At Home with Christopher Spitzmiller on his idyllic country retreat Clove Brook Farm

During the week, gifted ceramicist and lamp designer Christopher Spitzmiller is busy creating his exquisite lamps, tableware and accessories found in all the chicest homes including the White House. But weekends find him at Clove Brook Farm, his country retreat in Dutchess County, NY where he is always actively tending his flocks, gardening and entertaining. In celebration of his book, A Year at Clovebrook Farm, we revisited Chris who shares the many updates to the property as well as tips on gardening, cooking and baking. Tag along as Chris shows us his expansive garden, flocks of animals and new pool house. Learn how he has translated ideas from his many mentors, from legendary decorators Albert Hadley, Mario Buatta and Bunny Williams to Martha Stewart. Watch as Chris takes us in the kitchen to share some favorite recipes. And listen to how Chris is constantly learning how to expand his knowledge and live the life he has always wanted at his idyllic Clove Brook Farm . You’ll be inspired, informed and entertained!! For more visit quintessenceblog.com
to buy Christopher's book - www.amazon.com...

[@sunshine32151]

What a wonderful man Chris is, I enjoyed just listening to him speak. One of my favorite videos

[@quintessenceblg]

We agree! And glad you enjoyed!

[@nancykahn4125]

We need beauty in this time of ugliness...thank you!

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed and our pleasure!!

[@deboraheb1]

Yes! That chicken recipe is great.. made it tonight , yummmm Love this channel🙏🏼💕

[@nathalienurse3336]

Hey one I have not seen, such a lovely life style. All that fresh produce so healthy. What a gracious host, yes I would also like to lie in the sun on that lovely purple couch.........🤗🇨🇦

[@pamcornelius9122]

You have the best intro of any You Tube channel ever! “Better than restaurant” chicken recipe starts at 4:50.

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you so much!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

THANK YOU!!

[@montgomerycamjr]

The beauty he has created on that farm is absolutely breathtaking! And hella INTIMIDATING!!! 😄😁😆

[@quintessenceblg]

LOL - Chris has worked and learned diligently!!

[@olaalola6730]

that pool house is literally the place I could spend daysssssss just sipping some tea and reading...😍

[@quintessenceblg]

The pool house is amazing!!

[@tinaandaaronreeves8873]

@@quintessenceblg yq+

[@lynnpetti3817]

In the new book “Beyond Order “ one chapter is , Try to Make one room in your house as beautiful as possible. Beauty is connected to the Devine . You help feed and inspire that need of the soul. Thank you.

[@VelvetandToads]

“To be a relaxed host, that’s the most important thing” so true. Can’t wait to entertain again. In the meantime, these videos are such a breath of fresh air. Thank you. 🙏🏻

[@quintessenceblg]

You are so welcome! So glad you enjoy!!

[@tigermoon44]

Nothing like enjoying my weekend and then a notice that Quintessence has posted another video to make it better! Imagine being able to live in that beautiful environment and just be! Learning to hang at home and really enjoying it is such an art. May we all become experts!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thanks so much and yes, Christopher is an inspiring example to us all!!

[@patrobinson6943]

This video made me very happy and appreciative of my much less lifestyle.

[@quintessenceblg]

Delighted to hear!

[@ginafriend1690]

That was a treat .. from inside to out 💐 Thanks!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank YOU!! So glad you enjoyed!!

[@andrewbrendan1579]

There is so much beauty and so much going on and so much being shared at Clove Brook Farm! What a great place. It's just glimpsed in the video but a detail I especially liked was the sky-blue ceiling of the front porch.---Susanna, you had excellent observations and questions for Christopher. I would enjoy an extended, sit-down interview between the two of you, maybe out in the garden or in front of a fireplace and OF COURSE with cookies!

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes, I was sure to include that detail! Susanna always asks great questions! Glad you enjoyed! - Stacey (behind the camera)

[@moinature803]

My bi-weekly slice of civility! A very welcome respite in a not so pretty world.

