The answer is: 13 years

1 Kings 7:1 - Solomon dedicated 13 years to constructing his own palace, reflecting both his wealth and ambition. Interestingly, this period significantly exceeds the 7 years spent on the Temple, showing his desire for personal opulence. Solomon's architectural endeavours, like the Temple and his palace, symbolize Israel’s golden age (1 Kings 10:1-2).

The striking contrast in the timelines of Solomon's royal palace and the Temple is a vivid layer in the narrative of his reign. While the Temple symbolized the spiritual core of Israel and reflected collective devotion, Solomon's lengthy devotion to his own house—13 years—speaks to a more personal ambition. During this golden age of Israel, Solomon transformed the nation not just politically but also architecturally, integrating international influences that enriched his own lavish style.

Interestingly, Solomon's grandiness isn't just limited to construction; it reflects his wider pursuit of knowledge, wealth, and culture. He was known not only for his impressive buildings but also for his wisdom, which again demonstrated his rich understanding of human nature. Think of how he judiciously settled legal disputes—and it's equally clever how he crafted his immense palace complex filled with art and jewels.

Fun fact: Solomon’s involvement in trade paved the way for cultural exchange. His alliances—with rulers like Pharaoh’s daughter, for instance—opened doors and fashioned connections that extended far beyond the borders of Israel, leading to a greater cosmopolitan atmosphere.

In essence, as Solomon delighted in his works, he constructed a melding of grandeur and ethics, a vision for his reign hopefully balanced by the wisdom for which he is famously renowned. Each block laid in both treasury and Temple, they reflect profound teachings about ambition, morality, and the swift passage of both time and legacy through generations.