At Home in Connecticut with Michael Trapp

Tag along to Connecticut as we visit the iconic shop, guest house and home of designer and antiques dealer Michael Trapp! Learn how Michael travels the world to find the chic and unique pieces he is famous for. See his treasure-filled shop and former home (now guest quarters) inspired by his extensive travels. Hear how he created the grotto of his dreams that serves as a stylish entertaining space next to his remarkable pool in the most magical setting. Watch as Michael explains how he created his dramatic new home, incorporating a sophisticated and worldly mix - from a giant whale skeleton to dozens of plates excavated from an ancient ship wreck. You’ll learn why Michael’s shop is a must visit destination on all A list designers’ lists and how he creates the most extraordinary gardens and interiors with a completely original mastery of old and new! You’ll be inspired, informed and entertained!! For more visit quintessenceblog.com

[@a697ag]

I too grew up in a nomadic way with little sense of security, belonging or "home" which has led me to collect pieces like a magpie. Except that when Michael does it it is art and when I do it it's called hoarding. Bless this man. Everything is so beautiful

[@Cenepk101]

Well- had I opened that door into the house they would have to drag me off in handcuffs because I’d move in !!!! Absolutely in love with what he’s accomplished. The gardens, the grotto, the warehouse, the houses. Just so incredible. Like history come to life. I have seen bits and pieces of Michael’s place - but a video gives such a better perspective. I will watch this multiple times & am very grateful for your visit & Michael’s generosity bringing it to us !!!! Thank you so much !!!

[@quintessenceblg]

And thank YOU for watching and for your generous comment!! Michael is supremely talented!

[@querida1809]

Agreed. However, I won't mind working there or volunteer. Please pass it on to. Michael. What a eccentric, humorous and vibrant man, love it. Thanks Sussana and team, another great upload as always.

[@de2296]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@quintessenceblg]

@@querida1809 Thank YOU for watching - Stacey (behind the camera and the comments here)

[@Alfakkin]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@girle5584]

Never thought I'd say I want to live in a storage warehouse. Thank goodness there are unique people around with vision and flair who go right out of the box and captivate everyone. The world needs more of that type of inspiration and imagination.

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed!!

[@patriciagurwitz509]

I only wish these videos came out much more frequently. It’s amazing to enjoy how creative others can be when decorating their homes.💌

[@quintessenceblg]

We do our best! So glad you love!

[@tiffanycurtis4794]

This channel is amazing I watch it religiously 😄😄😄

[@peggyvick935]

And they need to be LONGER ❗️ I want more.

[@CatherinesChronicles_]

Yes more!!!

[@carolsmith5966]

I’m in awe and wonder! What an extraordinary collector Michael is. He certainly knows how to display and design using salvaged architectural pieces. His home and warehouse are a treasure trove of unique finds. Truly special to watch. Kudos to Susanna for selecting the perfect dress to wear in this most eclectic video. Loved it all.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thanks so much!! Michael is an inspiration!

[@MarielaDavina]

“Why don’t you tell me what you’re trying to do?” “Well…” I absolutely love it all.

[@AJsGreenThumbLLC]

OMG Susanna I LIVE for your uploads! You hit this one outta the park! This gentleman's home is a treasure! What an awesome collector and designer!😍💯

[@quintessenceblg]

Thanks so much!! So glad you enjoy our channel! - Stacey (behind the camera and the comments here)!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank So much I’m so glad you loved!

[@Bombolaninetynine]

@@quintessenceblg Your houses video are impressive and I love Susanna’s energy and enthusiasm. I can’t wait for your uploads! Thank you 😊

[@Funkyappeltj]

I had to pause this video multiple times just to take in all the layers of design in each room! Simply genius.

[@quintessenceblg]

I understand - how I felt when filming!! Michael is a visionary!

[@nancyring8104]

Hooray for maximalists and preservationists!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@quintessenceblg]

A big YES to that!!

