Taylor Swift fans may be surprised to learn that a beautiful estate in Franklin, Tennessee—just outside Nashville—played a small but meaningful part in her early rise to stardom. Known as the Dark Horse Estate, this 20-acre property is where Swift, then just 15 years old, recorded parts of her debut album. At the time, no one could have predicted she would become one of the biggest names in music.
Robin Crow, who has owned the estate for over three decades, told PEOPLE that he only briefly met Swift while she was recording. “I never gave it a second thought,” he said. “And now, she’s the biggest artist in the world.” The estate includes three professional recording studios inside a timber-framed building, where countless artists—besides Swift—have also created music over the years.
The property is more than just a studio. It’s also home to The Manor, a sprawling 14,000-square-foot mansion that includes seven bedrooms, ten bathrooms, three kitchens, a 34-foot fireplace, and entertainment spaces like a library, billiard room, and media room. The luxury home is now available to rent on Airbnb, with prices starting at nearly $5,000 for a two-night stay.
Over the years, the estate has become a creative retreat for many musicians. Kings of Leon reportedly stayed for over three months to record, while Shawn Mendes spent several weeks there. Crow describes the place as a hub of creativity and inspiration—whether for music, retreats, or private events.
It’s a full-circle moment for Swifties who want to experience a slice of Taylor’s history firsthand—complete with luxury amenities and musical legacy.
