It’s the summer of 1957, and 22-year-old Elvis Presley is at the height of his early fame. His sultry voice and charismatic presence had made him the King of Rock’ n’ Roll, but he was ready for more than just a crown—he wanted a place to call his own. After scouting the perfect location, Presley found Graceland, a 13.8-acre property on the outskirts of Memphis, Tennessee. For $102,500, he purchased the grand mansion that would become synonymous with his legacy. Though Graceland would always be Elvis’s home, it was more than a place to live. It became a symbol of his larger-than-life personality, complete with luxurious rooms, hidden nooks, and vibrant décor that reflect his status as one of the most iconic performers in history. But beyond its famous facade lies a floor plan that tells the story of Elvis’s life, work, and play.
A First Look: Graceland’s General Layout
Graceland is no ordinary mansion. The mansion covers approximately 17,552 square feet and has 23 rooms, including eight bedrooms and four bathrooms. Built in 1939, the two-story Colonial Revival home boasts a symmetrical layout, large windows, and intricate detailing.
When visitors step inside, they’re greeted by an elegant foyer that sets the entire home’s tone. From there, Graceland’s layout opens into grand and intimate spaces, reflecting the dual sides of Elvis’s personality—the performer and the man behind the legend. The mansion has two main floors, a basement, and a carefully manicured outdoor area, each with its unique purpose.
The Ground Floor: A Space for Entertaining
Much of Graceland’s socializing and entertaining took place on its ground floor. Designed to impress, this floor includes some of the most famous rooms in the mansion, each telling its own story of Elvis’s life as a star.
- The Living Room
When you enter the home, the first room to the right is the spacious and stylish living room. Decked out in white and gold, with long drapes and plush furniture, this room was designed for entertaining guests. The 15-foot sofa, large windows, and grand piano create an air of luxury, making this space perfect for entertaining guests, family, and fellow celebrities.
- The Music Room
Just off the living room is the Music Room. The space holds a piano and various instruments that Elvis and his friends often play. This room, featuring floor-to-ceiling mirrors and lavish furnishings, was one of Elvis’s favorite spots to relax and play music when he wasn’t on stage. Music, after all, was at the core of his existence.
- The Dining Room
The dining room is just across the hall from the living room and Music Room. It is more intimate and designed for family meals and smaller gatherings. Decorated with sparkling chandeliers and elegant place settings, the dining room was a place for Elvis to enjoy meals with his loved ones. The black marble fireplace adds a classic touch to the room.
- The Jungle Room
The most famous room in Graceland is the Jungle Room at the back of the mansion. Elvis remodeled this room in the 1970s, and it’s known for its eccentric tropical décor, featuring green shag carpets, carved wooden furniture, and animal-themed items. What began as a space to unwind soon became Elvis’s recording studio, where he worked on his final two albums. The Jungle Room remains a highlight for any visitor touring the mansion today.
- The Kitchen
Graceland’s kitchen was a family-oriented space where meals were prepared around the clock for the household. True to Elvis’s love for Southern comfort food, the kitchen features vintage appliances and a homey vibe. It remains much as it was during Elvis’s time, a cozy and functional part of the mansion.
The Upstairs: Elvis’s Private Haven
Graceland’s upstairs floor is strictly off-limits to the public, a testament to how private this space was for Elvis during his life. Even though the upstairs is closed for viewing, we know it holds Elvis’s bedroom, bathroom, and additional guest rooms.
- Elvis’s Bedroom
Elvis’s bedroom was a sanctuary where he could unwind and escape from the pressures of fame. The room is reportedly decorated in purple and gold, Elvis’s favorite colors. It features a luxurious bed, personal mementos, and even a collection of his favorite books.
- The Main Bathroom
Elvis’s main bathroom is as opulent as expected, with a walk-in closet, a large marble bathtub, and mirrored walls. The bathroom became infamous as the place where Elvis passed away on August 16, 1977, adding a sad note to the mansion’s storied history.
The Basement: A Space for Fun and Relaxation
The basement of Graceland was where Elvis let loose and enjoyed life to the fullest. It’s a floor designed for entertainment, with various playful and leisurely features.
- The TV Room
Elvis loved to keep up with current events and watch his favorite shows. The TV Room in the basement, with its three built-in televisions, allowed him to do just that. Decorated in bright yellow and navy blue, the room exudes a playful vibe and was the site of many late-night TV binges with friends and family.
- The Pool Room
Another highlight of the basement is the Pool Room, an incredibly unique space with its walls and ceiling covered in fabric. The intricate draping of the fabric gives the room a luxurious, intimate feel, and it’s here where Elvis and his friends would unwind over a game of pool. The room’s cozy atmosphere makes it a memorable part of the Graceland tour.
The Outdoor Areas: Reflecting Elvis’s Love for Nature
The grounds of Graceland are as grand as the mansion itself, featuring multiple areas designed for relaxation, entertainment, and reflection.
- The Meditation Garden
Perhaps the most solemn part of Graceland is the Meditation Garden, where Elvis and several family members are buried. Originally designed as a quiet space for reflection, the garden now draws thousands of fans each year who come to pay their respects to the King.
- The Swimming Pool
The outdoor pool area is another notable feature of the mansion. Elvis loved swimming, and the pool offered him a private space to enjoy one of his favorite pastimes. The surrounding area includes lush greenery and seating for outdoor gatherings.
Graceland’s Role in American Culture
More than just Elvis’s home, Graceland has become a symbol of American culture and history. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006, drawing over 650,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most visited homes in the United States. The floor plan of Graceland reflects Elvis’s tastes and lifestyle, blending Southern charm with Hollywood flair. Today, Graceland remains a place where fans can connect with Elvis personally, walking through the same halls and rooms where he lived, laughed, and created music.
Conclusion: A Mansion for a King
Graceland floor plan tells the story of Elvis Presley’s life, from the public entertainer to the private man. With each room reflecting a different part of his personality, the mansion is more than just a home—it’s a piece of history. Whether it’s the grand living room where Elvis entertained guests, or the private bedroom upstairs where he sought refuge from the spotlight, Graceland embodies the legend’s journey. As fans worldwide continue to visit, the home stands as a timeless tribute to the man who forever changed the landscape of American music.