[@ginafriend1690]

Very humble, reserved, well traveled, with such a broad vision, without forgetting where he came from. Excellent 🙌

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@raffinee_3763]

Wow, out of the box AND beautiful, elegant and sustainable........

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes to all!

[@artisanhome8980]

It's great to see home interiors with personality and homeowners unafraid to express themselves. LOVE IT!!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Couldn't agree more!! We always try and choose homes that have personality and express the owners! So glad you enjoyed!

[@Pinkrevenge101]

Cuz that is reality of ppl who arent rich

[@lilylebowsky5908]

​@@Pinkrevenge101the new rich are all the same (white gray beige colourings and mass produced looking pieces....oh and house tend to not look warm homely or at all lived in)

[@wendypanozzo9133]

What a fantastic home, grounds,grotto and life! To shop the world for treasures is a dream come true!The warmth you get from old objects is far superior to anything new you can purchase and it shows in his wonderful home.

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@rachelkruitbosch3156]

I never thought I'd see a house that was so much like my daydreams as a child! Beauty mystery and swashbuckling adventure combined... Thank you for taking us through Michael's property, it was delightful!

[@quintessenceblg]

Glad you enjoyed it! Michael is a magician!

[@maynardgreenhouse]

As soon as I saw the name I knew it would be one I HAD to watch right away. I bought an garden style book about 25 years ago and though there were beautiful styles and homes Michaels by far blew them all away. What a treat to get a tour. It transports you to the most exotic places, present and past. He’s also so humble which is totally charming. A simple kid from Ohio 🙂 accomplished his dream

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly!! So we’ll put snd all true! So glad you enjoyed!

[@stephaniesharkey3538]

That was a nice treat today, thanks Susanne! Merry Christmas!❤️🎄💚

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad! Merry Christmas to you! - Stacey

[@MarianneRuffhaven]

oh my word! I would never be able to leave. I could listen to his stories for hours.

[@christopherone1]

I mean.....amazing. This entire series with Susanna, extraordinary! Every home so unique...with amazing accessories, art, collections from around the world; this is what I call interior design. THOSE PLATES!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you!! So glad you enjoy our channel! - Stacey (behind the camera)

[@aurorarose2836]

Wow, this gentleman is amazing and incredibly eclectic. What a treasure he is to preserve and re-purpose these items.

[@quintessenceblg]

We agree!

[@fl3693]

This home actually moved me emotionally. It is magic in it's literal sense. It transforms energy. Absolutely stunning.

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed!!

[@marlenegoho1778]

Fascinating! I just can’t wrap my head around how someone has all that stuff and keeps track of it! The yard and pool area…so beautiful. Thanks so much Susanna!

[@queens6583]

This is the kind of home that you may think you've noticed everything, but you don't. It is so uniquely discheveled in a way, but yet it makes beautiful sense. The grounds with the grotto and the exspansive lawns surrounded by field stone are perfection. I could putter around that property for years and never be bored. Thank Michael for sharing.

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes - lots to see and appreciate!

[@crowquilltarot]

I'll have to come back and leave a comment when I can catch my breath. It's breathtaking. All I can say right now is, "MORE."

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻🙏🏻😉❤️

[@teacatz3]

A true Treasure House -- and a handsome and charming host too!! Just imagine the wonderful parties here! Love every inch of the shop and his gorgeous home! And yes -- much love to the dog and the cat too! Love to hear the stories from a creative soul with a good heart for pets too! Thanks again for a perfect Holiday Gift! Just wish the videos were longer!! :)

[@mizzmolly7649]

His home looks like a European vacation destination...AND I'M LUSTING OVER IT!!!😍😍😍

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@PLuMUK54]

Never having been interested in sweets, I never really got the "like a child in a sweet shop", until now. I've finally found my sweet shop, and "I want one of those, and one of those, and oooh look at that!"

[@quintessenceblg]

Ha!! Great analogy! Enjoy!

