The click of billiard balls twirling elegant geometries across a scarlet table. The flick of a playing card on green baize in a “friendly” game of Texas Hold ’em—or an equally ruthless round of bridge. The slap and clack of a 50-point domino. The slide of a queen across the chessboard for a rear-rank checkmate. And the neon glow and synthesized stutters emanating from a legacy Ms. Pac-Man arcade cabinet. What shares these lovely sights and sounds? The games room.
Luxury Defined, the online magazine of Christie’s International Real Estate, spotlights that special room in a special house, dedicated solely to the creation of recreation: a leisurely leisure space, custom built and kitted out with games galore and entertainment à gogo.
Dungriffan in Dublin, Ireland
Dungriffan, a distinguished Victorian residence in South Dublin, has an array of options for games and entertainment. There’s a snooker room, a chess salon, and an informal snug, ideal for family games.
Palatial Estate in Beverly Hills, California
This Beverly Hills haven was built for entertaining on an epic scale. Among the impressive amenities are a games room with a crimson baize billiards table and antique chess table. The fun and games continue outside with a giant chess set, tennis court, putting green, and resort-worthy pool.
Grand Maison in Midi-Pyrenees, France
The billiards room at this charming French chateau doubles as a library. After a game, residents can retreat to the adjacent club-style lounge with its built-in bar and an open fireplace.
Searching for a home with a games room? Explore a luxury collection of homes with custom-built recreation spaces here.
