Key Property Attributes
Bill Gates’ primary residential property is a waterfront estate in Medina, Washington, on the east shore of Lake Washington. Commonly referred to as Xanadu 2, the site is known for its scale, tech-forward systems, and lakeside setting. Below are verified attributes, where available, organized by category.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Medina, Washington, on Lake Washington | Public records and local reporting |
| Lot Size | Approximately 91,000 square feet (~2.1 acres) | County assessor data |
| Main House Size | Approximately 6,134 square feet | Public records |
| Other Structures | Guest house, pool house, garage/workshop | Property records and site analysis |
| Notable Features | Retractable roof, large pool, extensive landscaping, high-tech automation | On-site description and reputable feature profiles |
Name and Site Context
The estate is widely known as Xanadu 2, a nod to the original Xanadu estate built on the same compound in the 1990s. Xanadu 2 refers to the reconstruction completed after the earlier house was demolished. The property occupies a full lot in a quiet residential area of Medina, with direct lakefront access. Because the site is private, details are drawn from public records, municipal filings, and architectural profiles rather than on-site statements.
Scale and Layout
Main Residence
The main house is a single-family residence sized at about 6,134 square feet. It provides multiple living areas, bedrooms, and tech-integrated systems. The layout emphasizes indoor-outdoor flow, with large windows and access to terraces.
Support Structures
Across the compound there is a guest house, a pool house, and a garage or workshop building. These structures contribute to the compound’s function as a multi-use residential campus, supporting hosting, recreation, and operations.
Outdoor and Infrastructure Elements
The site includes extensive landscaping, a pool area, and hardscape surfaces. A notable architectural detail is the retractable roof in main living spaces, which allows for open-air living while retaining climate control options.
Tech, Security, and Maintenance
As a high-profile residence, the estate incorporates advanced building systems, including climate automation, entertainment infrastructure, and security measures. Ongoing maintenance, landscaping, and system updates are handled by a small on-site team and third-party specialists. These operational elements help preserve the compound’s functionality and privacy year-round.
Privacy, Access, and Public Interest
Because Gates is a globally recognized figure, the property frequently draws media attention. However, the estate maintains strict perimeter privacy, with security protocols and landscaping buffers. Local neighbors and municipal authorities interact with the site primarily through code compliance, permitting, and routine oversight. Public curiosity is balanced by the family’s right to residential privacy.
Context and Comparisons
Compared with other high-net-worth homes in the region, the Medina compound is notable for its scale, lakefront positioning, and integration of technology. Below is a concise comparison to illustrate how key metrics align with regional large residences.
| Metric | This Property (Medina) | Typical Large Lakefront Home | Regional Tech Executive Residence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lot Size | ~2.1 acres | 0.5–1 acre | 1–3 acres |
| Main House Size | ~6,134 sq ft | 3,000–5,000 sq ft | 5,000–8,000 sq ft |
| Distinctive Features | Retractable roof, heavy automation | Pools, terraces | Advanced tech, security |
Ownership, Transfers, and Records
The property is held under an LLC associated with Gates’ broader investment and family structure. Transfer history is limited, but public records indicate acquisition of the larger compound in the late 1990s and redevelopment in the 2000s. Because real estate filings are a matter of public record, details such as lot size and structure footprints are reliable and verifiable.
Clarifying Common Misconceptions
- The name Xanadu 2 refers to a rebuild on the same Medina lot, not a replica in another region.
- Reported square footage reflects the main house; auxiliary structures are additional.
- High-profile visibility does not equate to official tours or public access; the site remains private.
Reliable Sourcing and Updates
Information presented here is drawn from municipal data, assessed records, and feature profiles from established publications. Claims about interior layouts not directly observed are avoided. As property use and regulation can change, data points tied to public records are prioritized for accuracy and long-term relevance.
Tags: property-overview, tech-wealth, medina-wa