Introduction
John Travolta and Kelly Preston’s vacation home in Maine serves as a perfect getaway for family gatherings. Nestled on an island off the coast, this grand property offers an ideal retreat where the couple can unwind and entertain their extended family. In this article, we explore the transformation of this beautiful estate, from its historic roots to its thoughtful redesign, making it a true family haven.
The Origins of John Travolta’s Maine Vacation Home
Travolta and Preston’s home is located on an island off the coast of Maine. Built in 1903 by architects Peabody and Stearns, the house is a stunning example of Shingle Style architecture. With Tudor Revival features, the 22-bedroom home was originally constructed for a prominent banking family. Its design blends rustic charm with a timeless elegance, making it a unique and remarkable structure.
Discovering the House
The Travoltas discovered the house when they visited actress Kirstie Alley’s nearby estate. Travolta instantly fell in love with the property, describing it as a “fairy-tale house.” Kelly Preston shared the same sentiment when she saw it. Driving up the driveway, they were captivated by the natural tunnel of trees that lined the path, giving it an enchanting, almost magical feel.
Transforming the Property
Upon purchasing the home in 1991, the Travoltas set out to transform the space into a comfortable yet elegant retreat. While the house was large and full of potential, it required significant renovations to meet the couple’s needs. The first step was installing a large furnace system to accommodate the home’s size and redoing the kitchen. The attic was also gutted and transformed into a whimsical play area for children, complete with themed rooms like the Princess Room and the Airplane Room.
Renovating with Family in Mind
The couple’s primary goal for the renovation was to create a space where they could host their extended families during the holidays. Travolta and Preston envisioned a home that would be large enough to accommodate both of their families and provide ample space for everyone to gather. To achieve this, they redesigned rooms to be both comfortable and inviting. The renovation was carried out in a relatively short time, with Travolta and Preston themselves making key decisions.
A Blend of Elegance and Comfort
While the house had a solid foundation of English antiques, the Travoltas needed to furnish the space to reflect their own style. They hunted for furniture in New York and Boston, undertaking a “sixty-day marathon” of selecting and purchasing pieces that suited their vision for the home.
Creating the Perfect Ambiance
The couple wanted their home to feel inviting and relaxed, despite its grandeur. Travolta, who had always been inspired by first-class hotels, wanted the house to offer the same level of comfort and luxury. They worked with designer Christopher B. Boshears to ensure the house didn’t feel too cold or impersonal. Instead, the design focused on creating a space where the family could feel at ease, whether alone or with fifty people.
John and Kelly’s Vision for the House
John and Kelly shared a dream of creating a space large enough for their families to gather for the holidays. They wanted a home where family members could come together and enjoy each other’s company. The Travoltas were deeply involved in every aspect of the design process, from choosing fabrics to selecting furniture.
The Role of Decoration in Their Life
The Travoltas were no strangers to decoration, with both having a keen interest in creating the perfect atmosphere. Kelly, in particular, had a passion for holiday decorating. She dedicated weeks to putting up Christmas decorations and ensuring every room was filled with festive cheer. Her love for design also extended to the house’s overall aesthetic, where she collaborated closely with John to create a home that felt both luxurious and welcoming.
Conclusion
John Travolta and Kelly Preston’s Maine vacation home stands as a testament to their shared vision and dedication to creating the perfect family retreat. Through their hard work and thoughtful design, they transformed a historic property into a stunning, comfortable space that welcomes their extended family year-round. The home blends elegance, comfort, and warmth—making it the perfect getaway for the Travoltas and their loved ones.
FAQs
Where is John Travolta’s vacation home located?
John Travolta and Kelly Preston’s vacation home is located on an island off the coast of Maine.
How many bedrooms does the house have?
The property features 22 bedrooms, making it large enough to accommodate their extended family during gatherings.
What architectural style is the house?
The house is built in the Shingle Style, with Tudor Revival elements in its design.
What major renovations did the Travoltas make to the house?
The Travoltas installed a new furnace system, revamped the kitchen, and transformed the attic into a children’s play area. They also refurbished many of the existing English antiques and added new furniture.
What makes this home special for the Travolta family?
This home holds sentimental value as it was designed specifically for family gatherings, with a focus on comfort, warmth, and creating lasting memories during the holidays.