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad to offer a slice of beauty and inspiration!

[@alannothnagle]

Yes, I see it the same way. It's like a 10-minute vacation to a better existence - brief, but just long enough to remind us that there is a better one still out there.

[@janetcorey5102]

I’m sorry, it was all to short. I needed to see more of everything! Thank you❤️

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure and we are so glad we left you wanting more!!

[@MariaTheGreat]

The colors of your flowers are pure happiness, even the color of the couch in front of your pool house. I love what you’re doing and thank you for showing it to us!

[@quintessenceblg]

We love what Christopher does too! Glad you enjoyed!

[@helenpruzan6970]

I just want to sit in that garden and never move.Heaven!💖

[@quintessenceblg]

Me too!

[@kandisue1753]

Thank you for sharing! LoVe Clove Brook Farm, everything looks so inviting the home, the grounds, the food, the flowers, the fur babies and the hosts! LoVe your dress!

[@quintessenceblg]

You are so welcome! Susanna's dress is by D'Ascoli!

[@drewgayle8325]

he should have a u-tube chanel to do recipes and plant arrangement

[@janetcorey5102]

Yes, he needs to make videos! What fun that would be❤️

[@anamt585]

Exactlllyyy

[@cliffordl.4022]

I love Quintessence. Thank you for bringing us into the incredible homes and lives of brilliant people.

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! And thank YOU for watching (and hopefully subscribing)!

[@memedavis4228]

I'm so happy you went back to Christopher's farm !! I could watch hour's of his video's. Thank you so much !!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!! There's so much new to share!

[@kathrincichos3114]

Hach, what a nice journey for my soul! These flowers..... Amazing! Thank U! Lovely greetings from germany, your big fan KATHRIN

[@quintessenceblg]

Vielen dank Kathrin 💫

[@PtolemyXVII]

Love the vegetable garden and the pool for the swans! ❤️

[@conniepleasantnails]

I totally want to try his SUPER SIMPLE 😳 chicken recipe ... this guy is fabulous in SO any ways. The cute dogs, that awesome art on the walls, the white & blue ceramics, the garden please don’t tell me he can knit & crochet and speak 5 languages. I’m a farm girl at ♥️

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed - and there are more recipes in the book!

[@carlyh6913]

Wow, I could watch endless footage of this farm, inside and out. Just gorgeous. And the happy wagging tails of the doggers always makes me smile, you can tell they love when their dads have company over (10x the pats probably)

[@anamt585]

I wishhhhh i was his neighbour His food is amazing and he sounds so kind and genuine

[@HouseandGardensPamelaMCurtis]

Absolutely stunning and beautiful! Charming 🌳❤🌳

[@netrakulkarni5253]

Wow lovely talent and home God bless!

[@StillWaters56]

I luv everything about this human Mr. Christopher, he have such an ora and calm...

[@Eric-kf6dy]

I bet being a potter he has to remain pretty calm to avoid calamities.

[@christopherspitzmiller4030]

Thank you so much for such a sweet comment!

[@carinapowney7512]

I ordered the book. I love everything about this video especially the dahlias I am growing from seed this year in the UK

[@quintessenceblg]

You will love the book and good luck with your dahlias!

[@allisonle8596]

the fence is absolutely gorgeous!

[@Ren-xc1cb]

Absolutely LOVE THIS!! LOVE Fanny's ancestral portraits!

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad!! And aren’t they great?!

[@williamarmstrong3604]

Really fabulous ! Such a wonderful life style. Christopher,adorable. Would have liked to see more of Anthony!!!!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Chris is so talented - as is Anthony - we love him too!

[@autywon]

Ugh. I'm obsessed. Gardening, cooking, decor ❤️

[@quintessenceblg]

Me too!! Glad you enjoyed!