[@marlenaeva3813]

I'm blown away by the creativity of Michael Trapp. That dinosaur skeleton suspended from the ceiling gives the room such a weird, quirky, artistic vibe. The whole place is fantastic. No wonder many people wanted to come inside. I wish I could visit this as well when in the US.

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed! Michael is a total original - with vision and endless creativity. Glad you enjoyed.

[@CB-jz2dn]

Please do a repeat & have Michael speak to a few subject pieces i.e Urns, Ceramic Vessels, glassware etc. He could open this site as a historic museum and people would come just as they visit the Louvre. It's beautiful!!!!

[@radicalaccounting]

that's an idea. He could charge for tours through his museum.

[@muhlaynee]

Even with all the stuff inside, he's managed to create very light spaces.

[@Madmogs1]

Ooooh I love Michael Trapp he's a dish! Just gorgeous and so gracious.

[@oliviacasino8888]

Right now, in a world where grocery shopping could be fraught with ‘dangers’ you, Susannna, have opened doors of wonders to my eyes to ponder and re-view. How valued your postings of Quintessence are to those who need this in their lives at this moment in time! Blessings to you, golden-haired girl.

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you so much! Stay safe and stay tuned for much inspiration!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much!! We are so happy to have filmed so much when it was safer!! Happy holidays! - Stacey (behind the camera)

[@sugarbomb26]

I'm speechless at the level of creativity and individuality! I can't say I've seen anything like this. Simply extraordinary!

[@quintessenceblg]

It truly is!!

[@ja-uh9gz]

I have to say....these home tour video series are the BEST. The most unique and unusual homes that I've seen...always a major treat! Thank you so much for this....and the homeowners who share their gorgeous homes with us! Happy Holidays!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much!! And wishing you a very happy holiday as well!

[@janemontgomery7571]

A piece of heaven on a cold gray morning. I’d never leave his storage barn….

[@quintessenceblg]

Ha!! I understand!!

[@PlanetTango]

I’m sitting here with my morning coffee on a foggy dreary morning, completely transported again by your wonderful tour. Best line: “I have a diver friend”. Those plates!!! Thank you Susanna and Stacey. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 💙🦋🦋

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!! So glad you loved visiting Michael!! Wishing you a Merry Christmas as well! - Stacey

[@The_Real_DreamM]

This man is a national treasure himself 💕

[@girlathebeach]

Michael's home and warehouse are truly captivating-I'm stunned and mesmerized.This may just be my fave episode. It's like a magical adventurous dream.

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed magical!

[@rosariomarques1]

Dinosaurs skeletons and hundreds of plates that came from a shipwreck. Wow. indeed a phantasy, a reality "out of the box" ♥

[@quintessenceblg]

Indeed it is!!

[@rosalindhambleton9012]

Bonjour Stacy and Suzanna, OMG it is rare but you find me almost speechless here. What an eye opener along with my coffee here this morning ! Treasures among treasures ; it is captivating, mesmerizing ! The grandiosity of it all is a lot to take in in that short visit. This represent heaven on earth : beautiful objects and stuff that tell a story. (lots of work to put all those together ) Magic moment! Many thanks mes chères amies for this wonderful visit ; it is so appreciated. This is like a Christmas gift in advance. Let me take this moment to wish you a Wonderful and Merry Christmas mes chères amies ! À bientôt, Bisous, -Rosalind- oxox

[@quintessenceblg]

Bonjour Rosalind!! Chez Michael is truly magical!! Wishing you a wonderful holiday! Thank you for your viewership! - Stacey

[@susannasalk7153]

Mille Mercis a toi!!!

[@suburbanhomestead]

That pediment still life of salvaged materials is genius!

[@PleasantPrickles]

What a talented man! So nice of him to invite us in to see his amazing treasures! I really enjoyed the tour. Thank you! 🌿🌿😃

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!

[@ronmansfield6888]

Wow I am so amazed by Michaels style and what a great humble guy. So many awesome ideas.

[@quintessenceblg]

He really is and yes, lots to spark the imagination!

