At Home in the Country with Gil Schafer

Tag along for a behind the scenes visit to architect Gil Schafer's iconic Greek Revival country house, Middlefield, in upstate New York. Here Gil translates the rules of classic architecture for modern living, creating a new old house perfect for those who love timeless style but modern conveniences. For more visit quintessenceblog.com

[@erikellis5940]

I cannot tell you how many times I have seen this video. I catch something new every time. Gil is ridiculously talented

[@judithkuney1766]

Mr. Schafer, your house is to die for. the energy it gives are so soulful and calming.

[@cargogh]

When you're discussing the cuttings on the kitchen mantel, I'm looking at the fireplace surround and paneling thinking it appears a hundred years older than the previous room. Thirty seconds later he explains just that. Mr. Schafer doesn't miss the minutiae. This house is so perfectly authentic, I bet it smells old. Brilliant.

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed - and I didn't think it smelled old but certainly feels it!

[@sokosoko6543]

This house is so dreamy. WOW 💕💕

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Isn't it?! We think so too!!

[@CajunLady333]

Love the side glassed garden room. Love the shed and the straps on the door. So cute. It looks like an old timey school house.

[@cameliafranco2630]

OMG is absolutely beautiful that's MY DREAM HOME every single detail Lovett everything from the chickens to the goats and the beautiful rose arches all the details in the house decorations Furniture I just love everything very French Mediterranean loving place to be. And that way he addressed it exactly the right words🐎🌈

[@janiec3915]

This house is so perfect! I too love older homes and this house definitely has that old look and feel being new. It really does look as if it has been there for decades. The light and the flow of the rooms is so nice where with older homes, a lot of the rooms are boxy and closed off. Thank you for sharing!

[@quintessenceblg]

Janie B-C Our pleasure!! Glad you enjoyed!! You might enjoy Gil’s book The Great American House with many of his similarly evocative projects!

[@justingodeo5076]

I looked at this because of a photo of the gardens I had seen, but the whole project is beautiful, beginning to love all of deb nevins work

[@quintessenceblg]

Justin go deo yes it is and she is very talented!

[@justingodeo5076]

@@quintessenceblg I live in Ireland, I would love to work with the people that do such beautiful creations. All of her gardens look perfect for their surroundings, all so unique, I would never tire of looking at them, and they all look uncomplicated, which makes them even more appealing. Thanks to all concerned for letting us see these amazing projects, long may they continue such great work xx

[@Rickbla]

That would be my DREAM home. Beautiful and the layout is perfect.

[@carobinsonrobinson3109]

Wow, just wow!!!

[@jmcneil4891]

Beautiful. Love it. Please upload more often.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you! Will do our best!

[@carolking6355]

That has to be my favourite. It also stops me from feeling guilty. I have a table loaded with books and walls covered in paintings collected overrour 58 years of marriage. I adore my plants and feel embarrassed when told it clutters the house. I can see my darling 120 year old home is happy with inside and hedges outside. Thank you for such beauty. ❤️

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! So glad you love Gil's beautiful home too!!

[@bethgrove2636]

A masterpiece! Thanks very much for the tour.

[@fox39forever]

Lovely house and a cheerful atmosphere comes through!

[@DD-hy1nl]

I love that painting over the fireplace, it is so lovely! Nice job creating a old home from a brand new one! Very clever indeed, if it wasn't told, no one would ever know.

[@elainemorandidasilvasoares7500]

This house is amazing !

[@RjsHome]

My fave of all your videos!

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you love! I've adored Gil's house for YEARS!!

[@jeaninewalsh5120]

Lovely, every detail is perfect! 💖

[@peterdale8929]

Jaw dropingly gorgeous.

[@nathalienurse3336]

WOW perfection!

[@Madmogs1]

The Miles Redd website is to die for, one of the nicest websites I have ever seen.

[@quintessenceblg]

Miles is a true talent and you'll be happy to hear that a video with him is coming in 2018!

[@laurasc6880]

heaven

[@TheFiown]

Whatever negatif things people can say about americans there is one thing that they do better than anyone in the world and that is build homes and landscape them so that they look like they always existed but at the same time meet modern standards ,,, here in Europe no one could afford to do this and if they did it jsut would not work ,,,,, the outside of this house in fantastic ,,, full time gardener lawn mowers !!!! but so Worth it ,,,, and the impecable taste ,,, zero fault ,,,, congratulations.

[@quintessenceblg]

Impeccable - totally agree!

[@davidcattin7006]

Practically perfect, but I would have an upstairs porch.

