Creative force Michelle Benzer talks balancing family life and a transition to London.

Relocating across the Atlantic can be an adventure fraught with unknowns, especially for a young family carving out a new chapter in London. For New York native Michelle Benzer and her partner, finding more than just a temporary refuge was paramount. With a young toddler in tow and a Chelsea renovation underway, they sought a space that would meet both their practical needs and personal aspirations.

An art director with a discerning eye, Michelle’s background shaped the family’s search for a home with style and substance. “We came across Domus Stay through a friend’s recommendation,” she recalls. “But it was speaking to the team that sold it. Short-stay homes can feel impersonal, but everything about the experience was tailored from the start.”

Their perfect match arrived in the form of Chelsea Park Gardens: an Arts and Crafts-style residence in storied surroundings. With a cottage-like charm, light-filled living spaces and a soothing principal suite, the design fit the bill with unexpected precision. “It works so well for family life, every room is versatile,” Michelle shares. “We can host friends for dinner one night and enjoy a quiet family night the next.”

The property’s lush communal garden was another part of the appeal, and quickly became an extension of the home, allowing their toddler free reign to run wild. “It’s so grounding having this pocket of peace right here in the city,” she enthuses. “We’re so fortunate to have had an opportunity to meet the neighbours and establish a sense of community.” Village green like, the garden also became an unexpected highlight of Michelle’s work calls. “I set up my desk to face the garden, and so many people would comment on how beautiful it looked. They couldn’t believe I was in London!”

Beyond the home’s thoughtful design, the personal touches of the Guest Services team served as a highlight for the family. From fresh flowers on arrival to Thanksgiving dinners and Christmas décor, this personal approach was the finishing touch the family needed. “It can be overwhelming having a new city to navigate, but the team made everything effortless. For our son’s birthday, they went above and beyond arranging an entire day out.”

As for the neighbourhood itself, having their future home nearby was just part of the attraction. “It’s been amazing being based here as we’ve gotten to know the area before we’ve even moved into our permanent home,” raves Michelle. With the Natural History and Science Museums just a short walk away, family weekends have become an adventure. Nearby cafes and boutiques, meanwhile, provide spaces for occasional indulgence. “It’s the perfect balance,” Michelle reflects. “Our son’s nursery school is close, the museums are on our doorstep, and there’s a real sense of community. Everything feels so accessible.”

Chelsea Park Garden’s character has also left a creative imprint. “I’ve been struck by the way homes here balance tradition and modernity,” she observes. Working with designer Lonika Chande on their own renovation, Michelle has been inspired to get involved in the process – from sourcing specific pieces to early morning market visits at 5am. “Often design in the US is more minimal and neutral. I’ve loved leaning into the rich traditional English aesthetic.”

As the family’s time at Chelsea Park Gardens draws to a close, Michelle reflects on the house’s impact. “It’s been so much more than a stop-gap for us. It’s been a home away from home,” she says. “This chapter has given us stability and a deeper connection to the neighbourhood. We can’t thank the Domus Stay team enough.”

Chelsea Park Gardens is available for vacation rental from £4,000 per night.