[@carolebuckle7977]

This garden is very “ English Country “ great looking love from England 🇬🇧❤️xx

[@PlanetTango]

Valorie Hart here...This is the stuff dreams are made of. Thank you Stacy and Susanna for another wonderful video. And yes, I will get Christopher’s book. xo xo

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure and thank YOU Valorie! Chris is truly an inspiration!

[@kathybauman6708]

LOVED EVERYTHING, beautiful beautiful!! Gentlemen of so many talents. Thanks to ALL for sharing, I'll be watching this a few more times. Special place indeed🌄

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed and yes, they are both so talented!

[@EEN63]

Such a gorgeous country home with glorious gardens! I particularly like the dog’s heritage gallery! How fun and beautiful! 🥰😍🥰

[@quintessenceblg]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Zluka-Kluka]

0:39 the beautiful overview of the farm

[@RS-jq6pp]

I love what he said when he said "That's the important thing to be a relaxed host; that is the best host." What a charming, creative man. His garden is beautiful too, I never would have thought to put a border of Russian sage with Dahlias behind; how unexpected and pretty.

[@quintessenceblg]

I agree - so glad you enjoyed!

[@lanusik1000]

Suzanna is always so positive - always finding something to praise :)) love her videos

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes she is! And so glad you love our series!

[@ruthhovsepian]

❤️❤️❤️ What a beautiful "farm". This video was quite different from past ones, I enjoyed it just as much as past ones. Thanks again for an amazing opportunity to visit people and places I will never in a lifetime see personally! ❤️❤️❤️

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!! So glad you enjoyed!

[@KarenJWhyte]

I’ll move in! Deliciously stunning.

[@DD-hy1nl]

What a beautiful garden and home...I really love that cork box, that is so Cool!

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@rosalindhambleton9012]

Bonjour, bonjour, bonjour Susanna and Stacy ! Wow, I have been so busy, I almost did not see this video on my playlist. What an interesting person is this Christopher. From what I know of him (because of you, ladies) I can say that this kind of person is my favorite. I would define him as " A true lover of life" !!! He has the curiosity to learn many different things, he does not just read about those, he tries them and, most importantly, he fails and he tries again. This is my kind of person : he loves art, cooking, obviously decoration, house being so lovely and lively as well. The garden is beautiful as is the garden house. His appreciation for learning and LIVING life, makes him a very nice and interesting human being ! Love to you my friends, thanks for sharing such a lovely person with us. A bientôt, Rosalind. (( bisous ))

[@eeerik79]

Ten plus minutes! Of pure bliss! Thank you!

[@GuilfordGardenCT]

I just bought his book. Absolutely talented and can't wait for it to be released on March 9th. Stunning garden and home:)

[@quintessenceblg]

You will LOVE it!! The book is SO good!!

[@GuilfordGardenCT]

@@quintessenceblg I can't wait as I am so excited :)

[@kimstahl6833]

What is the name of the book?

[@GuilfordGardenCT]

@ymarrero23 You shall one day own a home and his books are so inspiring:).

[@quintessenceblg]

@@kimstahl6833 All about the book is in the intro to the video...

[@jstokes]

There are always things to learn in each Quintessence episode, usually about design, but here I also was struck how he makes notes on what works, and what does not work. Practice and experience does make perfect. I also love how he says the most important thing is to be a relaxed host, and you can just do your own version of a recipe, or gardening, or design, etc. He also is so engaging and charming, and kind, and I loved the two of you together chatting and enjoying each other's company. Very special.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much! So glad you enjoyed Christopher and gleaned so much from the episode! Inspire and inform is our goal and agree, Susanna and Chris had such a lovely time together!

[@girle5584]

A much more soulful way of being in the world I'm sure most would prefer.

[@DeannaPiercy]

That was almost too beautiful for words. I'm ordering his book!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you and you will LOVE the book!

[@hrhpaula6067]

What a fun, beautiful life Mr. Christopher lives. Love his home and his energy!

[@melilifabulosa5505]

What an inspiration! Clearly he is always learning, growing, and appreciating the beauty he's creating around him.