[@michaelandpandorawan227]

So Fabulous✨What is the wallpaper in the guest room. I am thinking vintage Colfax and Fowler????

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes, it is Colefax but a pattern still available today - Bowood!

[@TheCMLion]

Now THAT is a new house done right! I often see new houses with no character trying to have an old feeling but failing miserably. I love the 'imperfect perfect' idea! What a magnificent home!

[@quintessenceblg]

Couldn't agree more! Glad you enjoyed!

[@richiesd1]

TheCMLion, looks messy to me. I think they do it better in Europe, adding modern to old, and vice versa. Why do Americans like to imitate old? I am American, btw.

[@CameronCourts]

@@richiesd1 I think it's wonderful when done right. This is done right. Like TheCMLion said, so many homes that go for the old world look end up looking like cheap knock-offs.

[@clairetremblay3023]

@@CameronCourts Yes and inside they look strange because all the details does not fit with the rest! Plus somethimes they add a modern kitchen!! :( A desaster with no charm indeed...

[@TheJohasir]

@@richiesd1 It's just my opinion, but I think people try to imitate old 'cause what you call "old" (antique=past) talks abaut a history and the beautiful, why not, of past. Modern is beautiful too of course, but modern is an evolution of past, so if you apreciate past, not just old, you cuold apreciate modern from diferent focus. Best regards.

[@MTMF.london]

This man has great taste and serious money to back it. I just love the way he said he "dropped" the biggest tree he could find into his garden.

[@quintessenceblg]

MT Yankin And so talented!!

[@andreapirringer7008]

I would be interested in how he got the tree in the garden ...

[@katieharris412]

What a lovely house. It has everything: color, relics, antiques, & thoughtful layout. What a treat!

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes it does! Glad you enjoyed!

[@HillHouseVintage]

Absolute perfection and probably my favourite home featured so far!

[@danieltodeschini8268]

This is my favourite house in this channel, I even bought Gil Schafer's book after watching it. Too bad Stacy didn't made a documentary of this house like Susanna suggested in the beginning of this video :)

[@quintessenceblg]

So very glad you loved Gil's house as much as I do! So glad you bought the book - hope you enjoy!! And take a look at Gil's website - lots of inspiration there as well!

[@dboi149]

Such a beauty! The fact that the owner gave it so much character is divine. The quirkiness and his personal touches turned this house into a home. I love an old house obviously. It gives me joy to watch your videos and I always look forward to the next one. Thank you and good job!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much Danny! Totally agree about the house!

[@franzsela3891]

Quintessence has taught me to appreciate unconventional, shabby and cluttered yet amazing designs that are reflective of personal style. Susana Salk’s attention to details is remarkable from the furnitures and decors to fabrics. I never get tired of watching the episodes over and over agin.

[@quintessenceblg]

Not sure I would call any of the designs shabby but thank you - our goal is to give (a wide variety) of design a voice. And yes, Susanna is a great host - we are both delighted you come back to watch again and again! - Stacey (behind the camera)

[@franzsela3891]

Quintessence What I meant were the antique and rustic furnitures like the threadbare chair you featured in this episode....Normally, it should have been reupholstered but because of its sense of history, the owner decided to leave it like that.

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly!! Thank you for clarifying - and for your repeat visits!!

[@adrianfu3048]

Indeed I found this during lockdown .. Beautiful way to spend some quiet evening

[@ellalarkin1016]

Beautiful house. Very genteel 'Old South' feel to it; the view out to the ceiling-fan, the gorgeous wall-covering on the bedroom walls, the lightness of the draperies, and the lovely kitchen. Gil has beautiful taste.

[@gailolds1255]

What an incredible new-old house. Best of both worlds. Everything about this house feels old but living in a new environment which is amazing. Thank you for sharing your ideas.

[@quintessenceblg]

Gail Olds Gil is a master at bringing the past forward in a totally authentic way. Glad you enjoyed!

[@michaelj3504]

The perfect house. Incredible charm and coziness and livability. Every single thing feels right perhaps especially the endless green that surrounds this magnificent home.

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed!! Glad you enjoyed!

[@sangokyoon2902]

Amazing! Beyond my discription.well cared and designed garden looks best in the whole world .gives you Thumb up!very anxious to see fall colors.

[@quintessenceblg]

It is amazing! So glad you enjoyed!

[@ramelep]

Love the layers! The balance of old and New... Brilliant

[@quintessenceblg]

Me too!!

[@missybelmont9830]

The perfect New England interiors!!! Beautiful, elegant, unpretentious. Well done!

[@quintessenceblg]

We agree!

