The West Village Home of Olivia Scanlon and James Davies is a study in balance. Designer Benjamin Vandiver transformed the Manhattan townhouse into a space that feels modern yet deeply rooted in tradition, blending English influences with timeless New York charm.
A Designer with Range
Vandiver is known for his versatility, moving easily between sleek bachelor pads and romantic interiors filled with florals. His intuitive approach allows him to connect with clients on a personal level. “So much of what I do is instinct,” he explained. “I understood Olivia immediately, and my instincts were right.”
That understanding created trust. “Benjamin’s brilliance comes from the fact that he is a soul-seeker,” Scanlon said. “The tenderness and care in the house reflect his ability to truly understand people.”
A Thoughtful Renovation
The townhouse underwent a complete renovation, guided by Vandiver’s sensitivity to both the building’s history and the family’s personality. Neutral walls painted in Joa’s White by Farrow & Ball provide a calming backdrop, while jute rugs from Sacco ground the interiors. Bright touches of saffron, rust, and emerald green add richness through furniture, fabrics, and marble kitchen countertops.
English character appears throughout, from reclaimed oak floors to skirted sofas by Nickey Kehoe in the living room. Classic curtains, preserved fireplace mantels, and original stairwell panels further honor the home’s heritage.
Rooms with Soul
One standout space is the garden-level music room, designed around custom OMA speakers for Davies, an audiophile. Lime-washed walls and vintage pieces by Joe Colombo and Afra and Tobia Scarpa give the room depth and poetry. Upstairs, a family room provides a cozy retreat, furnished with floral prints by Michael S. Smith for Jasper.
The blend of detail, restraint, and intuition defines the West Village Home. Vandiver’s design captured both freshness and tradition, creating a house that reflects the lives within it. The most powerful moment came when Davies, after the first night in their new home, said with tears in his eyes, “I didn’t know that I could feel like this at home.”
