Inside the Les Wexner House: A New Albany Landmark

Picture this: a 45,000-square-foot Georgian mansion sitting majestically on 336 acres of pristine Ohio countryside. This isn’t just any estate—it’s the Les Wexner house, one of the most remarkable private residences in America. With its 30 rooms, 50-car garage, and architectural grandeur that rivals European palaces, this New Albany landmark represents far more than just luxury living.

Les Wexner, the billionaire founder of L Brands (formerly The Limited), didn’t just build a house—he created an architectural masterpiece that has shaped the identity of New Albany, Ohio. As one of America’s most successful retail magnates, Wexner transformed a quiet farming community into one of the nation’s most exclusive suburbs, with his personal estate serving as its crown jewel.

But there’s more to this story than just luxury and opulence. The Les Wexner house has become a symbol of philanthropy, community development, and architectural innovation. It has hosted numerous charity events, influenced regional development, and sparked conversations about wealth, privacy, and social responsibility in modern America.

Background and Location of the Les Wexner House

The Heart of New Albany

Nestled in the rolling hills northeast of Columbus, Ohio, New Albany stands as one of America’s most prestigious suburban communities. This isn’t your typical suburb—it’s a carefully planned paradise where Georgian-style architecture meets Midwestern charm. And at its heart lies the most impressive residence of all: the Les Wexner estate.

The Les Wexner house occupies an astounding 336 acres along Kitzmiller Road, making it one of the largest private estates in Ohio. To put that in perspective, that’s roughly equivalent to 250 football fields! This massive property didn’t just happen by accident—it was the cornerstone of Wexner’s vision to transform New Albany from a sleepy farming village into a world-class community.

From Farmland to Fortune

When Les Wexner first discovered this area in the late 1980s, New Albany had fewer than 500 residents. The rolling farmland and peaceful countryside appealed to the retail mogul, who saw potential where others saw only corn fields. He began acquiring land, piece by piece, eventually assembling the massive estate that would become his family’s home.

Construction of the mansion began in 1990, during the height of Wexner’s business success. As the founder and CEO of The Limited (now L Brands), which included Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, and other retail giants, Wexner had the resources to create something truly extraordinary. He didn’t just build a house—he built a legacy.

A Family Estate with Purpose

The estate became home to Les Wexner, his wife Abigail, and their four children. But this wasn’t just a family retreat. From the outset, the Wexners envisioned their property as a community hub, hosting charitable events and supporting local causes.

The location itself was strategic. Close enough to Columbus for business convenience, yet far enough away to ensure privacy and tranquillity. The surrounding area of New Albany has since developed into a thriving community of over 10,000 residents, with the Wexner estate remaining as its most prominent landmark.

Shaping a Community

What makes the Les Wexner house truly remarkable isn’t just its size or luxury—it’s how it influenced an entire region. Wexner didn’t stop at building his own estate. He became the driving force behind New Albany’s development, establishing the New Albany Company to oversee the community’s growth and development.

His vision included:

• Architectural guidelines that ensured all buildings maintained a cohesive Georgian style
• Walking paths and green spaces that connect neighbourhoods
• Business parks that attracted major corporations
• Educational facilities , including top-rated schools

The estate itself set the standard for this development. Its Georgian-inspired design became the template for the entire community, creating a unique aesthetic that distinguishes New Albany from other Columbus suburbs.

Privacy Meets Prominence

Despite its prominence, the Les Wexner house maintains an air of mystery. The estate is completely private, hidden from public view by careful landscaping and security measures. This balance between visibility and privacy reflects Wexner’s approach to life—influential yet intensely private, prominent yet protected.

Architectural Design and Style

Georgian Grandeur Meets Modern Luxury

When you first glimpse the Les Wexner house, you’re immediately struck by its commanding presence. This isn’t just a big house—it’s an architectural statement that blends centuries-old design principles with contemporary luxury. The mansion’s Georgian-inspired architecture creates a sense of timeless elegance that feels both grand and welcoming.

The design philosophy behind this 45,000-square-foot masterpiece was simple yet ambitious: create a home that honours classical architectural traditions while incorporating every modern convenience imaginable. The result? A residence that looks like it could grace the English countryside yet functions with 21st-century sophistication.

You may also read (discover the legacy of dan quayles house today).

The Architectural Vision

While the specific architect remains somewhat private, the mansion bears all the hallmarks of world-class design. The Georgian style was chosen deliberately, reflecting both historical significance and aesthetic appeal. This architectural style, popularised in 18th-century Britain and colonial America, emphasises:

• Symmetrical facades that create visual balance
• Classical proportions based on mathematical ratios
• Red brick construction with white trim details
• Multi-pane windows arranged in perfect alignment
• Decorative crown moulding and cornices

But this isn’t a slavish recreation of historical architecture. The Les Wexner house takes these classical elements and scales them up dramatically, creating spaces that feel both intimate and monumental.