[@elisabethlinz4256]

So gorgeous!!! The proprietor who tells the story of his house in such a kind and open way... The impressive traditional (but new) house, the marvellous garden and landscape surrounding the house and last not least attractive and empathetic Susanna... always engaging her hosts easily in an interesting conversation.

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed!!

[@elisabethlinz4256]

@@quintessenceblg thank you!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you!!!!

[@tyxeri48]

Definitely one of my favorite houses.Excellent use of colours, wise interpretation of the classical architecture and there's an unpretentious result. I have just discovered this channel and I am impressed. I really love the originality of the houses and the uniqueness of the owners.

[@quintessenceblg]

Welcome to Quintessence!! Totally agree with all your comments - one of my favorite houses as well! Look forward to seeing your comments on other episodes!

[@lisafox3907]

Gorgeous

[@brandonburrell8517]

Greek Revival is the most romantic. Awesome home, inside and out. Another terrific video. Love this channel.

[@rachellafreniere720]

What a wonderful « new » old house.... when can we see the full documentary?😉 Once again ladies, another amazing house and video! Congratulations and thank you 😀

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you - so glad you enjoyed. It's one of my all time favorite houses!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you Rachel!!!!!!

[@tpittenger8]

Wow! One of the greatest videos you have! I'm in love with this house.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you Troy! It's a house that's easy to love!

[@maree-mareesongwriter6226]

What a gorgeous country home and estate. He really has achieved the look and feel of an old stately house, mixed with modern luxury, flow and practicality. The interior décor and design are so warm, comfortable and aesthetic, traditional but not stuffy. Superb grounds and gardens. Upstate New York looks like such a beautiful place to live!

[@bohemiansantiques4222]

Truly incredible to see a Greek Revival new build filled with beautiful period antiques! Among my favorite pieces: the carved pineapple bed in the master bedroom, and the Empire secretary desk in the living room! Truly spectacular!

[@quintessenceblg]

Bohemian's Antiques Isn’t it amazing? Thank you!!

[@oltedders]

Nice recreation, but the borderline hoarding is off putting.

[@quintessenceblg]

I wouldn't consider this anywhere near borderline hoarding but I guess it's a matter of opinion.

[@oltedders]

Quintessence I did the staging for high end estate sales for 7 years. I see what others dont. I'm not suggesting that a intervention is in order. The man owns enough to outfit a 2nd house.

[@SilverCharmbracelet]

oltedders, this is not hoarding. Everything in this home has its place and looks completely fabulous.

[@sylvanramble1757]

Absolutely gorgeous house and garden. Big yet cozy. I loved hearing about why different choices were made such as the windows being inline with the doorways to provide more light, and the stone walls and hedges defining the territory. A feast for the eyes and a learning experience, too. Thank you!

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed!! Gil is so talented - we were delighted to be able to share his home and insights!

[@yvonnerahmes9618]

I could live out my days here. I sent this to my dh so we can watch it together and discuss it. It is one of the most beautiful homes I have ever seen, the landscaping is- divine is not a good enough word. My head is spinning, how lucky he is to have made this happen in his life! My 2nd video from Quintessence, loving it!

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes - such a timeless classic!! And welcome - hope you'll check out more episodes - and consider subscribing if you like!

[@yvonnerahmes9618]

@@quintessenceblg oh yes, I subscribed directly after I watched my 1st video of yours in Charleston, SC (with Jill Shap Weeks). So glad to find you!

[@alfrancis8]

I could just live in that sun room alone... phew!

[@quintessenceblg]

@@yvonnerahmes9618 thank you!

[@quintessenceblg]

@@alfrancis8 Yup!

[@annolsen4943]

wow--this is one beautiful home. Exquisite taste.

[@wildlifephil]

And the garden too is simple but beautiful and grand at the same time

[@quintessenceblg]

wildlifephil Yes, the property is gorgeous - designed by the brilliant Deborah Nevins.

[@susankelley8969]

I was. Happy. When. I. Seen. Same. Indoor. Paint. Colors. In. My. Home. Of course. His. Home. Is. Much. Grander. Lol

[@goodboybuddy1]

That was really cool. All he needs is a dog!

[@twistoffate4791]

Or two!!!

[@Justmyopinionlol]

Noooo!!!! You need more time on HIS GARDEN OMG!!!

[@maximhollandnederlandthene7640]

Wow, all inspired out of many other houses and creativity. 😊👏

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻 glad you enjoyed!

[@PtolemyXVII]

This home is a writer's haven! ❤️

[@deborahrieks4023]

Love all the books.

[@nextwave1314]

I want these videos to be longer, please! I love, love, love them.

