The historic barn at Greenwich backcountry’s Highland Farm was bustling with more than 200 guests on Thursday, May 16, as Martha Stewart and interior designer Stephen Sills discussed their favorite homes, gardens and interiors at Greenwich Historical Society’s annual “Spring Fete.”
Conducted in a casual ‘fireside-chat’ manner, the conversation turn on their shared love of historic properties, including Stewart’s restored Skylands home in Seal Harbor, Maine, originally built for Edsel Ford; her Bedford farm; and those of several of Sills’ clients and friends whose interiors evoke his synthesis of classic and modern style.
Tori Mellott, style director of New York City-based Frederic magazine, introduced Stewart and Sills, and moderated the question-and-answer session.
“Spring Fete” event co-chairs Susannah Heyworth, Alexandra Kittle and Erica Maher Silverman made welcome remarks followed by vice-chairs Lauren duPont and Catherine Tompkins, who emphasized the importance of the event to raise critical funds for the historical society’s art and education programs, as well as expanding its Education Garden, where local students, campers and families can explore the history and uses of colonial-era plants and American Impressionist perennial flowers.
Funds raised from the event also support educational programs and resources accessible to all students and teachers in Greenwich schools; stewardship of the national historic landmark Bush-Holley House, landscape and gardens; and American art and history exhibits.
Presenting sponsor VanderHorn Architects completed a recent renovation of the deck stairs and windows on the southern facing side of the historic barn.
Catering for the prior evening’s Patron Party, also held at the barn, as well as the Designer Breakfast was provided by Marcia Selden. For more, click here.