A Symphony in Brick and Stone

The exterior of the mansion showcases masterful craftsmanship at every turn. The red brick facade isn’t just any brick—each one was carefully selected and laid to create subtle patterns and textures. White limestone accents frame windows and doorways, creating a striking contrast that draws the eye upward.

The main entrance makes a lasting and unforgettable first impression. Towering columns support a classical pediment, creating a sense of arrival that’s both welcoming and awe-inspiring. The front door itself—a massive wooden creation with intricate carved details—hints at the treasures within.

30 Rooms of Refined Elegance

Inside, the mansion’s 30 rooms flow seamlessly from one to another, each space designed with a specific purpose in mind. The interior design work, including contributions from renowned designer John Stefanidis for the guest house, reflects a sophisticated blend of classical and contemporary elements.

Key architectural features include:

• Soaring ceilings that create a sense of spaciousness
• Intricate woodwork showcasing master craftsmanship
• Marble fireplaces serve as focal points in major rooms
• Custom millwork that adds character to every space
• Grand staircases that serve as sculptural elements

Light, Space, and Flow

One of the mansion’s most impressive features is its ability to handle natural light. Despite its massive size, the house never feels dark or oppressive. Large windows—each one a work of art in itself—flood the interiors with sunshine. The window placement was carefully calculated to capture light at different times of day, creating ever-changing moods throughout the house.

The floor plan demonstrates sophisticated spatial planning. Public spaces flow seamlessly into one another, making them perfect for entertaining large groups. Yet private family areas maintain their intimacy, creating cosy retreats within the larger structure. This dual nature—public grandeur and private comfort—defines the home’s character.

Materials That Tell a Story

Every material in the Les Wexner house was selected for both its beauty and durability. Hardwood floors, likely sourced from sustainable forests, provide warmth underfoot. Marble and granite surfaces add luxury while withstanding daily wear and tear. Custom metalwork on railings and fixtures showcases the artisanal skill of the craftsman.

The attention to detail extends to elements most visitors would never notice. HVAC systems are cleverly concealed to maintain clean sight lines. Modern technology integrates seamlessly with classical architecture. Even utilitarian spaces, such as the 50-car garage, maintain the estate’s high design standards.

Blending Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

The architectural design doesn’t stop at the mansion’s walls. Terraces, porticos, and covered walkways create transitional spaces that bridge the gap between the inside and outside. These areas, furnished as outdoor rooms, extend the home’s living space while maintaining its architectural integrity.

Large French doors and floor-to-ceiling windows blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, bringing the estate’s beautiful grounds into the home’s visual landscape. This connection to nature—a hallmark of great estate design—makes the massive structure feel grounded and organic despite its size.

A Living Work of Art

What sets the Les Wexner house apart from other luxury estates is its coherent design vision. Every element, from the largest structural component to the smallest decorative detail, works together to create a unified whole. This isn’t just a collection of expensive materials and fancy rooms—it’s a carefully orchestrated architectural symphony.

The mansion stands as a testament to what’s possible when unlimited resources meet impeccable taste. It demonstrates that modern construction can rival historical architecture in terms of beauty and craftsmanship. Most importantly, it indicates that a house—even one of this scale—can still feel like a home.

Unique Features of the Les Wexner House

Beyond Imagination: Amenities That Define Luxury

When we talk about the Les Wexner house, we’re not just discussing a large home—we’re exploring a self-contained universe of luxury amenities that most of us have only seen in movies. Each feature was carefully chosen not just for its wow factor, but for how it enhances the family’s daily life and entertainment capabilities.

Let’s explore the extraordinary features that make this estate truly unique among private residences in the United States.

The Ultimate Automotive Paradise

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping feature is the 50-car garage. Yes, you read that correctly—fifty cars! This isn’t just a parking structure; it’s a climate-controlled automotive gallery where each vehicle can be displayed like a work of art. The garage features:

• Individual bays with custom lighting for each vehicle
• Professional-grade car lifts for maintenance
• Temperature and humidity control to preserve valuable automobiles
• Separate washing and detailing stations
• Secured storage areas for automotive memorabilia

For car enthusiasts, this garage represents the ultimate dream space. Whether housing classic cars, modern supercars, or the family’s daily drivers, this facility rivals many commercial automotive museums.

