‘Live like a rock star’ in KISS guitarist Ace Frehley’s former home, now an Airbnb
A cool vacation rental with ties to an iconic rock band of the 1970s has popped up in a gorgeous part of the Constitution State.
Surrounded by lush greenery sits the former estate of guitarist Ace Frehley — one of the founders and original lead guitarist of KISS. The house is now a chic Airbnb hidden by a long, gated driveway win Wilton, Connecticut.
“Situated across from a 70 acre private farm with accessible hiking trails, makes this a perfect escape,” the listing on Airbnb says. “ Akin to something out of a magazine, this breathtaking home offers wide open spaces, lots of glass and light. Come record in the restored studio, if you’d like.”
The five-bedroom, seven-bathroom house is elegantly decorated inside with a whimsical, artsy touch that flows with sophistication. Artwork featuring pop art of Marilyn Monroe and Jim Morrison line the walls as well.
The studio was highlighted in an interview with John Storyk, the architect who designed the recording studio in Frehley’s house, posted by KISS Concert History Online.
“Ace had, more or less, just gotten his new home in Connecticut, right on the Connecticut-New York border, and wanted his own studio,” Storyk said in the interview.
“There was nothing non-commercial about it other than the fact that it was not going to be a commercial studio. And also, it [wasn’t] a giant studio -- [Ace] didn’t need a giant studio. He needed room for three, four musicians.”
The Airbnb offers:
Kitchen
WIFI
Workspace
Free parking
Private hot tub
Washer and dryer
And so much more.
The rental currently has a five-star rating on Airbnb with favorable reviews by former guests.
“Staying here was like getting to stay in a rock history museum. Amazingly fun to explore every room and see how it was decorated . It was absolutely phenomenal,” one person said.
“The house is immaculate and they’ve taken great care of it,” another commented. “If you’re a fan of rock n roll memorabilia then you’ll enjoy the decor too. Highly recommend this house!”
“This is such a fun home -- it definitely lives up to the Rock ’n’ Roll billing, and has plenty of space. Such a fun experience, and will definitely be returning again soon!” someone wrote.
Frehley played with KISS — with their painted faces, leathery costumes and theatrical concerts — from their beginning in 1973 until he left in 1982 to begin a solo career.
Wilton is about 55 miles northeast of New York City.
This story was originally published January 21, 2023 at 10:00 AM.