We had the chance to experience this year’s Mansion in May up close—and trust us, Wildfair was worth the hype.
The gates to this historic Chester Township estate opened to the public on May 1, kicking off one of New Jersey’s most anticipated design events. By the time the last guest walked through at the end of the month, more than 22,000 visitors had explored the jaw-dropping interiors and gardens reimagined by some of the region’s most talented designers.
This year’s Mansion in May showhouse was held at Wildfair, a picturesque property originally transformed into a country estate in 1934 by Elizabeth and Harry Bowly Hollins III. Set on the grounds of a 220-year-old former mill and farm, the home features fieldstone walls, wide bay windows, French doors, and peaceful pond views. Designed by the renowned architectural firm Willing, Sims & Talbutt, the estate exemplifies timeless Colonial Revival elegance.
Each room in the mansion was dramatically reinterpreted by professional interior designers, with no two spaces alike. From bold wallpaper to custom furnishings and curated artwork, the 2025 edition of Mansion in May pushed creative boundaries while respecting the home’s classic bones.
One standout space was a whimsical, color-filled bedroom by Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors.
“We designed an enchanting space filled with color, pattern, and room for self-expression to bring a young girl’s dream room to life,” said Cohen. “A custom corner banquette provides the perfect spot to read or chat with friends, while decorative shelving above displays artwork and travel mementos. A lilac linen canopy drapes over the striped, pink velvet bed, creating a luxurious escape. Every design detail, from the hidden closet vanity to the dimensional art installation leading to the ensuite, adds a touch of playfulness and delight to the room.”
The outdoor spaces were equally stunning. Landscape designers reimagined Wildfair’s gardens, walkways, and terraces, offering visitors ideas for everything from container plantings to sprawling estate grounds. Every turn offered inspiration.
A standout addition this year was Fashion at the Mansion, a lively new feature celebrating style in all its forms. From volunteer uniforms with flair to visitors arriving in garden-party chic, fashion became an integral part of the experience. Even the shuttle buses took part in the fun, proving that no detail was overlooked.
Mansion in May is more than just a celebration of great design—it’s a philanthropic powerhouse. Hosted by the Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center (WAMMC), the event serves as the organization’s flagship fundraiser. Proceeds from this year’s event support the development of the Proton Therapy Center at Morristown Medical Center, which will bring cutting-edge cancer treatment to patients across the region.
The month-long event is powered by nearly 1,000 volunteers and supported by over 150 interior and landscape designers, craftspeople, and corporate sponsors. Their donated time and talent make this immersive experience possible—and ensure that every dollar raised goes further.
Tickets for general admission were available throughout May, with proceeds going directly to WAMMC’s fundraising goals. Visitors could also enhance their visit by shopping in the on-site boutiques, enjoying refreshments in the café, and purchasing raffle tickets for a range of luxury prizes.
Whether you came for the interiors, the gardens, the fashion, or simply to support a good cause, Wildfair delivered on every front. It was a place where creativity met community, where luxury met legacy—and where every step through the halls helped build a better future for patients and families in New Jersey.
For more details on the event and to learn how you can support the cause, visit mansioninmay.org.
All proceeds from Mansion in May 2025 will support the new Proton Therapy Center at Morristown Medical Center.
To learn more, visit mansioninmay.org.