Top designer Tommy Hilfiger aims to convert a mansion in his hometown into a museum housing memorabilia from his 30 years in the fashion industry. He is reportedly paying $400,000 for the 1929 French manor located in Elmira, New York, but he plans to invest upwards of $2 million to develop the project.
The deal has not yet been closed, but there is already much speculation as to what exactly the museum will contain. The 50-year-old fashion mogul has said that the house will be decorated with items that date back as far as his first Elmira boutique, People’s Place, which he opened in 1971. It is said that Tommy may display part of his extensive collection of art, including works by Andy Warhol, and guitars signed by Mick Jagger and Eric Clapton.
According to Hilfiger spokesman Guy Vickers, the museum is intended to be a gift to the community, and Tommy hopes that the estate will inspire young people. "He wants kids to be motivated," Vickers said. "He wants a place where people in the community can hold forums and workshops. Tommy wants it to be something the community can be proud of.”
The mansion, which reportedly has 21 rooms, seven guest rooms and 11 bathrooms, sits on 18 acres along with a caretaker’s house, carriage house and stables. The space will serve Hilfiger well, as he plans to stay at the estate when he comes to town.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
