Fashion and interior design luminary Chris Benz has established a vibrant entertaining retreat on Long Island's South Shore. Drawing inspiration from fellow multi-homeowners, Benz recently acquired a charming farmhouse-style property in Brookhaven, intended specifically for hosting social events. This expansion follows his successful renovation of another Bellport residence with partner Peter Toumbekis and his continued influence in the design world through Cult Projects and Brooklinen. The new acquisition, a neglected structure from around 1900, presented a unique canvas for Benz's creative vision, which he skillfully transformed into an inviting haven for friends and guests. His meticulous approach to blending the home's historic charm with contemporary aesthetics has resulted in a distinctive space that balances functionality with a whimsical elegance.
The transformation of the Brookhaven farmhouse involved a comprehensive redesign, both indoors and out. Benz embraced the property's quirky layout, converting overlooked areas into captivating social zones, such as a bar/library adorned with vintage-inspired wallpaper and a bright great room overlooking the pool. The heart of the home, a custom stainless-steel kitchen island, exemplifies his dedication to creating exceptional spaces for interaction and culinary enjoyment. Outside, the landscape was thoughtfully reimagined with new pathways, vibrant plantings, and a pool shed transformed into a Japanese-inspired teahouse, further solidifying the property's role as an idyllic gathering spot. Benz's ability to infuse personality and purpose into every detail has made this second home a testament to his passion for design and hospitality.
A Designer's Vision: Crafting Social Sanctuaries
Chris Benz, a prominent figure in both fashion and interior design, has expanded his personal real estate portfolio with a distinctive purpose: to create the ultimate entertaining hub. His recent acquisition, a vintage farmhouse in Brookhaven, Long Island, serves as a dedicated venue for hosting dinner and cocktail parties, a playful nod to his observation of actress Jennifer Tilly's similar dual-home lifestyle. Benz, whose diverse career includes stints as creative director for Bill Blass and senior vice-president of design for Brooklinen, alongside running his renovation concierge service, Cult Projects, saw past the property's initial neglected state. He envisioned a space where friends could gather, relax, and socialize, transforming its once-disjointed rooms into cohesive, inviting environments that reflect his unique aesthetic.
Upon discovering the circa 1900 farmhouse, Benz was met with a maze of rooms, some devoid of natural light, and a sunken living room reminiscent of "Camelot." Despite these initial challenges, the home retained its original character, and the presence of a swimming pool presented a clear opportunity. Benz embraced this as a chance for unrestrained creative expression, aiming to craft a series of "liminal spaces" – areas designed for easy lounging and social interaction. He meticulously integrated modern elements while preserving the house's inherent charm. This included a striking bar/library decorated with Schumacher's Pyne Hollyhock wallpaper, a vibrant great room with contemporary furnishings for summer enjoyment, and a cozy sunken living room with a salvaged glazed brown tile mantel, perfect for winter gatherings. His design philosophy centered on creating continuity with the home's original spirit, ensuring that each space felt both fresh and deeply rooted in its history.
Outdoor Elegance and Culinary Delights
Beyond the farmhouse's interior, Chris Benz extended his design expertise to the outdoor areas, creating an equally enchanting environment for entertaining. Collaborating with Nelson Briggs of BPM Landscapes, Benz reimagined the grounds to complement the home's refreshed aesthetic. An unappealing asphalt driveway was replaced with elegant pea gravel and crushed oyster shells, framed by stately magnolias, creating a more welcoming and aesthetically pleasing approach. The rear garden underwent a significant transformation, with a deck removed and replaced by sophisticated stone steps, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. A particularly innovative touch was the conversion of a pool shed into a Japanese-inspired teahouse, complete with traditional lanterns and a ceramic tile roof, offering a serene and unique gathering spot.
The culinary heart of Benz's entertaining farmhouse is undoubtedly its kitchen, a space he regards as the project's defining feature. Dominated by a custom stainless-steel island capable of seating up to ten guests, it quickly became the central gathering point for all who visited. Its exceptional design even left a lasting impression on Cooper Wehde, an executive producer of "The Bear," who stayed at the house and praised the kitchen as "truly exceptional" and a place everyone naturally gravitated towards. This space perfectly embodies Benz's commitment to creating functional yet stylish areas that foster connection and enjoyment. The success of the home as an entertaining haven is evident in guests' preference to stay there over Benz's primary residence, a clear indication of the inviting and convivial atmosphere he has so skillfully cultivated.