kitchen is the double island. Why have one island when you can have two? Both islands are topped with gorgeous white marble, providing plenty of space for meal prep on one and casual dining on the other.
The cabinetry is fluted, adding a subtle texture that catches the light beautifully. The counters are made of durable quartz, and the backsplash is seamless marble. To top it all off, there is a large wine fridge and a cozy breakfast nook where the family can gather for morning coffee.
Bars and Dining for the Ultimate Host
Melissa loves to host, and the house is built for it. Adjacent to the kitchen is a chic bar area where guests can grab a drink without getting in the way of the cooking. The dining room is located near the entry and features a “sexy” vibe with a stunning chandelier and dark, moody accents.
Key Kitchen & Dining Features:
- Two Marble Islands: Perfect for large gatherings.
- Quartz Countertops: Combining beauty with durability.
- Nautical-Chic Vibes: A nod to their love for the Jersey Shore.
- Entertainer’s Layout: Open flow between the kitchen, bar, and dining areas.
Can you imagine hosting a holiday dinner here? The space is designed to feel open and airy, allowing people to move freely from the kitchen to the living areas.
Living Large: The Main Living Areas
The main living areas of the Melissa Gorga house strike a balance between high-end luxury and everyday comfort. While the home is huge, the rooms are designed to feel intimate enough for a family of five.
The Great Room and Family Comfort
The great room is a two-story space that flows directly from the kitchen. A massive fireplace anchors it and features neutral tones—whites, creams, and soft greys. This palette makes the room feel even larger than it is, while the plush furniture invites you to actually sit down and relax.
Despite the high ceilings, the room doesn’t feel cavernous. The use of chandeliers and clever lighting helps to “lower” the visual height, making it feel cozy for a movie night with the kids.
The Glam Room and Primary Suite
We can’t talk about Melissa Gorga without mentioning her glam room. This is a dedicated suite equipped with a full salon station, vanity, and hair station. It’s where Melissa gets ready for filming and events, and it is every bit as luxurious as you’d imagine.
The primary bedroom is another standout. Melissa described the vibe as “1920s-inspired.” It features custom lighting, a built-in fireplace, and fluted walls that match the kitchen cabinetry. But the real star is the closet. It is a color-coded dream, with specific sections for her designer handbags and shoes. It’s organized to perfection!
Basement Perks and Luxury Amenities
When you have 9,500 square feet to work with, you can afford to have some fun. The basement of the Melissa Gorga house is where the family really lets loose. It’s not just storage; it’s a full-on entertainment hub.
The Ultimate Man Cave and Fitness Zone
Joe Gorga needs his space, too, and the basement features a poker room and a private gym. The gym is fully equipped with heavy weights and cardio equipment, allowing the couple to maintain their fitness routines without leaving the house.
There is also a “kid hangout” area in the basement. As the Gorga children get older, having a dedicated space for them to hang out with friends is a huge plus. It keeps the noise downstairs while the adults enjoy the main floor.
Creative Spaces: Podcasts and Movies
The Gorgases are also entrepreneurs. The house includes a dedicated recording space where Melissa can record her popular podcast, On Display. Having a professional-grade studio in the home makes it easy for her to balance work and family life.
Additionally, they drew inspiration from their old home by including a movie theater and a billiards area. Whether it’s a family movie night or a competitive game of pool, there is never a dull moment in this house.
Fun Zones in the Mansion:
- Private Gym: For those intense family workouts.
- Podcast Studio: Where the magic happens for Melissa’s show.
- Poker Room: Joe’s favorite spot for a “guys’ night.”
- Movie Theater: The ultimate spot for relaxing.
The Outdoor Oasis: Resort Living in NJ
If the inside of the Melissa Gorga house is impressive, the outside is a total showstopper. Melissa has often said that the backyard is her “happy place,” and it’s easy to see why. They have created a resort-style oasis right in Franklin Lakes.
Poolside Perfection
The centerpiece of the backyard is a massive pool. It’s not just any pool, though. It features built-in waterfalls that provide a soothing soundtrack to their summer afternoons. “Hearing the waterfalls is my favorite part,” Melissa has shared with her followers.
Surrounding the pool are luxury cabanas, sleek lounge chairs, and several fire pits. It feels like a high-end beach club in the Mediterranean. It’s the perfect setting for those legendary RHONJ pool parties we see on TV.
Al Fresco Entertaining
The outdoor space also includes a covered patio with its own fireplace and a full BBQ station. This allows the family to eat outside even when the weather isn’t perfect. The indoor-outdoor flow is seamless, thanks to massive sliding glass doors that connect the main living area to the porch.
Imagine sitting by the outdoor fire pit on a cool Jersey evening, looking back at the mansion’s glowing lights. It’s genuinely the dream lifestyle.
Design Secrets and Personal Touches
What makes the Melissa Gorga house stand out from other celebrity mansions is the attention to detail. Melissa was heavily involved in the design process, and her personal style is evident in every room.
She opted for a “Hollywood Regency” style in the primary suite, which blends glamour with classic lines. Throughout the house, you’ll notice a recurring theme of bright neutrals mixed with rich textures like marble and velvet.
Another personal touch is the nod to their Jersey Shore house. You can see a bit of that nautical, airy flair in the kitchen and the outdoor spaces. It’s a way to bring their love of the beach into their primary residence.
The organization is also key. From the color-coded closet to the perfectly staged pantry, everything has a place. This sense of order helps such a large house feel manageable and lived-in rather than just a museum of expensive things.
Why the Melissa Gorga House Captivates Fans
So, why are we all so obsessed with the Melissa Gorga house? I think it’s because it represents a “glow-up.” We’ve followed Melissa and Joe for over a decade. We saw them in the heavy, dark mansion of the early 2010s, and seeing them in this bright, modern space feels like a reflection of how they’ve grown.
The house is also an entertaining hub. Fans love seeing the RHONJ cast gather in these spaces. Whether it’s a tense dinner party or a fun celebration, the house provides the perfect backdrop for the drama we love.
Furthermore, the real estate value in Franklin Lakes is incredible. By building this home from scratch, Joe and Melissa have created a significant asset. It’s a beautiful example of how luxury real estate can be both a home and a wise investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Melissa Gorga’s house?
The house is located in the prestigious neighborhood of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, specifically at 101 Jasmine Court.
How big is the Melissa Gorga house?
The mansion spans approximately 9,500 square feet and features 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms.
Did Joe Gorga build the house himself?
Yes! Joe Gorga is a professional developer, and he custom-built the home from the ground up to fit his family’s specific needs.
Can you take a tour of the house?
While the home is a private residence, Melissa has shared many virtual tours on her social media and through segments on Open House TV and Bravo.
What is the style of the home?
The home is a blend of Modern Farmhouse and Hollywood Glam, featuring a chic black-and-white exterior and high-end marble finishes inside.
Where Does Melissa Gorga Currently Live?
Melissa Gorga lives in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey.
Melissa Gorga’s House Photos
