The luxurious Château de Lumière, a European-inspired mansion in Great Falls, Virginia, has finally gone under contract after years of remaining vacant. Originally purchased by Saudi Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud in 2017 for an undisclosed amount, the property was designed to serve as a luxurious retreat. However, despite its opulence, the prince never occupied the residence. The mansion, spanning 24,000 square feet and sitting on 5.48 acres of gated land, has been on the market since 2021 and has captured attention due to its grandeur and uninhabited status.
The reasons for Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud’s decision not to reside in the home remain unclear. It is speculated that his global commitments and ownership of properties around the world may have contributed to the mansion remaining vacant. Initially listed for $12 million, the property was later adjusted to $11.8 million, making it one of the most exclusive listings in the Washington, D.C. area.
A True Château-Style Masterpiece
This stunning estate, built by The Building Group, is a prime example of meticulous craftsmanship, featuring European architecture that embodies old-world charm and modern luxury. The property includes eight bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, along with every modern amenity imaginable. The mansion’s structure features custom brick, cast stone, slate roofing, and imported marble, while the interiors are enhanced with glass mosaics and fine plaster molding.
Visitors are welcomed into the estate through an elegant foyer with 12-foot ceilings, offering a grand entrance that sets the tone for the rest of the home. The main level boasts a formal living room, dining room, library, ballroom, and a bar, all designed for entertaining on a grand scale. At the heart of the home is a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen, complete with custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and a separate spice kitchen for additional functionality.
Grand Living and Entertainment Spaces
The upper level of the mansion is home to the expansive owner’s suite, which provides sweeping views of the pool and gardens. The owner’s suite is complemented by four additional ensuite bedrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy for family members or guests. Each bedroom is designed with luxurious finishes, featuring elegant details that enhance the mansion’s overall grandeur.
On the lower level, the home transforms into a private entertainment center, featuring a recreation room with a fireplace, a billiards room, and a home theater. A spa, complete with a massage room, sauna, and bath, offers a tranquil space for relaxation. For sports enthusiasts, the property boasts an indoor basketball court with a 16-foot ceiling, providing the perfect space for indoor recreational activities.
Additionally, the lower level includes a private guest room with a sitting area and bath, ideal for accommodating visitors.
Resort-Like Outdoor Living
The mansion’s outdoor spaces are equally impressive, offering formal landscaped gardens surrounding a sparkling pool with fire bowls. The estate is designed for both peaceful relaxation and outdoor entertaining, making it the perfect retreat. A 6-car garage and detached guest apartment further enhance the estate’s offerings, adding both convenience and elegance to the property.
A Rare Transaction
After listing the property in 2021, Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud’s mansion finally went under contract in October 2024. The prince originally purchased the estate in 2017, but due to his international lifestyle and extensive property portfolio, the mansion remained uninhabited throughout his ownership. This unoccupied status only heightened the allure of the estate, making it a unique opportunity for prospective buyers.
Real estate experts have noted the significance of this sale, as high-end properties in Great Falls continue to be highly sought after, especially those offering both historical intrigue and luxury amenities. The $11.8 million transaction reflects the home’s exclusivity and prime location near Washington, D.C..
Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud’s Background
Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud is a prominent member of the Saudi royal family, known for his diplomatic career and international influence. He has held various significant positions, including serving as the Saudi ambassador to the United States and as the Deputy Minister of Defense in Saudi Arabia. His global responsibilities have often kept him abroad, which likely contributed to his limited use of the Great Falls mansion.
Saudi Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud
Despite owning several properties around the world, Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud’s Virginia estate stands out for its combination of European elegance and modern luxury. While the prince never occupied the property, it reflects his taste for exceptional craftsmanship and exclusive living. As the estate now moves into the hands of a new owner, its legacy of luxury will undoubtedly continue.