In 2019, celebrated fashion designer Marc Jacobs and his husband Charly Defrancesco ventured outside the bustle of New York City to purchase their first home together—a $9.2 million Frank Lloyd Wright-designed property in Rye, New York.
Known as the Max Hoffman House, this 5,791-square-foot home rests on two acres of waterfront land overlooking the Long Island Sound.
Built in 1955 for Austrian-born automobile importer Max Hoffman, the property features Wright’s signature Usonian design principles, which emphasize harmony between architecture and the surrounding environment.
Jacobs, captivated by the serene Japanese garden, soaring ceilings, and walls of glass that bathe the interiors in natural light, recalls being overwhelmed by the tranquility and timeless beauty of the home upon his first visit.
It was, in his words, “one of the coolest houses I had ever seen.”
A Labor of Love: Restoring a Wright Icon
The Max Hoffman House came with a catch—it had not been updated since a major renovation in 1995 and was plagued by decades of decay.
Jacobs and Defrancesco undertook a down-to-the-studs restoration, stripping the house back to its original framework to repair sagging eaves, leaky roofs, and splintered mahogany.
Partnering with the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy, they meticulously ensured that every modification honored Wright’s original vision while integrating modern conveniences.
Renovation challenges included replacing the slate roof, restoring woodwork, and addressing unforeseen mechanical issues uncovered during the process.
Jacobs described the project as a test of his “resources, determination, and time,” with surprises at every turn.
A crew of experts, including woodworkers and slate-roof specialists, worked tirelessly to bring the home back to life.
Reimagining the Interior: A Marriage of History and Modernity
Inside, the home has been transformed into a modern sanctuary while retaining its historical integrity.
The basement, originally requested by Hoffman, is now a luxurious multifunctional space that includes an infrared spa, nail salon, gift-wrapping station, pharmacy, and laundry facilities.
Unique additions like a hair salon with a barber chair and wooden closets cater to the couple’s needs while reflecting their personal style.
The main living spaces have also been reimagined.
Nestled within the home, a window-lined great room showcases breathtaking views of the Sound, while a dollhouse-like library displays Jacobs’ collection of first-edition books.
A “fishbowl” office connects to the primary suite, blending work and relaxation in an innovative layout.
A Personal Connection
Before renovations began, Jacobs and Defrancesco tied the knot inside the home, exchanging vows in front of its monumental fireplace.
This intimate ceremony, attended by 40 close friends, solidified the emotional significance of the property.
Over the years, the couple has shared glimpses of their journey on social media, giving followers a peek into the painstaking restoration process and the home’s unique features, including its copper trim and serene gardens.
A New Chapter: Suburban Bliss
For Jacobs, the Max Hoffman House represents a departure from his fast-paced New York City lifestyle.
While still considering himself a city dweller at heart, he has found himself captivated by the tranquility and beauty of the suburbs.
“Though my spirit will always belong to New York City, my heart has found its home in the quiet joy of the suburbs,” Jacobs reflects.
The couple’s journey with the Max Hoffman House serves as a testament to their dedication to preserving architectural history while creating a space uniquely their own.
Today, the home stands as a blend of Wright’s visionary design and Jacobs’ innovative flair, a true masterpiece reborn.
