The Biltmore Estate was the principal mansion used in the film Being There.
The Iconic Setting of Being There
Being There, the acclaimed 1979 film starring Peter Sellers, features a grand estate that serves as a pivotal backdrop for its unique narrative. This magnificent residence, which largely shapes the visual tone of the movie, is none other than the Biltmore Estate. Its opulent interiors and expansive grounds create the perfect aristocratic world for the unassuming character of Chance the gardener to inhabit.
About the Biltmore Estate
Located in Asheville, North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate holds the distinction of being the largest private home in the United States. Commissioned by George Washington Vanderbilt II, this sprawling estate was largely completed by 1895 and boasts a blend of architectural grandeur and meticulously designed landscapes. Its sheer scale and luxurious appointments made it an ideal choice to represent the secluded, sophisticated world depicted in Being There.
Key Features and Filming Significance
The choice of the Biltmore Estate for Being There was instrumental in conveying the film's themes and atmosphere:
- Architectural Splendor: The estate's 250 rooms, featuring French Renaissance château architecture, provided a backdrop of timeless elegance and immense wealth, starkly contrasting with Chance's simple origins.
- Vast Gardens and Grounds: The extensive formal and informal gardens, designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, complemented the protagonist's deep connection to nature and gardening, making his character more believable within such a grand setting.
- Symbolic Contrast: The imposing grandeur of the Biltmore Estate effectively emphasized the disconnect between Chance's profound simplicity and the complex, often superficial, society he unexpectedly navigates.
Biltmore Estate at a Glance
The following table provides a quick overview of this historic and cinematic landmark:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Asheville, North Carolina, USA |
| Current Status | Historic house museum, tourist attraction, and National Historic Landmark |
| Size | Largest private home in the United States (approx. 178,926 sq ft) |
| Architectural Style | Châteauesque (French Renaissance Revival) |
| Built For | George Washington Vanderbilt II |
| Completed Year | 1895 |
| Notable Use | Principal filming location for Being There |
To learn more about this historical mansion, visit the Biltmore Estate Wikipedia page.
