River Oaks Mansion with a Uniquely Storied Past Lists for $16 Mil

River Oaks Mansion with a Uniquely Storied Past Lists for $16 Mil

IF WALLS COULD talk, the ones of the newly listed Neoclassical mansion at 2115 River Oaks Boulevard would sure have some fabulous stories to tell.


The former home of the late Baron Ricky di Potanova — the grandson of oil tycoon Hugh Roy Cullen — and Baroness Alessandra di Portanova, the palatial property has hosted dignitaries and celebrities from around the world. It is newly listed for $16 million.

Originally built in 1968, the 21,500-square-foot home underwent extensive renovations — at a cost totaling $10 million in today's market — in 2004, and boasts some original architectural elements with elegantly contemporary design flourishes, such as marble columns and flooring in the foyer, and a towering marble staircase.

The lot totals nearly 44,000 square feet, situated on the corner of River Oaks Boulevard and Avalon Place. A side courtyard is outfitted for entertaining, and while a pool is pretty standard-issue for a River Oaks manse, this one is truly something else. It's located inside, enclosed by a glass-paneled ceiling from which multiple chandeliers hang. The 12,0000-square-foot space is in the very middle of the home, and multiple entertaining areas, like a cozy great room and a media room, are connected by large wooden double doors. The pool area even has its own kitchen with bar seating and stainless-steel appliances.

A main kitchen, mahogany-paneled study, several fireplaces, and formal living and dining rooms round out the first floor. Upstairs, balconies overlook the pool area, and primary and secondary bedrooms are tucked away.

View the complete listing, by Nancy Almodovar of Nan and Company Properties Christie's International Real Estate, here.

Home + Real Estate
Leadership in Action: Clothiers Murry and Karen Penner Celebrate Family Business’ 50-Year Anny

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

Keep Reading Show less

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

Keep Reading Show less

Bianca Bucaram, founder of The Bucaram PR Group and BXM Music

Get to Know Bianca:

Bianca Bucaram, founder of The Bucaram PR Group and BXM Music, is a dynamic force in the public relations industry. She is known for her tenacity, empathy, and bilingual communication skills. As a local publicist with national reach, she blends local insights with broader impact, telling compelling stories that foster business growth and create opportunities.

Keep Reading Show less