Welcome to the extraordinary world of billionaire dream homes, where luxury meets innovation. Among these stunning residences, Bill Gates’ underwater house stands out as a marvel of modern architecture and technology. This home, known as Xanadu 2.0, is not just a place of dwelling; it embodies a vision of what a dream home can be.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Henry Gates III |
| Age | 69 years old (born October 28, 1955) |
| Net Worth | Approximately $113 billion as of 2025 |
| Current Residence | Xanadu 2.0, a 66,000-square-foot mansion located at 1835 73rd Ave NE, Medina, Washington, USA |
| Residence Value | Estimated at around $130 million (some sources say between $120 million and $130 million) |
| Residence Features | 7 bedrooms, 18 bathrooms, 6 kitchens, 6 fireplaces, a 60-foot swimming pool with underwater music system, a 2,500-square-foot gym, a 1,000-square-foot dining room, a private library, home automation with a central computer, garages for 23 cars, advanced security system, and outdoor sports courts |
| Property History | Purchased in 1988 for $2 million, renovated over 7 years with an estimated $63 million spent |
| Additional Info | Gates has no plans to downsize despite being divorced and living alone; his children still visit frequently; he also owns additional properties including a mansion in San Diego and Florida |
Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Washington in Medina, Washington, Xanadu 2.0 spans an impressive 66,000 square feet. It’s often considered one of the most technologically advanced and expensive homes globally, with a construction cost of approximately $63 million over seven years. At the heart of this luxurious estate is a unique feature: an underwater swimming pool that offers a glimpse into the innovative spirit of its owner.
Overview of Bill Gates’ House – Xanadu 2.0
Location and Size
Xanadu 2.0 is strategically located in Medina, Washington, providing breathtaking views of Lake Washington. The mansion itself boasts 66,000 square feet of living space, a size that offers ample room for luxurious living and entertaining.
Cost and Construction Timeline
This architectural masterpiece took seven years to build, with an estimated cost of $63 million. The commitment to quality and innovation is evident in every corner of this home.
Architectural Style
The architectural style of Xanadu 2.0 is best described as a Modern Pacific lodge. It seamlessly blends natural elements with high-tech features, creating a unique environment that is both inviting and impressive.
General Features
Xanadu 2.0 is replete with extraordinary features, including:
- 7 Bedrooms: Spacious and elegantly designed, offering comfort and luxury.
- 6 Kitchens: Equipped for any culinary endeavor, perfect for entertaining guests.
- 24 Bathrooms: Ensuring privacy and convenience for both family and visitors.
- 2,300 sq ft Reception Hall: Designed to accommodate 200 guests, complete with a massive video screen for entertainment.
- Library: Home to rare manuscripts, including Leonardo Da Vinci’s Codex Leicester.
- Environmental Design: Incorporates energy-efficient systems, including earth-sheltered sections for optimal climate control.
This blend of features sets the stage for the home’s unique underwater pool.
The Underwater Bill Gates House Feature: The 60-Foot Glass Swimming Pool
Detailed Description of the Pool
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| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Xanadu 2.0 |
| Location / Address | 1835 73rd Ave NE, Medina, Washington, USA |
| Size | Approximately 66,000 square feet (about 6,100 m²) |
| Architectural Style | Pacific Lodge Style, Earth-sheltered home |
| Architects | Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and Cutler-Anderson Architects (James Cutler principal architect) |
| Construction Period | Began in 1988, took about 7 years to complete |
| Construction Cost | Around $63 million |
| Current Estimated Worth | Valued between $124 million to $147.5 million; if sold today could earn over $145 million |
| Property Tax (2009) | Approximately $1.063 million |
| Bedrooms | 7 bedrooms |
| Bathrooms | 24 bathrooms (10 have bathtubs) |
| Kitchens | 6 kitchens |
| Reception Hall | Holds up to 200 guests, with a 22-foot video screen and 6-foot-wide limestone fireplace |
| Swimming Pool | 60-foot long indoor pool in a separate 3,900 sq ft building with glass wall allowing swimming to terrace; underwater sound system |
| Gym | 2,500 square feet |
| Dining Room | 1,000 square feet |
| Garages | Multiple garages including a special underground garage for 10 cars made of concrete and stainless steel |
| Special Features | – Estate-wide server system – Climate and lighting controlled by advanced sensor system with guest controls – Artificial stream with trout and salmon – $150,000 worth of digital art display screens – Collection of rare manuscripts including a Leonardo Da Vinci manuscript worth $8 million |
| Environmental Features | Earth-sheltered to maintain steady indoor temperature; tall trees planted for heat loss prevention |
| Architectural Highlights | Private library with a dome-shaped roof and oculus; blend of modern technology with natural landscaping |
| Design Inspiration / Name | Named “Xanadu 2.0” referencing the fictional palace in Citizen Kane and Kubla Khan poem |
One of the most captivating features of Xanadu 2.0 is its 60-foot-long underwater swimming pool. This stunning pool includes a unique glass wall, allowing swimmers to enjoy breathtaking views of the terrace above while submerged.