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes he is!! It is so impressive!

[@sirgnome1114]

What a perfect video for a cold day in March! Those flowers...those cookies...that house. And what a gentleman! Oh, Susanna! You have a tough. job! Thanks.

[@quintessenceblg]

We do feel lucky to be able to share these beautiful homes and the talents behind them!! - Stacey (behind the camera)

[@sirgnome1114]

What a team you make...to travel to fun places together and to be able to count on one another!

[@BuckWinthrop]

Christopher is everything 👌🏻

[@Cenepk101]

That was awesome ! Looking forward to receiving his new book !!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

You will love the book! Glad you enjoyed!

[@dresqueda]

I love it! The colors, the style...everything.

[@rosepaetzke2933]

I haven't watched your channel for a while. Oh my goodness did I enjoy what you had to share today! Thank you so much💖 XOXO

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure!! Be sure to check out what you’ve missed!

[@vbachman6742]

Those cast iron skillets make my southern heart beat faster!

[@katecrowley1858]

Just beautiful. The garden, the house, the food but the animals were the "icing on the cake". Thank you very much. X

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! Glad you enjoyed it

[@annolsen4943]

Chistopher comes across as someone who treats kings and paupers with the same dignity. I love his can do approach. He is an inspiration for all budgets. Thanks for another fabulous visit.

[@quintessenceblg]

So true and so well put! So glad you enjoyed!

[@leslikuyweski4576]

The flowers, the colors! Stunning!

[@henricalitri3251]

This place is just beautiful. I love everything. Especially the garden and the pool house too.

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@colette8694]

Love this video so down to earth and you running at the end was the best part 👏

[@amyweaver7413]

A paradise- such a lovely home and lifestyle. ❤️😊🇨🇦

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed! Glad you enjoyed!

[@christophemarcelis3965]

Très très beau, un Havre de calme et de beauté, félicitations pour toutes vos vidéos somptueuses et raffinée. Vraiment délicieux pour les yeux ! ! Merci de nous fairedécouvrir tous ces magnifiques lieux! Christophe

[@susannasalk7153]

Milles mercis!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure - so glad you enjoyed!

[@hongfeizhao5709]

Beautiful garden with full of blessing.....

[@eduardoramirezjr4403]

I get so happy when notification arrives. Also, may I say , your dress is absolutely beautiful.

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you!! It’s from D’Ascoli!

[@carograce4111]

HEAVENLY On SO many levels Thank you Ladies

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure - so glad you enjoyed visiting Clove Brook farm!

[@crowquilltarot]

Oh dear. I’m in love. With everything and everyone. And yay! - almost eleven minutes...but who’s counting...

[@quintessenceblg]

LOL! So glad you loved!!

[@tslilbearshoppe9870]

Love the gardens and the pool area

[@toddh377]

Beautiful residence. Loved the color of the pool house outside couch. The dove coup was cool 😊

[@Usernameusername206]

The pool house is a dream!!

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed!

[@dianasargent4861]

Thank you . I loved the wall of his Dogs family and history. I must watch this again there was much to see and all the wonderful conversations.

[@quintessenceblg]

Lots of inspiration and ideas - glad you enjoyed!

[@Thamikaroxy]

Very enjoyable and fresh visit for those of still up to our shoulders in snow!

[@quintessenceblg]

🙏🏻 Spring is on its way!!

[@Morenita570]

That stove was perfection and the blue sweater super tight.

[@galacticboomflyer2307]

Love love love this beautiful country retreat! I would live there year round if I was him. His garden areas are just amazing and gives out great vibes. I have to get his book now!

[@quintessenceblg]

It is beautiful - and he does live there year round - but is also in NYC. You will love the book!

