Vogue just published Tory Burch’s makeover of Bunny Mellon’s storied Antigua home and it’s everything Caribbean dreams are made of. Famed philanthropist Rachel “Bunny” Mellon (if you haven’t read this yet, you must!) first purchased her picturesque Caribbean plot of land in the 1960s and hired the legendary Billy Baldwin to decorate the gorgeous home she built there with the help of architect architect H. Page Cross. Baldwin would later call it “the prettiest house in the world,” and Bunny admitted it was “the house I love the most.” Though famously private, Bunny’s well-heeled Antigua house guests included Jacqueline Kennedy and Hubert de Givenchy (apparently, he had his own suite, china, and linens–can you even imagine?!). Known for her passion for gardening (can’t wait to read this!), Bunny’s long neglected gardens were revived by landscape architect Miranda Brooks. Below, explore more of the stylish tropical oasis. (Photographed by François Halard, Vogue, September 2018)
The residence’s inner courtyard has a dreamy reflecting pool. I love the old brick.
Architect-designer Daniel Romualdez helped Tory give the interiors an update. I love the pale blue walls of the sitting room. It’s furnished with the perfect mix of French antiques and wicker designs.
I love a close-up. Those orange-y red chairs are the perfect pop of color.
Two large acacia trees provide shade around the swimming pool. The wicker seating is casual and chic.
French and American flags tucked into an umbrella stand (also love the hanging hats!). Tory Burch and her French fiancé plan to wed at the residence this year.
The library is full of fabric by Dek Tillett. Repeating the same print in various places around a room always makes a stylish, old-school statement.
Zooming in. Bunny loved painted floors and I do, too!
Burch’s bedroom has floral linens by D. Porthault. The bed canopy was made in cottons by Pierre Frey and Le Manach.
A parterre outside Tory’s bedroom designed by landscape architect Miranda Brooks.
More gorgeous gardens designed by Miranda Brooks.
Wattle fencing (love it) surrounds a romantic meadow designed by Brooks.
Tory Burch on the deck. I wouldn’t mind waking up to that breathtaking view!
How You Can Get the Look:
Have you ever been to Antigua? What was it like? I’ve never been to the Caribbean and would love to visit!
Absolute perfection!
I read the Bunny Mellon biography earlier this year and now also cannot get enough! Just fascinating. Thank you for sharing these images!
Kate – Wasn’t it fantastic? I just ate it up! Glad you enjoyed the photos!
Julie – Right?! Talk about vacation home goals!
This home is just beyond gorgeous, thank you so much for sharing! Antigua is a beautiful island. I have stayed at the Admirals Inn in English Harbour a few times over the years – it is such a special place!
Alison – Will google it! Thanks for the tip—sounds amazing!
Breathtaking !
And where can one find the beautiful chandelier ?
Is it a Parisian antique?
Fun to see these photos. My family stayed at Bunny’s home in Antigua for many years, good to see much of the furniture is still there.
Nini – You must have wonderful memories! Thank you for sharing. xx Katie