In July, 2008, Thomas L. Rich, a lifelong resident of Shippan Point and local real estate developer, acquired the Chesterfield. Mr. Rich completed a stunning transformation of the hotel, selecting an eclectic mix of contemporary and period pieces, accented by a collection of original art.  Rich said, “Our goal at the Chesterfield was to create simply the most luxurious hotel experience in the City.  From the ambiance to the furnishings to the service, whether one is here for business, an event, or pleasure, we will make each stay at the Chesterfield special and unique.”

Part of the specialness of the Chesterfield is its heritage as an elegant resort. Benjamin Scofield built the mansion in the early 1860s. Named "Aqua Vista" during the nineteenth century, the hotel offers views into Westcott Cove on Long Island Sound, where, during the Revolutionary War, U. S. General Benjamin Tallmadge led an important raid off Shippan Point against the British. Later known as The Chesterfield, it was one of several beach resorts in Shippan in the early 1900s. Through the 20th century, the hotel continued to offer guests a refreshing seaside escape. By the year 2000, however, time had taken its toll, and a major restoration was needed to return the once stately building to its former glory.

Today, this boutique hotel looks glorious indeed. Every piece of woodwork gleams, from the classic Victorian wainscoting, to the turned balusters, and rich cherry and mahogany floors throughout. No fewer than seven antique crystal chandeliers sparkle in the common areas; a few of the bedrooms feature chandeliers as well. Original stained glass windows grace several rooms; as do fireplaces, bay windows, and unique antiques. The rebirth of the hotel is also remarkable in its seamless integration of luxurious 21st century touches. The number of rooms was reduced from 15 to 9 for truly spacious accommodations. Wireless internet, tastefully placed flat screen plasma tv’s, and broad nickel showerheads in the baths are among the enhancements guests can enjoy.

The Chesterfield is the second hotel in Mr. Rich’s collection; he also owns the award-winning 115-room Courtyard by Marriott, located in downtown Stamford. A third hotel, the 198-room Ritz Carlton Stamford Hotel and Residences, is under development.  Mr. Rich is President and CEO of the F. D. Rich Company, and serves on the boards of local non-profits such as the Stamford Center for the Arts, Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care of SW CT and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Stamford.  The Company, founded in Stamford in 1920 by Rich’s grandfather, F. D. Rich, Sr., has built more than 50 million square feet of varying project types across the United States and Caribbean. Widely known for its role as the sole redeveloper of the downtown Stamford Urban Renewal Project, the Company has developed more than 100 buildings in the City of Stamford alone. These include some of Stamford’s older structures such as the Sacred Heart Church and the Avon Theatre to more current projects such as the Landmark Square Complex, The Stamford Plaza Office Complex, and the Stamford Town Center Mall.  Today the Company is active in Fairfield County, where it has many projects in various stages of development.  

For more information please visit www.fdrich.com.