[@jillsharpweeks910]

Christopher - you’ve created such an inspiring home + farm layered with veg, flowers, homemade chicken, dogs, artwork from Marianne + the chicest oval pool sitting in front of my favorite pool house EVER! Can’t wait to buy buy buy your book to give to people I adore - thank you for a really magic experience seeing inside your creative brain!

[@quintessenceblg]

Isn't it just so inspiring?! Not surprised it resonated with you! You will love the book! xx

[@arela1030]

Wow so much gorgeous beautiful lovely farmhouse.everything is fresh organic.Thank you so much perfect presentation.i can breath excellent medicine to our soul and heart 💙🦋⭐️🍷🍷🍷🍷Lets cheers 🥂.

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! Cheers!

[@dawnitalutz1953]

I think this was my favorite house/garden. So beautiful and nice host.

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad to hear that!! Chris is a delight!

[@fancycat]

Everything is absolutely beautiful 😍

[@Eric-kf6dy]

I love this his design references and mentors all classic but then he puts his unique spin on everything from cookies to purple upholstery on patio furniture. Off to order his book.

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly!! Snd you will love the book!

[@susanchappell796]

Another Fabulous informative video. Thanks ladies. Im living vicariously through you.

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! Thanks for watching!!

[@victoriamohan8827]

I so enjoyed this video. thank you ladies for continuing with this channel!

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! So glad you enjoy!

[@rachelkruitbosch3156]

The geese at the end.. ❤️

[@dhgemein2]

This is a very welcome video for 2 reasons: a) we get to see this house again; b) we get to see to see some summer scenery in this early spring that feels like midwinter (where I am, anyway).

[@quintessenceblg]

LOL - it's still quite brisk where I live as well! Glad you enjoyed!

[@LifestyleByB]

I preordered his book, can't wait to receive it............ Beautiful home and garden!!!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

It's so good - you will love!

[@nicole_beaumont]

Everything is so tastefully done.. that pool house is amazing! 😍

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed! And yes, the pool house is amazing!

[@billcachetada]

My favorite KZbin channel.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much!!

[@kaylamson5161]

This house!!!❤️thank you ! God bless!🙏

[@quintessenceblg]

You are so welcome

[@abelalemanara6504]

Adorable!!!💕

[@TheMaiah13]

That garden..oh my goodness!

[@michaelmercurio2312]

another beautiful and inspirational home. Thanks for sharing.

[@quintessenceblg]

You are so welcome!

[@marialinares7809]

wonderful artists, thank you for giving beauty to our lives, for sharing the beauty of living beautifully ❤️❤️

[@gardengirl6854]

What a lovely home.

[@soniatriana9091]

This was a totally enjoyable video. Your host was so relaxed & happy! As was Suzanna!

[@quintessenceblg]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@alannothnagle]

Wow, another lovely treat from Susanna and Stacey! Particularly in these times of quarantine, when - at least here in Europe - we basically aren't supposed to go anywhere or do anything, these videos always represent a delightful mini-vacation to an esthetic world. And for those of us planning to launch exciting new projects once the pandemic is over, homes like Christopher's here provide rich inspiration. Please keep them coming!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much!! Chris is certainly an inspiration and so glad we can provide an escape during these difficult times! Stay tuned - a new episode every month!

[@GDName]

It's a beautiful home and garden... I love the swan lake and the doves for pets. I wish I could live here or own something like it :D

[@Ferdy1969]

A man of many talents, beautiful cooking, harmonious decorating, vigorous gardner...I wish could marry him !!!

[@lucyzhu2968]

Delicious food, fantastic collections, wow England cottage garden

[@anasofialulo7808]

PRECIOSO vestido!!,que casa tan linda,a mi gusto,da alegría y FELICIDAD

[@marcellejohnson4868]

He is a mentor to me. I've been dreaming for years to have my own small farm with my family and seeing how his farm has grown and the tips,tricks and experimentation inspires me on how to approach it. Lovely video and always a lovely home.

[@quintessenceblg]

I am so happy to hear that! Christopher is all about sharing his own inspiration and knowledge!