[@EnfinLibreNM]

OH MY GOSH!!!! This is an amazing visit. Michael has a dramatic flair, however, his complete sense of whimsy shines through in each and every inch of his home(s). I can totally understand why people would want to come in and look around, however, I don't understand why they would be willing to invade his privacy. Once again Quintessence has opened the door to possibilities for us. Thank you Sussana and Stacey. 🙂

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! So glad you enjoyed!

[@barbarawillis5187]

Michael Trapp's eye for beauty and his openness to what is beautiful, interesting, and exciting is unique.. I will watch this video again and again. Susanna, I always love your fashion sense. I am inspired by your complete look in this video.

[@quintessenceblg]

So true re: Michael! And Susanna's lovely dress is by D'Ascoli!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you so much I’m so glad!

[@anttoronto3202]

Amazing home for an amazing gentleman!! Just WOW!!! Ladies, you never disappoint!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@quintessenceblg]

Thanks so much!!

[@rhodosi]

As a European living currently in Norway I am amazed how US designers are combining art and antiques of the old continent in a very well balanced and fantastic way. Thank you Susanna for showing us these people and their treasures, please do not stop, I find your videos inspirational to say the least.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much!! So pleased you enjoy our channel! - Stacey (behind the camera, the blog and the comments here)

[@LadyPenelope]

The beauty of this home, these treasure, makes me weep...truly a life well lived. We should all be so blessed.

[@quintessenceblg]

We agree!

[@raymondf3670]

What a Amazing home and he also a amazing designer the Quintessence team is so awesome they get amazing people with so much talent this is why l love and enjoy this channel so much.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much!! So glad you enjoy who we feature!

[@janetcorey5102]

I’m going to have to watch this several times. He’s a master of elegance, free spirited design and creates authentic beauty 🥂

[@soburlvt]

My family had a little weekend home in West Cornwall in the early 60s. I remember the town very well. it was a bustling little place back then. I remember the building that became Michael's shop. Behind Bearce's store.

[@mizzmolly7649]

How awesome!

[@ronir.belcheva3731]

Oh my, I would never want to leave. So many beautiful treasures. He's delightful! :)

[@moinature803]

I subscribe to hundred of channels, but you're my number one. I watch your videos at least twice of not more. I just love them.

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you so much it’s an honor to have you watch them multiple times!

[@quintessenceblg]

Well thank you so much!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@rebekkad.2092]

There were too many things for the eye to take in. I will have to watch this several times. What a fantasy land.

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed - enjoy your viewings!

[@deborahharris2962]

Does Michael need someone to dust, and play there. I love this place, so many interesting finds. Love, love, love ❤ 😍 💖

[@cindysand4012]

This is one of my favorite videos so far! I had to pause the moment I saw the suspended whale skeleton 🙀 simply inspirational!

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad!

[@franzsela3891]

I love the rustic and cluttered beauty of this house. Breathtaking!

[@TheFiown]

Now I know where I am going when I die, it's a tough choice between this place and Penny Morrisons estate ! Wow, all those plates and 16th century ! I would love to hear the back story of each piece and look at EVERYTHING ! Thank you girls xxxx Have a happy holiday both xxxx Hugs from France xxx

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure and great choices!! Happy holidays Stephanie!

[@Cherryshake]

I feel things while watching Susanna ascending those stairs in that dress. Wow. Looking good girl. 👏🏻

[@cheekyllamacreations]

Oh my goodness, I have no words. This was so fascinating! And Susanna, your dress is stunning!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you!! And Susanna’s dress is by D’Ascoli!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you D’Ascoli is the best!

[@claudiamandini]

These “Ambiences” deserve to be kept still. I need to pause the pod, to locate myself, take a look on each and every thing, which are mostly so eloquent by themselves! I imagine this can be called a Maximalism taken to an Extreme, the coherence is kept in a very unique way. So interesting and inspiring!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thanks so much! Delighted you enjoyed!