Recreation and Wellness Wonderland

The mansion’s recreational facilities rival those of a five-star resort. At the heart of these features is the indoor swimming pool—but calling it just a pool doesn’t do it justice. This aquatic centre includes:

• Olympic-length swimming lanes for serious exercise
• Shallow areas are perfect for children and relaxation
• Hot tubs and spa features for therapeutic benefits
• Retractable roof sections that open to the sky
• Poolside lounging areas with resort-style furnishings

Adjacent to the pool, you’ll find a fully equipped gym that rivals any commercial fitness centre. This isn’t your basic home gym with a treadmill and some weights. We’re talking about:

• Professional-grade cardio equipment
• Complete weight training systems
• Dedicated yoga and pilates studios
• Personal training areas with specialised equipment
• Recovery zones with massage tables and therapy equipment

Entertainment Central

The entertainment options at the Les Wexner house could keep a family busy for years. The private bowling alley brings the fun of a night out right into the home. This isn’t a single-lane afterthought—it’s a regulation-size facility complete with:

• Multiple lanes for family tournaments
• Automatic scoring systems with custom displays
• Lounge seating for spectators
• Professional-grade lane maintenance equipment

The theatre room takes movie night to an entirely different level. Imagine having your own private cinema with:

• Stadium-style seating for dozens of guests
• State-of-the-art projection and sound systems
• Acoustic treatments rivalling commercial theatres
• Concession areas for authentic movie snacks
• Gaming capabilities for immersive entertainment

Beauty and Wellness Sanctuary

The estate’s beauty salon is more than just a room with a mirror and a chair. It’s a full-service facility where family members can enjoy:

• Professional styling stations with salon-grade equipment
• Manicure and pedicure areas with spa features
• Private treatment rooms for facials and massages
• Product storage rivalling high-end salons
• Natural lighting designed for accurate colour work

This private salon means never having to leave home for personal care services—the ultimate in convenience and privacy.

The Great Outdoors, Perfected

Step outside, and the amenities continue to amaze. The tennis court isn’t just a playing surface—it’s a professional-quality facility with:

• Tournament-standard surfaces maintained to perfection
• Professional lighting for evening play
• Viewing areas for spectators
• Equipment storage and changing facilities
• Multiple court options for different playing preferences

The equestrian facilities transform the estate into a horse lover’s paradise. These aren’t just a few stalls in a barn. We’re talking about:

• Olympic-quality riding arenas , both indoor and outdoor
• Specialised training areas for different disciplines
• Climate-controlled stables with individual stalls
• Veterinary facilities for on-site care
• Tack rooms organised like luxury closets
• Groom quarters for staff accommodation

Gardens That Inspire

The estate’s gardens and grounds are deserving of special mention. These aren’t just lawns and flower beds—they’re living works of art that include:

Garden Feature Description Purpose

Formal Gardens Geometrically designed beds with seasonal plantings create visual interest and classical beauty.

Walking Paths: Miles of paved and natural trails provide exercise and contemplation spaces.

Water Features: Fountains, ponds, and streams. Add movement and sound to the landscape.

Sculpture Gardens Curated outdoor art installations Blend culture with nature.

Kitchen Gardens : Organic vegetable and herb plots Supply fresh ingredients for the estate

The Guest House Experience

You may also read (inside eli mannings luxurious home a virtual tour).

The separate guest house deserves its own mention. Designed by renowned decorator John Stefanidis, this isn’t your typical mother-in-law suite. It’s a complete luxury residence featuring:

• Multiple bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms
• Full kitchen with professional appliances
• Living areas designed for extended stays
• Private entrances ensure guest privacy
• Garden views connecting to the main estate

Supporting Cast of Amenities

Beyond these headline features, the estate includes countless supporting amenities that make daily life effortless:

• Multiple kitchens , including a main kitchen, catering kitchen, and prep areas
• Wine cellars with thousand-bottle capacity and perfect climate control
• Library spaces with custom shelving for extensive collections
• Art galleries with museum-quality lighting and security
• Conference rooms for business meetings
• Gift-wrapping rooms for holiday preparations
• Flower-arranging rooms with refrigeration and work surfaces

Technology Meets Tradition

What’s remarkable about these features is how seamlessly technology integrates with the classical architecture. Smart home systems control everything from lighting and climate to security and entertainment. Yet these modern conveniences remain invisible, never detracting from the home’s timeless elegance.

The estate also prioritises sustainability despite its scale. Features like:

• Geothermal heating and cooling systems
• Solar panel arrays are discretely integrated into structures
• Rainwater collection for irrigation
• Energy-efficient lighting throughout

These amenities reflect more than just wealth—they represent a lifestyle philosophy where family time, health, entertainment, and hospitality are of paramount importance. Each feature serves a purpose, whether it’s bringing the family together in the bowling alley, maintaining fitness in the gym, or hosting charity events in the magnificent grounds.

