Inside Liliane Bettencourt's House: A Look At The World's Richest Woman's Estate

Could the life of the world's wealthiest woman, a name synonymous with luxury and intrigue, truly be encapsulated within the walls of her opulent homes? Liliane Bettencourt, the heiress to the L'Oral fortune, and for a time, the richest woman on Earth, led a life that was as captivating as the products her family's company created.

The story of Liliane Bettencourt is one of immense wealth, family disputes, artistic patronage, and a life lived in the rarefied air of the global elite. Her story is a complex tapestry woven with threads of business acumen, personal relationships, and the ever-present scrutiny that comes with unimaginable fortune. Her houses, scattered across the globe, were not merely residences; they were statements, reflections of her status and the life she led. A glimpse inside these properties offers a window into a world most can only dream of.

The Bettencourt family, acting in concert with Nestl, navigated the complexities of shareholders' agreements, solidifying their control over the vast L'Oral empire. This level of influence allowed Liliane to shape not only her personal life but also the strategic direction of a global beauty giant.

Her homes were more than just places to live; they were carefully curated environments reflecting her aesthetic sensibilities and status. From the grand villa in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, to other properties around the world, each residence held a distinct character. The decor often included furniture inherited from her father, evoking a "very 1920s" feel, as described by her friend Claude Delay. These spaces were filled with masterpieces and precious furnishings, a testament to her refined taste and the vast resources at her disposal. A tour, if one could be arranged, would have been a journey through art and history.

One of her most cherished properties was located near Paimpol, in Brittany, France. She would often retreat there, a haven away from the pressures of the outside world and, at times, the familial tensions that would come to dominate headlines. The villa, characterized by its colonnades and south-facing orientation, offered stunning views of the sea, with open shutters and a parasol shading the expansive garden. It was a place to recharge, far from the legal battles involving her daughter, Franoise Meyers.

The villa in Brittany was not the only place where she found solace. Her residences were designed to provide the utmost comfort and pleasure. The villa included a heated seawater swimming pool, where she welcomed friends, including the then-French President Georges Pompidou and his wife Claude.

In other words, Lilianes properties were a reflection of her place in society: a world of privilege and beauty. Each home showcased her commitment to design and artistry, which helped in defining her unique personality. Whether it was her love for classic furniture or modern designs, her homes showed her appreciation for a life of elegance.

Its worth noting that in 1972, her husband, Andr Bettencourt, a deputy, and Liliane attended the departure of Queen Elizabeth II from England in Rouen, a moment that would have been captured for posterity. This exemplifies the social circle she maintained, a blend of high society, politics, and artistic circles.

The French documentary exploring actions of individuals had a profound impact on French society, particularly given the political revelations that emerged in the years following her death. It demonstrated how much her actions and her relationships were scrutinized and the far-reaching effects of her choices.

Forbes consistently recognized her immense wealth, ranking her as the richest woman in the world at the time of her death, with an estimated net worth of $45 billion. In 2017, she was ranked 14th on the Forbes list of the worlds wealthiest people, with a fortune of $39.5 billion. The sheer scale of her wealth is difficult to comprehend, reflecting the success of L'Oral and her shrewd management of her inherited assets.

The sale of a property also garnered significant attention. She received 60 million for the sale, a testament to the value placed on her assets and the discerning tastes of those who sought to acquire them.

The world was fascinated by Liliane's choices, including those related to her homes. Her relationship with Franois-Marie Banier, a photographer, was particularly significant. Liliane, who was 70, was captivated by Banier, who was a quarter of a century her junior. This relationship, along with other choices, and their subsequent legal fallout, would dominate headlines for years.

Fanny Gunon des Mesnards, who started as an intern at Cond Nast France in 2015 shortly after the launch of the AD website, now holds an editorial position. Her career path mirrors the growth and impact of digital media in the luxury and lifestyle sectors.

The properties owned by Liliane were not just about opulent interiors; they also spoke of a life lived at the intersection of high society and influential circles.

Her homes were located in places of exceptional beauty and historical significance. The Pointe de l'Arcouest, facing Brhat, offered a visual spectacle and a quiet retreat. Her homes were in the heart of some of the most sought-after locations, with private views and a sense of seclusion.

Her home near the sea was a place of recreation. The villa with a heated sea water pool was where Liliane enjoyed her time with close friends, like the Pompidous, in the peaceful solitude of luxury.

The details of her daily life offer glimpses into the world of Liliane Bettencourt, from her love of art and furniture to her travels and relationships. Her story is a fascinating mix of wealth, relationships, and a profound impact on the world.

Her legacy continues to resonate, not only through the global beauty giant she helped shape but also through the stories of her life, a life spent in luxurious homes that served as silent witnesses to a remarkable era.