- Construction Specifics: The pool is enclosed within a 3,900 sq ft building section, providing a luxurious and serene environment.
- Underwater Music System: Imagine swimming while listening to your favorite tunes! The pool is equipped with a state-of-the-art underwater music system, enhancing the overall swimming experience.
- Design and Aesthetics: Featuring a fossil motif floor and crystal-clear water, the pool presents a tranquil and luxurious atmosphere.
Integration with Home Architecture
The pool’s design reflects a harmonious connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Swimmers can transition effortlessly between the two environments, enhancing the overall experience of relaxation and enjoyment.
Unique Experience
What makes this pool a dream feature compared to typical luxury pools? The combination of aesthetics, technology, and the unique underwater experience sets it apart. It’s more than just a swimming pool; it’s an experience that engages multiple senses.
The Tech Behind It
The technology integrated into the pool is impressive. It features:
- Sensors: Monitor water quality and temperature.
- Climate Controls: Ensure a comfortable environment year-round.
- Smart Lighting Adjustments: Create the perfect ambiance for any occasion.
This innovative pool exemplifies Bill Gates’ passion for blending nature, art, and technology.
Technology and Smart Features Inside the House
Estate-wide Server System
At the heart of Xanadu 2.0 is an estate-wide server system that controls various aspects of the home, including climate, lighting, and security. This intelligent setup allows for a seamless living experience.
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Guest Experience
The mansion is equipped with technology that personalizes the guest experience. Wearable sensors allow visitors to adjust their environment according to their preferences, from lighting to temperature.
Culinary Spaces
With multiple kitchens designed for various culinary experiences, the home integrates renewable resources, ensuring that cooking and dining are both luxurious and environmentally friendly.
Entertainment Amenities
Xanadu 2.0 is not short on entertainment options. Highlights include:
- 20-Seater Home Theater: A state-of-the-art space for cinematic experiences.
- Digital Art Displays: Rotating artworks showcased on $80,000 worth of digital screens, adding a contemporary touch to the home.
Sustainable Features
The estate boasts sustainable features, including artificial streams stocked with salmon and trout, which showcase Gates’ commitment to environmental conservation. Additionally, the underground garage is designed with artistic elements and modern materials, further enhancing the home’s unique character.
The Design Philosophy and Inspiration
Poetic and Cinematic Influences
The name “Xanadu 2.0” draws inspiration from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem “Kubla Khan” and the cinematic masterpiece “Citizen Kane.” This blend of literary and film influences reflects Gates’ appreciation for culture and creativity.
Modern Meets Classic
The design philosophy marries high-tech innovation with traditional Pacific Northwest style. This combination creates an inviting atmosphere that feels both contemporary and timeless.
Family-Centric Design
Gates emphasizes family and gathering in the design of Xanadu 2.0. Features such as a spacious reception hall and communal spaces promote togetherness and connection, showcasing his vision for a family legacy.
Eco-Friendly Choices
The architectural choices reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability. Energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials are thoughtfully integrated into the design, demonstrating a balance between luxury and responsibility.
Why Bill Gates’ Underwater House is Unique Among Billionaire Mansions
A Unique Blend of Luxury and Innovation
What sets Bill Gates’ underwater house apart from typical luxury mansions? It’s the fusion of art, technology, nature, and personalization that creates a truly unique living experience.
Innovative Technology for Sustainability
The innovative technology used in Xanadu 2.0 is not only about luxury; it also focuses on environmental sustainability. Gates’ commitment to green living is evident in every aspect of the home, from the underwater pool to the estate-wide server systems.
A Dream Home Defined
The underwater pool and other aquatic features elevate Xanadu 2.0 into the realm of a “dream home.” It’s a space that embodies both emotional and practical values. Despite recent trends toward downsizing, Gates values this estate highly for its innovation and personal significance.
Where Does Bill Gates Currently Live?
Bill Gates currently lives in his primary mansion located in Medina, Washington. This mansion, known as “Xanadu 2.0,” is situated on the shores of Lake Washington and comprises a massive 66,000-square-foot estate valued at approximately $130 million. The home features high-tech amenities, including an underwater music system in the pool, a trampoline room, a private library, multiple kitchens and bathrooms, a banquet hall, and advanced security systems. Gates has expressed that he has no plans to downsize from this “gigantic” mansion and enjoys hosting his children there when they visit.
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