The Whitefield house in its original state.

Previously named “The Orchard”, the mansion was originally renovated for financier and photographer James L. Breese in 1895 from a 1850s Greek Revival house once owned by a sea captain during the heyday of Southampton’s whaling industry. The esteemed architectural firm of McKim, Mead & White designed the interiors, including the infamous music room. The Orchard is generally considered to be one of the finest summer homes Stanford White ever designed.

Whitefield House

RESTORATION

It was a great thrill to step back in time to view Stanford White's work and to be able to restore it to its original state. Dennis worked on many of the rooms in the mansion and focused on restoring the custom ceiling detail and moldings. 

Fortunately, Dennis was able to take a piece of the Whitefield house home with him. He fully restored this mantelpiece and it now lives as a focal point and conversation piece in his own living room.