[@terrybear5398]

I wanted more! You could have done 3 hours and wouldn't be enough time to soak in this breathe taking, amazing space! I did not know who this person was. Now I will take a trip to learn, and see, more about this marvelous man and his magical mansion! Thank You!

[@quintessenceblg]

Michael is remarkable! So happy we could introduce you!!

[@richardgraham5598]

Like an Excursion to a far-off place. The grounds were magical, captivating and Serene. Michael's Design, artistic talent unparalleled. Thank you!!!!!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed!!

[@clairecar9390]

Magic! Wonderful beautiful magic! 💕

[@PrettyGoodLookin]

Thank You Michael. Great tour. Good taste and placement.

[@Fred__]

Wow! It’s just like some 60’s movie, that you enter a cave to discover a lost kingdom, a lost civilization, with all treasures, a youth lake and all that stuff. Really impressive.

[@quintessenceblg]

It really is! Glad you enjoyed!

[@ginnywoodhouse6350]

I love this channel! The opportunity to see this man's world is priceless.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much!! Michael is so gifted!

[@lisatague305]

I love Michael ! He needed a place for his stuff . Fabulous

[@quintessenceblg]

We do too!

[@shonabeggs4640]

Oh my gosh!, i actually want to rummage through every inch of that farm. How wonderful everything looks. Amazing❤

[@piedpiper7051]

To a collector that is Heaven on earth!

[@tigermoon44]

Put simply, I could live there forever!!!

[@jekalambert9412]

Michael's home and shop are like a beautiful living cabinet of curiosities. Thanks for this extraordinary video.

[@quintessenceblg]

Totally agree and our pleasure!

[@angela8858]

What a visionary ! Spectacular and beautiful…

[@roseypeach8363]

Oh boy I could spend my life savings at Michael's shop!

[@quintessenceblg]

Me too!

[@gailaspreen2520]

Wow, what a treasure trove in a gorgeous setting! Keep finding these amazing artists to visit, Susanna.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you - we. will! - Stacey (behind the camera)

[@2RedCrows]

Most of the time, they showcase beautiful houses and beautiful decoration. However, this…this is something else altogether and so unique. Thank you for the amazing and delightfully whimsical, breathtaking home.

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!

[@missybelmont9830]

What A Treat! AHHHMAZING! Can't believe this is in Connecticut. Thank you both for sharing, Fantastic video!

[@quintessenceblg]

Right?! Totally transportive! 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@janice5218]

Kisses & holiday hugs This is the yummiest snack ever. Pure joy getting to see his world. Love you’re having apples 🍎

[@danemorat3006]

Thank you for the early Christmas gift,over the top

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!

[@maxdominate2481]

Interior design brought to us from beyond this world.

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly!

[@bobolpatrick3789]

un univers mystérieux ,,envoutant et insolite, avec une dose de folie , tout ce que j'aime !

[@KitKat24531]

Oh my is this beautiful!, He’s amazing at what he does. Susanna as usual is very lovely in every way, thank you for this awesome tour!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you for watching and for your wonderful words

[@quintessenceblg]

You are so welcome!

[@okayheykae]

Oh wow, this place is amazing, I think I could spend weeks looking around! I love how natural and grounded everything feels. And he has such a calming energy.

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes!

[@billhayward1585]

that was my favorite of all your locations. Really liked the opening shot in the covered bridge. Keep up the good work.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thanks so much!

[@pinkroses8714]

I just loved his gardens !!!

[@Plantsbaby61]

What a dream come true for any collector.So many beautiful curiositys

[@ronwren1]

This made my brain explode with desire.I'm going shopping.I have a new vision how I'd like my home to look.Stunning!

[@quintessenceblg]

Delighted to hear that!!

[@robertalaprade5612]

WOW...jaw dropping..amazing!! Looks like Europe. Thanks for allowing us a peek in!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!! 🙏🏻

[@metropcs7560]

Amazing, I am going to have to see this video again!!! So wonderful, the treasures, vases, chandeliers, hangings. OoooLaLA

[@quintessenceblg]

Lots to look at!!