[@cinziadeluca5074]

I don't think I can think of another house that I have seen that looks more serene than this! I want to sit on that sun porch in summer and read!

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed a beautiful serene house!!

[@karenhogan731]

So beautiful 😊

[@CajunLady333]

Love everything. The kitchen, The Front Porch, The Master Bedroom, etc...

[@tinamccann8968]

That wonderful home is the "perfect storm" of the collaboration of exceptional minds. Quintessence's best episode!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you - Gil so very talented!!

[@mycatsweetheart]

Beautiful. and The Kitchen!!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Don't you just love the kitchen?!

[@WrightFarmhouse]

What a warm and welcoming home. I especially loved learning about the mortgage button. Thank you for taking us for a peek inside.

[@jfreeman2047]

The interior is very well decorated but the exterior facades are absolutely ugly. Can someone explain to me why rich Americans build houses completely out of natural proportion? Those columns are completely oversized, as is the pediment they are 'supporting', it makes no sense whatsoever. The central wing had the potential of symmetry but the owner just stuck a door on the left-hand side and completely ruined it. The left wing of the house is completely out of place with the rest of the property, as is the right wings attempt at an orangery. Don't even get me started on the multiple roof shapes/ styles. Alas, I digress.

[@quintessenceblg]

I'm sorry to respectfully disagree with you. I find the exterior in perfect taste and it is not at all out of proportion. Gil is one of the preeminent traditional architects practicing today and is exacting in his scale and proportion. This is a celebrated house for exactly what you object to! The house is meant to echo one that was built over time, what he calls the mythology of the house. If you were to get his book, The Great American House, you would be informed and dare I say educated in these matters.

[@jfreeman2047]

@@quintessenceblg You are welcome to disagree. To me, and most Europeans, this is just another McMansion in an attempted classical style.

[@alekxa90]

I love it. I wonder how much the maintenance cost on a property like this is. Just the landscape seems to be very expensive. I guess since it's a new house it must be efficient in heating and cooling costs and electricity.

[@quintessenceblg]

I would imagine all the systems are efficient!!

[@Eristhenes]

The epitome of the American country house. I love his book. The bedroom looks a lot like a Michael Smith creation, would never have guessed Miles Redd.

[@francescadeimel7394]

hi please name of book?

[@marlenegoho1778]

I can’t imagine having that much patience for detail...for example, Greek key bed....

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes, details make an enormous difference!

[@juanignacio1969]

Es un sueño hecho realidad.

[@audreybutts615]

Layers of Love.

[@sadieizzie]

WOW WOW WOW... what a beauty!!! detail detail detail... love it.

[@quintessenceblg]

Our sentiments exactly - thanks Sherrie!

[@milonacarmichael6534]

Amazing!

[@willmacdesign]

Oh...gawd!!....I just wanted sit everywhere! Wonderful job ladies!! You're the best! xo

[@rainbowskittles30]

PLease please please , share the colors of the inside of this house. Love the color

[@MyBeautifulBeauty]

Invite me for a meal on that dining table. 🥰

[@maxdominate2481]

@9:53 - The backyard grounds are massive!

[@opheliemarteil3903]

Un pur délice, dix minutes de bonheur... Tank you so much !

[@janeswitchenko4634]

Unbelievable! I love it! He seems so perfectly nice, too. May I ask what color that tawny-marmalade-y paint in one of the rooms is actually called? Who makes the paint? It is perfect.

[@quintessenceblg]

Gil IS nice! And I'm afraid I don't know the exact color - you could write to Gil's office and see if they can tell you. gpschafer.com/contact

[@janeswitchenko4634]

@@quintessenceblg I think I will contact his office. ALL of the wall colors grab me...Thanks for your response!

[@yvonnerahmes9618]

@@quintessenceblg Thank you for the url, I am so happy I don't have to hunt to find his books, etc. :)

[@rosalindhambleton39]

OMG ! What a gorgeous new "old" house. I am in love !! The way it is built, the different level of the floors, the light from the very long windows, the layers of books and other objects, it is gorgeous, it feels warm and comfortable. The landscape is amazing, well everything is gorgeous. Thank you so much for sharing, I really needed a Quintessence fix and I got it. Great job Suzanna and team. - Rosalind -

[@quintessenceblg]

Rosalind Hambleton Love that you appreciated all those amazing details! It is indeed a special house and property! - Stacey

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you Rosalind!!!

[@gernotgueth4397]

Susanna Salk you did really a great work. I like them soooo much

[@marquamfurniture]

Superb!! The most successful creation of an 'old house' I've ever seen! Developed with great historical awareness. (Usually there are modern give-aways, large and small, that betray the period.) Warm, comfortable, stylish, and inviting. Beautiful furnishings!

