Tucked away in the idyllic New Albany countryside lies a sprawling estate that epitomizes luxury living. With its grand architecture, opulent interiors, and resort-style amenities, this palace provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of retail mogul Les Wexner.
The Les Wexner House Showcases the Business Tycoon’s Discerning Taste and Pursuit of Perfection
Introduction
Behind the stately brick walls and meticulously manicured lawns of Les Wexner’s New Albany estate lies a sanctuary of luxury beyond compare. As the founder and CEO of retail empire L Brands, Wexner has cultivated an affinity for the finer things in life. This penchant for perfection and beauty shines through in his magnificent 55,000 square foot residence, reflecting his worldly sophistication and celebrated status in the design community.
The Visionary Behind the Estate
To appreciate the splendor of Wexner’s abode, one must first understand the trailblazing businessman behind it. Born in Ohio in 1937, Les Wexner capitalized on the thriving postwar consumer culture to build one of America’s most successful retail companies. Launching with a single women’s clothing store in 1963, Wexner steadily acquired brands and expanded nationwide, eventually taking Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Express under L Brands’ umbrella of influence. Today, the multi-billion dollar corporation operates over 3,000 stores across the globe.
Beyond his retail achievements, Wexner is a prominent philanthropist, actively supporting healthcare, education, and leadership initiatives. From founding medical facilities to funding mentoring programs, his generosity reflects a deep-rooted sense of social responsibility. This spirit of progress and purpose also manifests in Wexner’s eye for design and relentless pursuit of excellence.
An Estate Worthy of Acclaim
Nestled on 336 acres of picturesque countryside, Wexner’s New Albany abode provides a fitting testament to his legacy of success. Built in 1997, the property incorporates an array of architectural influences, from classic Georgian features to contemporary geometries. Designed by renowned architect Peter Eisenman, the Les Wexner House exudes appreciation for innovation and timeless beauty.
Beyond its visual brilliance, the estate boasts state-of-the-art systems and an extensive art collection curated by Wexner’s wife, Abigail. With priceless paintings and sculptures adorning its grand interiors, the Les Wexner House offers a cultivated setting where art, technology and design intersect in perfect harmony.
As a sanctuary, an architectural feat and a hallmark of prestige, Wexner’s residence encapsulates his discernment and dynamism as one of America’s most enterprising business minds.
The Architectural Grandeur
A Timeless Masterpiece of Design
Rising from the lush countryside, the stately facade of Les Wexner House announces the home as a contemporary architectural treasure. Designed by acclaimed architect Peter Eisenman, the exterior masterfully blends classic and modern aesthetics into a striking composition.
A Nuanced Fusion of Old and New
The front elevation reveals strong Georgian influences, with symmetrical windows flanking a grand portico supported by towering columns. This classical style provides a timeless elegance befitting of Wexner’s appreciation for heritage and tradition. However, the Les Wexner House clean lines, absence of ornamentation and largely white palette signal a subtle modernity in form.
By fusing traditional shapes with contemporary geometries, Eisenman has created a nuanced interplay between past and present. The resulting facade is simultaneously timeless yet distinctly modern – much like Wexner’s pioneering success bridging between the old economy and today’s digital retail sphere.
Tactile Contrasts in Materiality
Beyond its conceptual brilliance, Les Wexner House exterior also impresses through exceptional craftsmanship and quality finishes. The predominantly white facade comprises both smooth stucco and textured stone surfaces, introducing visual depth and tactile contrast.
Sections of the Les Wexner House also incorporate slate roof tiling and exposed brickwork, providing a richness in texture befitting of a luxury estate. The varied materials and careful detailing reflect Eisenman’s meticulous approach – one shared by both architect and client in their continual quest for excellence.
A Distinctive Contemporary Aesthetic
The estate’s contemporary edge manifests most prominently through its expansive windows. Floor-to-ceiling glazing opens the Les Wexner House to natural light, fostering a bright and spacious ambiance in the grand interiors. The generous windows also provide a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, connecting residents to the lush gardens and rolling countryside beyond.
In addition, the Les Wexner House cleans lines, absence of exterior ornamentation and largely white palette reinforce its modernist architectural vision. This crisp, contemporary aesthetic aligns with the sleek elegance of Wexner’s retail flagships – particularly the minimalist luxury of Victoria’s Secret stores. Just as these boutiques signal the brand’s continual evolution, Wexner’s estate encapsulates his future-focused outlook grounded by timeless quality and beauty.
