The transaction that recently caused a sensation in Paris took place in the prestigious 7th arrondissement, where real estate is reaching dizzying heights. It is about the acquisition of a private mansion of 700 m², sold at the exorbitant price of 23.5 million euros, that is to say, more than 32,000 euros per square meter. This sale, one of the biggest of the year, quickly made headlines in the French press, arousing the curiosity of many real estate observers.
The mystery surrounding the new owner of this architectural gem was quickly resolved. It is none other than the royal family of Qatar, who managed to get their hands on this mansion that dates back to the 19th century. The location, in the capital’s 7th arrondissement, near the Hôtel de Matignon, is a choice that testifies to the exquisite taste of its new occupants.
The surprise came from the other side of the transaction, because the seller is none other than James Dysonthe British businessman who ranks 211 on the list of the richest people in the world, with a fortune estimated at $9.5 billion this year according to Forbes. Dyson is best known as the founder of the eponymous group, specializing in innovative products such as bagless cyclonic vacuum cleaners.
The history of this mansion dates back to 2019 when James Dyson acquired it with the aim of converting it for his son. With a 70 m² garden and an indoor swimming pool with a glass roof, this building also houses a games room in the basement, a gym and a suite on the first floor. Additionally, a small three-story building overlooks the property, including a music studio.
The renowned architect Pierre-Charles Dusillion is the author of this exceptional architectural work, having devoted a large part of his career to the renovation of buildings of this type, such as the famous castle of Azay-le-Rideau. The facade of this mansion, rue de Chanaleilles, is a true work of art, decorated with minute details such as foliage and masks representing dragons, satyrs and bats.
The new owner of this exceptional property would be one of the sons of the former Prime Minister of Qatar, Hamad bin Jassem Al-Thani. It’s no surprise to see Qatar’s royal family investing in Parisian property, as they previously owned the iconic Hotel Lambert on Ile Saint-Louis, before its purchase by Xavier Niel. In addition, Qatar owns several Parisian palaces, including Le Royal Monceau, the Concorde Lafayette Hotel, as well as the famous Printemps Haussmann. Its footprint also extends to the Champs Elysees, with an impressive 35,000 square meters of land.