[@quintessenceblg]

Totally agree!

[@cheryl4729]

omg. I am in love...

[@quintessenceblg]

Easy to be in love with this amazing house and property!

[@tigermoon44]

It's been way too long!!! I've been waiting for new videos from you!! Yippee!!

[@jenniferstaten]

I don't have words to say how much I love this! I feel like I'm swimming in a sea of love for a new house with an old soul. Just beautiful! Greek Revival is my absolute favorite. TY

[@quintessenceblg]

Jennifer I am absolutely delighted to hear that!! Gil’s house is a favorite of mine as well!

[@justmegeorgie5930]

EXTREMELY ELEGANT! .... THIS IS A SERIOUS ARCHITECT & DESIGNER! BECAUSE IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT DESIGN. .... BUT INSPIRES YOU TO FEEL! FEEL YOUR MEMORIES, AND CREATE MORE!

[@quintessenceblg]

So true!!

[@Usernameusername206]

Amazing! Incredible home! Thank you for the tour!

[@patfondren6013]

I would LOVE to know the paint color in the family room (portrait over the mantle) . What a gorgeous, mellow color that just makes the room cheerful amid all the history and looks gorgeous with the furnishings and the flowers. Everything so well put together, layered, almost a purposeful look but serendipity, of course.

[@davidflory3597]

BEAUTIFUL INSIDE AND OUT!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Indeed!!

[@barbaranovello6184]

Gorgeous!

[@jlusk999]

When I win the Powerball I know who will be building my house! Just a stunning home. So tasteful and not overly large. I think I would have permanent goosebumps if I was lucky enough to get to live in a place like that.

[@arela1030]

Wow 😮 a romantic story ,country home is a perfect relaxing so peaceful place .i loved it ,I’m so impressed so clean and beautiful lovely garden.living in nature and surrounded by natural resources is excellent medicine to our soul and heart 💕🌸🦋🦋🦋🦋I really enjoyed watching your addicted. Channel ,Thanks a millions Quintessence 🌸🌸💕🦋🍷🍷🍷

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank YOU!! We love our enthusiastic viewers!

[@juliancoulden1753]

Sublime!

[@quintessenceblg]

Julian Coulden It is indeed! Glad you enjoyed!

[@dresqueda]

I may have written this before, but on second viewing this is still my favorite house of all time.

[@quintessenceblg]

I can understand that!

[@philcraw]

Can you please spell the name of the person Gil Schafer mentioned as a collaborator for color? It sounds like he's saying Evash Kref. He mentions this at approx. 9:05 in this episode.Thanks!

[@quintessenceblg]

Here you go - her name is Eve Ashcraft. Gil has collaborated with her on many projects over the years and she has a book called "The Right Color".

[@jsantiago6031]

Would not mind at all to be quarantined in this house. Nicely done.

[@ammihernandez71]

😁

[@reginekimmel4346]

Really enjoyed this! Love the landscaping also and his potted hydreangeas ala Mr. Gatewood's..... Please come to Georgia and visit Mr. Gatewood's compound and share with us!

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed!! We so wanted to film Furlow but he felt he was too old and frail for a video.

[@reginekimmel4346]

Thank you so much for the reply. I met him in Thomasville 2015 at his book signing and he was a joy. Mr. Gatewood's estate really should be captured on video for posterity and for us design peasants to view!

[@quintessenceblg]

Believe me, we would LOVE to do!!

[@TVMaster89]

Omg I kept reading about his work and it’s nice to see his home on video.

[@ЛеонидПлятт-м7г]

Joshua P what is his work?

[@lilithgrrrl]

Love this house! Would love to build a new "old" house and love all the special little details he put in. Wish we could have a full documentary where he and his designed just describe every room in detail!

[@quintessenceblg]

It’s a very special house! Gil is so talented! To see more of his work, he has two books, both worth owning!

[@katecrowley1858]

More more more. This is my kind of house. Love it. Thank you. Kind regards. Kate

[@quintessenceblg]

Oh mine too!! Thanks Kate!

[@Lisa-sp5if]

I’m watching this again six years later and it still feels just as timeless and just as updated as it ever was. Gill is a master. One of the top masters in the world, I believe. And what I think I love about him the most besides his giftedness is his humility… He seems like a real and humble man. Oh my word…❤🎉

[@fancycat]

Simply stunning!

[@quintessenceblg]

cynthia Smith 👍🏻

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

Fabulous house! Thank you for the video!