[@michaelroark2019]

I love the use of architectural antiques for a house, especially the numerous classical elements, such as columns. When I built my retirement home on the Olympic peninsula nine years ago, I had a number of architectural antiques incorporated to give an atmospheric aging to a modern structure. When one uses architectural antiques, there is a necessity of creativity to try to make them fit together. The most unique example in my house is in the upper room which was designed to overlook Discovery Bay, a fjord. I had bought a wardrobe top that is at the cathedral ceiling and an oak mantel at the base. An elongated rounded window is in center of the wall. How to tie them together was the challenge? It required columns. I also used antique tiles below the window, some American, some Spanish from Seville. The point is that the requirement of creativity in the use of architectural antiques is worth so much. You can create something that is unique, a word often overused, but is worth the attempt when achieved. Last point is a comment on the gardens. His use of conifers to create vertical is important. Of course it goes back to Italian Mediterranean gardens, but he lives in Connecticut! He had to use hardier conifers to achieve the effect. It is interesting that there is a parallel between his interior space in using columns for verticularity and his exterior vertical elements in the use of conifers. Overall, an impressive result in design, both for the interior and exterior!

[@susannasalk7153]

So appreciate your thoughtful and insightful comments and enthusiasm thank you so much for watching and I’m so glad you are inspired by Michael as we are

[@quintessenceblg]

Couldn't agree more! I know it is important to Michael to integrate the inside and exteriors which as you point out, he has done so successfully. Your house sounds marvelous - so glad you found a kindred spirit in Michael!

[@cassandraralph5906]

Fascinating, just Fascinating! One would never get bored in a place like this particular one! I also think someone with a cat and a dog is someone who has real humanity! Susanna, I love your dress and jacket! Also you quite happily munching on an apple! Delightfully you! Keep up with the great work!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you!! Michael is fueled by a curiosity!! So glad you enjoyed! / Stacey

[@cassandraralph5906]

@@quintessenceblg , Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you!!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

@@cassandraralph5906 Thank you Cassandra - and to you!

[@buenavidaestates-livingthe6333]

Thank you so much for this special tour! I have tearsheets of that incredible grotto and the angel over the dining table going back I think 30 years and I had forgotten it was Michael Trapp who created them but the images stuck with me forever. To this day I have never seen a better grotto. Thank you for showing the rest of his Wonderland. Amazing!

[@quintessenceblg]

You are so welcome! Michael is amazing!

[@missybelmont9830]

Michael is an amazing, romantic, hard working artist!

[@quintessenceblg]

SO true!!

[@EvelynDHaene]

I absolutely love your videos and find myself looking forward to the next one each week. I'm so glad that you filmed and uploaded a new episode today,. Thank you so much for sharing

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! Thank YOU for watching!!

[@JLOinthecity]

what an interesting and stylish man and artist who lives his art and inspires

[@vickiwood6385]

THANK YOU so very much introducing me to the incredibly beautiful world of Michael Trapp. Such an inspirational experience and such a gentle understated man. His kindness can be felt all the way across the ocean in Australia, no wonder so many beautiful pieces wanted to be found by him!

[@montgomerycamjr]

Absolutely INCREDIBLE!!! I am amazed that one human being can be that creative!!!!!!! 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed!

[@colleengiese]

Wonderful human & Suzanna as well. Respect you both.

[@neweverymorningmercy3491]

Can you imagine, really poking around to see what all the treasures are? I was quite taken with the stone fence around the property, something about those stone fences always thrills me.

[@jksherwin]

This is spectacular! Thank you. I love discovering treasures through your eyes. If only we could tag along behind....

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you!! We hope this is the next best thing!

[@loriwinters9999]

Thank you for this window into a fantastic world. Such breathtaking rooms and collection 😍

[@quintessenceblg]

It really is!