An Interior Canvas Primed for Artistry
Beyond its striking exterior, the home’s expansive interior spaces provide Eisenman an open canvas for imbuing architectural artistry. The floorplan emphasizes openness and fluidity between rooms, with sightlines opening to spectacular effect.
Spaces Defined by Light
From the grand two-story foyer to the private living quarters, spaces are inundated with natural light. Vast windows, glass walls and skylights fill the home with brilliance, complementing the predominantly white decor. This abundant luminosity amplifies the interior volume, fostering an inviting yet dramatic grandeur true to Wexner’s bold design vision.
Tactile Luxury Underfoot
While light shapes the visual experience overhead, the Les Wexner House fines finishes impart refined luxury underfoot. White oak floors with a subtle whitewash finish flow throughout, lending warmth and a tactile richness heightened by plush rugs. In keeping with Wexner’s penchant for European craftsmanship, the herringbone and chevron parquetry patterns nod to old-world styles even as their bright palette aligns with modernist minimalism.
Rooms Designed for Living
Rather than rigidly defined spaces, the floorplan comprises fluid gathering areas that promote relaxed socialization. The open-concept layout and spacious proportions foster an ease of movement between rooms and flexibility in usage and furnishings. Whether hosting elite gatherings or enjoying quiet nights in, the elegantly versatile layout caters seamlessly to the homeowners’ active lifestyle.
Exquisite Interiors
A Symphony of Elegance and Comfort
Within the estate’s contemporary framework, the interiors by designer John Stefanidis strike a harmonious balance between European opulence and inviting warmth. Furnishings and accents encompass a rich array of materials, textures and historical influences – all united by a soothing neutral color palette.
Layered Sophistication
Beyond the clean-lined architecture, the living spaces reveal a layered sophistication steeped in old-world traditions. Fine antiques, quality craftsmanship and custom details imbue the Les Wexner House with subtle grandeur. The integrated audiovisual systems, integrated lighting controls and advanced climate management, however, signal modern technological conveniences.
This fusion of classic luxury and contemporary functionality reflects Wexner’s penchant for timeless quality and cutting-edge innovation. Just as L Brands continually elevates shopping experiences through digital integration, Les Wexner House merges aged elegance with systems-driven convenience.
A Neutral Foundation
While the Les Wexner House exhibits an array of materials and historical references, a neutral color palette underpins the interior design. Creamy whites provide a foundational backdrop, balanced by warm wood tones, gentle metallics and a sparing use of black for accent.
This harmonious base allows the eclectic furnishings, artworks and accents to shine. The subdued tones also establish a soothing oasis of refined relaxation – a retreat from Wexner’s fast-paced business endeavors.
Tailored Elegance
From the dining room wainscoting to the bedroom upholstery, fine fabrics lend an air of tailored luxury. Lush velvets, smooth silks and natural linens feature prominently throughout. These textiles provide a sensuality to the interior experience, complementing the visual brilliance.
Much like the lingerie lining Wexner’s retail stores, the upscale furnishings cloak spaces in a subtle yet undeniable elegance. Stefanidis’ designs uphold the comfort and quality synonymous with Victoria’s Secret while translating the brand’s elite sensibilities into a residential context.
State-of-the-Art Amenities
Technology and Luxury Intertwined
As a pioneer in omnichannel retail, Wexner recognizes the growing role of technology in driving exceptional experiences. This forward-focus manifests in the estate’s state-of-the-art amenities, from the automated infrastructure to the integrated leisure features.
Smart Infrastructure
The homes extensive systems provide complete Les Wexner House automation, optimizing convenience and efficiency. Lighting, temperature, audiovisual and security functions can be controlled remotely via panels and mobile apps. With settings tailored scene by scene, the infrastructure ensures ideal conditions for entertaining, relaxation or productivity.
Much like L Brands retail technology heightens shopping experiences, the estate’s smart infrastructure enables personalized comfort. Automated Roman shades and skylight solar tracking allow plentiful natural light without compromising climate control or privacy.
Lavish Leisure Spaces
In addition to the infrastructure, technologies also underpin many of the home’s leisure amenities. The subterranean recreational complex houses a state-of-the-art gym with interactive equipment and streaming virtual classes. The tiered Les Wexner House theater provides an immersive cinema experience through laser projection, 3D sound and integrated lighting.
These lavish amenities leverage innovations in much the same way Victoria’s Secret revolutionized lingerie shopping through videos, social media and fashion shows. By weaving technology throughout the estate, Wexner creates spaces as evocative and impactful as the retail flagships bearing his name.
