One of Houston's most recognizable estates is back on the market, this time with a $21.9 million asking price.
Located in the heart of River Oaks, 2115 River Oaks Boulevard was recently featured by the Houston Business Journal and KHOU 11 following its return to the market. As of October 2026, the property is the most expensive single-family home listed in the Houston area on HAR.com.
The 21,500-square-foot residence has a history that few Houston homes can match. Once owned by Baron Ricky and Baroness Alessandra di Portanova, the estate became famous for its elaborate parties, distinguished guests and extraordinary indoor pool pavilion. Today, it offers an opportunity to own a significant piece of Houston's architectural and social history.
Nancy Almodovar, Founder and CEO of Nan & Company Properties, is representing the estate for the second time, having previously handled its sale in 2022.
From $16 Million to $21.9 Million
The estate first came to market in 2021 with a $16 million asking price. It sold in 2022, ranking as the Houston area's second-highest residential sale that year based on list price.
Four years later, the property has returned to the market for $21.9 million, following a series of improvements by its current owners.
Since purchasing the home, the owners have invested in updates that preserve its distinctive character while improving its functionality. These include new doors and windows, refreshed landscaping, upgraded chiller systems and the addition of an elevator.
Inside, Viking appliances have been installed, Gaggenau wine storage has been added, and the home theater has received enhancements.
The difference between the two asking prices is $5.9 million, an increase of nearly 37%. While that change alone does not establish how much the property's market value has appreciated, it reflects the estate's current positioning and the investment made since its previous sale.
For Houston's luxury market, the listing also offers a rare opportunity to see how one of the city's most prominent properties has evolved over time.
A River Oaks Estate With an Extraordinary History
Built in 1968, the di Portanovas began expanding it years later, adding several defining features. Between 2002 and 2004, architect and designer JD Bartell led a multimillion-dollar renovation.
The estate was listed at $16 million in 2021 and sold in 2022, ranking second among Houston-area sales that year by list price. In 2026 it returned to the market at $21.9 million, following updates by the current owners.
Between 2022 and 2026, the current owners added new doors and windows, refreshed the landscaping, installed Viking appliances, upgraded the chiller systems, added an elevator and Gaggenau wine storage, and enhanced the home theater.
The 12,000-Square-Foot Indoor Pool Pavilion
The estate's most celebrated space is its approximately 12,000-square-foot natatorium, an indoor entertainment pavilion centered around a saltwater swimming pool.
Chandeliers hang above the pool area, where seating and dining spaces provide room for gatherings. A plexiglass stage adds another unusual architectural detail, recalling the elaborate events once hosted by the di Portanovas.
The pavilion connects directly to several rooms throughout the residence, making it an integral part of the home's design.
Additional spaces include a wellness area and an apartment suite, offering flexibility for residents and guests.
For buyers considering homes in Houston's highest price category, features of this scale are particularly significant. An indoor pavilion of this size, integrated into an established River Oaks estate, would be difficult to replicate.
What Makes a Property a Trophy Estate?
In ultra-luxury real estate, the appeal of a property extends well beyond its square footage.
Location remains essential, and River Oaks has long been among Houston's most prestigious residential neighborhoods. Its established estates, mature landscaping and proximity to the city's cultural and commercial centers continue to attract buyers seeking exceptional properties.
Architectural character also plays an important role. At 2115 River Oaks Boulevard, the formal interiors and expansive entertainment areas reflect decades of design decisions and investment.
Then there is the property's history.
The di Portanova name remains closely associated with Houston society, and the estate's reputation has endured long after the couple's ownership. That history gives the residence a level of recognition that few properties enjoy.
Recent improvements are another consideration. Updates to mechanical systems, windows, doors and other major components can be especially valuable in a residence of this size, where ongoing maintenance represents a substantial commitment.
Together, these characteristics help explain why 2115 River Oaks Boulevard occupies a distinctive position in Houston's luxury housing market.
Nancy Almodovar Returns as Listing Agent
Representing an estate of this caliber requires a detailed understanding of the property and the limited pool of buyers seeking homes at this price level.
For Nancy Almodovar, the current listing follows her previous representation of the estate during its 2022 sale.
That experience provides valuable context for the property's return to the market. Having previously marketed the residence, Almodovar is familiar with its defining features, its positioning among Houston's highest-priced homes and the considerations involved in presenting it to qualified buyers.
Through Nan & Company Properties, the estate is once again being introduced to the luxury market, now with the benefit of improvements completed under its current ownership.
The $21.9 million listing also draws renewed attention to Houston's ultra-prime residential segment, where individual transactions can represent some of the city's most significant real estate sales.
Explore 2115 River Oaks Boulevard
With its architectural history, expansive indoor pool pavilion and prominent River Oaks address, 2115 River Oaks Boulevard remains one of Houston's most distinctive private residences.
The estate is currently offered for $21.9 million through Nancy Almodovar of Nan & Company Properties.
To view property details, photography and additional information, visit the official listing for 2115 River Oaks Boulevard.
For private showing inquiries or information about buying and selling luxury real estate in Houston, connect with Nancy Almodovar and the Nan & Company Properties team.
Frequently Asked Questions About Houston Ultra-Luxury Real Estate
What is the most expensive home for sale in Houston?
As of October 2026, 2115 River Oaks Boulevard is the most expensive single-family home listed in the Houston area on HAR.com, with an asking price of $21.9 million. Listing availability and rankings are subject to change.
How has the price of 2115 River Oaks Boulevard changed?
The estate was listed at $16 million in 2021 and sold in 2022. It returned to the market in 2026 at $21.9 million after updates by the current owners, including new doors and windows, upgraded chiller systems, and an elevator.
Who is the listing agent for 2115 River Oaks Boulevard?
The estate is listed by Nancy Almodovar, CEO of Nan & Company Properties. Private showings can be arranged through nanproperties.com.
Who originally owned 2115 River Oaks Boulevard?
The estate is best known as the former residence of Baron Ricky and Baroness Alessandra di Portanova, who were prominent figures in Houston society. Their elaborate entertainment helped establish the property's reputation.
What is the indoor pool pavilion at 2115 River Oaks Boulevard?
The property features an approximately 12,000-square-foot indoor natatorium with a saltwater swimming pool, chandeliers, a plexiglass stage and areas for seating and dining.
Who renovated 2115 River Oaks Boulevard?
Architect and designer JD Bartell led a multimillion-dollar renovation between 2002 and 2004. The current owners have since made further updates.