Cultural and Community Significance

More Than a Mansion: A Community Cornerstone

The Les Wexner house stands as more than just a private residence—it has become a cultural landmark that has shaped New Albany’s identity and served as a beacon for philanthropy in central Ohio. While the gates remain closed to the public, the estate’s influence extends far beyond its 336-acre boundaries.

A Hub for Charitable Giving

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Les Wexner estate is its use as a platform for giving back. The property regularly hosts high-profile charity events that have raised millions of dollars for worthy causes. The crown jewel of these events is the Annual New Albany Classic Invitational Grand Prix.

This isn’t your typical charity fundraiser. The Grand Prix transforms the estate’s equestrian facilities into a world-class show jumping venue, attracting:

• Olympic-level riders from around the globe
• Thousands of spectators who get a rare glimpse of the grounds
• Corporate sponsors supporting the cause
• Local families are enjoying a unique community event

All proceeds benefit The Centre for Family Safety and Healing, an organisation close to the Wexner family’s heart. This single event has raised millions of dollars to support families affected by domestic violence, proving that luxury and social responsibility can go hand in hand.

Abigail Wexner’s Philanthropic Leadership

While Les Wexner built his business empire, his wife, Abigail, has become a philanthropic force in her own right. Her work with the Columbus Coalition Against Family Violence has transformed how the community addresses domestic abuse issues. The estate serves as more than just her home—it’s her headquarters for change.

Abigail’s initiatives include:

• Hosting strategy sessions with nonprofit leaders
• Organising fundraising galas in the estate’s gardens
• Providing meeting spaces for community organisations
• Opening the grounds for awareness campaigns

Her leadership demonstrates how private wealth can drive public good, with the estate serving as both a symbol and a tool for positive change.

Shaping New Albany’s Identity

The Les Wexner house has become synonymous with New Albany itself. When people think of this Columbus suburb, they inevitably think of the Wexner estate. This association has:

• Elevated property values throughout the community
• Attracted other successful families to the area
• Set architectural standards that define the town’s character
• Created a sense of prestige that benefits all residents

The estate’s Georgian architecture didn’t just influence a few nearby homes—it established the aesthetic blueprint for an entire community. Today, New Albany’s consistent architectural style, inspired by the Wexner house, makes it one of America’s most recognisable planned communities.

Economic Impact Beyond Measure

The estate’s presence has generated significant economic benefits for the region:

1. Employment opportunities – The estate employs dozens of staff members, from groundskeepers to security personnel
2. Local business support – Maintenance and events require services from local contractors, caterers, and suppliers
3. Tourism interest – While private, the estate draws architecture enthusiasts and increases area visibility
4. Tax revenue – Property taxes from the estate support local schools and services

A Symbol of American Success

In many ways, the Les Wexner house represents the American Dream writ large. Les Wexner, the son of Russian-Jewish immigrants, built a retail empire from a single store. His estate stands as a testament to what’s possible in America through hard work, vision, and determination.

This symbolism resonates throughout the community. Local schools use Wexner’s story as an inspiration for students. Business leaders point to his success as proof that Ohio can compete on the global stage. The estate itself becomes a physical manifestation of these possibilities.

Private Space, Public Impact

What makes the Les Wexner house unique among luxury estates is its ability to strike a balance between extreme privacy and public engagement. While you can’t tour the mansion or stroll the grounds, the estate’s influence is felt throughout the community:

• Architectural tours of New Albany reference the estate’s influence
• Local museums feature exhibits on the area’s development
• Community events benefit from the standard of excellence it sets
• Educational programs use it as a case study in urban planning

Cultural Conversations and Artistic Influence

The estate has also sparked important cultural conversations. Architecture critics debate its design merits. Sociologists examine what it says about American wealth. Artists find inspiration in its grandeur. These discussions enrich the cultural fabric of central Ohio.

The property has been featured in:

• Architectural journals analysing its design
• Business publications exploring Wexner’s success
• Philanthropic studies examining charitable giving models
• Urban planning courses as a development case study

Beyond Bricks and Mortar

Perhaps most importantly, the Les Wexner house has shown that great estates can still serve great purposes in modern America. In an era when many criticise wealth concentration, the Wexner estate demonstrates how private resources can benefit public causes.

The estate’s role in the community extends to:

• Inspiring other philanthropists to use their properties for charity
• Setting standards for corporate social responsibility
• Creating traditions like the Grand Prix that unite the community
• Demonstrating that luxury and service can coexist

This isn’t just a house where a wealthy family lives—it’s a community asset that happens to be privately owned. The distinction is crucial and explains why the Les Wexner house holds such a special place in New Albany’s heart.