Outdoor Oasis
Tranquility and Beauty in Harmony
Spanning the grounds of Wexner’s palatial estate is a resplendent landscape brimming with botanical variety. Designed by renowned landscaper Charles J. Stick, the gardens provide an idyllic natural setting that complements the home’s contemporary architecture.
A World of Greenery
The vibrant gardens incorporate over 5000 trees, shrubs and flowering plants for year-round appeal. From magnificent magnolias to towering evergreens, this breadth of botanicals creates a rich biosphere where wildlife thrives alongside human inhabitants. The grounds team oversees continual planting and maintenance to uphold the ecosystem’s health and beauty.
Much like L Brands strives for sustainable operations across its supply chain, Wexner’s estate supports environmental wellness through conscientious landscape management. These lush gardens nod to his Ohio upbringing and lifelong appreciation of nature.
Alfresco Gathering Places
Beyond the botanical beauty, the grounds also include an array of seating areas and architectural follies designed for outdoor entertaining. An elegant loggia offers expansive views of the countryside, while the poolside cabana and patio provide more intimate spots to relax amidst the splendor.
Much like L Brands boutiques balance grandiose displays with cozy fitting rooms, the estate’s gardens marry vast scale with human-centric details. From the stone benches along winding trails to the pergola-shaded terrace, Les Wexner House beckons residents and guests to immerse in the pastoral beauty.
Art and Decor
A Curated Collection of Masterpieces
Beyond its structural brilliance, the estate also impresses as a showplace for one of America’s finest private art collections, personally curated by Abigail Wexner. With over 3000 works displayed throughout the home, the collection spans eras and genres – from Renaissance portraits to abstract sculptures. This diversity of pieces establishes the residence as a contemporary art museum unto itself.
Refined Tastes
The concept of “refined tastes” in interior design refers to spaces that exhibit sophistication, subtle grandeur, and elevated aesthetics. This is often achieved through:
- A curated mix of high-quality materials and finishes: Using fine woods, natural stone, plush fabrics and custom details that impart luxury. An eclectic yet cohesive blending of iconic vintage and modern pieces also contributes to refinement.
- Strategic use of lighting: Incorporating abundant natural light along with softer ambient and accent lighting. Lighting helps set a warm, elegant mood while showcasing architectural details.
- Considered accessorizing and storage: Displaying treasured items and artworks judiciously, without appearing cluttered. Concealing everyday clutter maintains visual serenity.
- Tranquil, harmonious color palettes: Neutral, muted color schemes establish a peaceful backdrop that allows bolder accents and artwork to shine. Soft metallics and black used sparingly also introduce understated drama.
- Human-centric customization: Despite grandiose aesthetics, refined spaces still feel welcoming and conducive to living. This manifests through versatility, comfort and intuitive functionality aligned with residents’ lifestyles.
In summary, refined interior design balances awe-inspiring beauty with approachable details tailored to the individual. Much like haute couture translates aspirational style into wearable fashion, refined tastes in decor bridge the conceptual with the personal for spaces that feel simultaneously spectacular yet innately livable.
Conclusion
As a visionary leader in retail and design, Les Wexner has cultivated an unparalleled lifestyle brimming with creativity, innovation and artistry. His New Albany estate stands as the crystallization of these passions – at once a personal sanctuary, an architectural phenomenon and a celebratory showcase of grace and beauty across spheres.
Beyond material extravagance, the home embodies the richness of experience possible when intellect and imagination intersect. Like Wexner’s retail empire, the residence synthesizes the heritage of tradition with the excitement of progress. Time-honored craftmanship fuses seamlessly with technological convenience; classic beauty complements contemporary aesthetics. In every space the dialogue between past and future plays out, anchored in excellence across eras.
Just as L Brands has evolved from humble beginnings into a global titan, Wexner’s abode has emerged as a world-class work of art melding architecture, nature and design into an unparalleled lifestyle universe. Yet for all its grandeur, the home remains intimately connected to its creator’s Ohio roots through ties to the local community and appreciation for Midwest landscapes.
Ultimately the estate offers a window into Les Wexner – the man, the visionary, the philanthropist – through the framework of his design sensibilities. Its rooms catalog his interests from art and entertainment to health and hospitality, translated into a built environment. As a tangible representation of his inner world, the home provides rare insight into the retail genius who forever transformed the industry.
In showcasing the extensive breadth of Wexner’s passions, the New Albany grounds stand poised to host the next chapter in his already legendary career. Whatever comes next for Les Wexner – even bolder retail concepts, groundbreaking civic projects, or new design collaborations – his estate will continue as the site where imagination becomes reality and inspiration takes form. Its rooms will resonate with his trademark dynamism, taste and pride in community for decades to come.