Controversies and Public Perception

Navigating Complex Waters

No discussion of the Les Wexner house would be complete without acknowledging the controversies that have swirled around its owner. While the estate itself remains an architectural triumph, public perception has been colored by various controversies involving Les Wexner over the years.

Business Controversies and Their Shadow

Les Wexner’s business career, while remarkably successful, hasn’t been without its challenging moments. His long association with Jeffrey Epstein, who served as his financial advisor, has drawn significant scrutiny. This relationship has inevitably affected how some view the estate—not for its architectural merits, but for its association with controversy.

The public has grappled with complex questions:

• How do we separate the art from the artist?
• Can architectural beauty exist independently of its owner’s actions?
• What responsibility do landmarks have to their communities?

These aren’t easy questions, and different people arrive at different conclusions. What remains clear is that the estate itself—its design, its contribution to New Albany, its role in charitable events—exists separately from any individual controversy.

Architectural Debates: Grandeur vs. Excess

Even setting aside personal controversies, the Les Wexner house has sparked spirited architectural debates. Critics and enthusiasts have engaged in thoughtful discussions about:

Supporters argue that the estate:

• Represents excellence in Georgian revival architecture
• Demonstrates masterful craftsmanship rarely seen today
• Creates jobs and economic benefits for the region
• Sets high standards that elevate the entire community

Critics contend that it:

• Symbolises excessive wealth in an era of inequality
• Lacks architectural innovation, relying on historical styles
• Creates exclusivity that divides communities
• Represents resource consumption on a troubling scale

These debates are healthy and necessary. They help us think critically about architecture, wealth, and community values. The Les Wexner house serves as a lightning rod for these important conversations.

Media Coverage: A Double-Edged Sword

Media attention on the estate has been intense but mixed. Architectural publications praise its design excellence. Local media celebrate their charitable contributions. National outlets often focus on controversies. This varied coverage creates a complex public perception where the same property can be seen as:

• An architectural masterpiece worthy of study
• A symbol of excess in modern America
• A charitable venue supporting important causes
• A private fortress separating the wealthy from the community

Community Perspectives: A Range of Views

Within New Albany itself, opinions about the estate vary considerably. Longtime residents who have benefited from Wexner’s development efforts often view it positively. Newer arrivals might see it differently. Some common perspectives include:

The Grateful Neighbour: “The Wexners transformed our farming town into a beautiful community. Their estate anchors our identity.”

The Pragmatist: “Whatever you think of controversies, you can’t deny the economic benefits and charitable contributions.”

The Critic: “Such extreme wealth concentration troubles me, regardless of architectural merit.”

The Architecture Enthusiast: “Personal issues aside, this is one of America’s finest Georgian revival estates.”

Separating Structure from Story

What becomes clear in examining these controversies is the importance of nuanced thinking. The Les Wexner house exists as multiple things simultaneously:

1. An architectural achievement that showcases American craftsmanship
2. A family home where children were raised and memories made
3. A charitable venue that has raised millions for good causes
4. A symbol that means different things to different people

The Ongoing Evolution of Perception

Public perception continues to evolve over time. As years pass and controversies fade, what remains is the physical structure and its impact on the community. Many historical estates have outlived the controversies of their original owners to become beloved landmarks.

The estate’s future perception may depend on:

• How it’s used for community benefit going forward
• Whether it remains in the Wexner family
• How New Albany continues to develop around it
• What stories future generations choose to tell

Finding Balance in Complexity

Perhaps the most mature approach is to hold multiple truths simultaneously. The Les Wexner house can be both an architectural treasure and a symbol of wealth inequality. It can host wonderful charitable events while also representing troubling associations. It can inspire some while disturbing others.

This complexity makes the estate more interesting, not less. It forces us to think critically about:

• Architecture’s role in society
• Wealth’s responsibilities to the community
• How we judge historical structures
• What we choose to celebrate or critique

In the end, the Les Wexner house stands as a reminder that few things in life are purely good or bad. Like most significant structures, it embodies the contradictions and complexities of the society that created it. And perhaps that’s what makes it such a fascinating subject for continued discussion and debate.

Where Does Les Wexner Currently Live?

Les Wexner currently lives in a large estate located in New Albany, Ohio, a suburb northeast of Columbus. He moved from the Bexley area and now resides on a Georgian-inspired estate in New Albany, which he helped develop through his real estate company, the New Albany Company. This estate and community are well-known as his long-term residence and base of operations.

You may also read (explore the unique design of rob thomass home).