Ben Stokes is perhaps recognized for hitting centuries and delivering game-changing spells, however at residence, he’s simply Ben. A dad, a canine proprietor, and somebody who’s nonetheless determining the place the TV distant went (trace: it’s on his telephone now).
His home isn’t some ultra-minimalist mansion. It’s lived-in, and filled with tales; from a comfortable the place he kicks again to stream after coaching, to a memorabilia room full of cricket historical past. There are puppies operating round, toys scattered within the hallway, and a kitchen he and his spouse, Clare, fully tore aside and redesigned to make it really feel like theirs.
“We moved in again in 2017,” he says, “and whereas it was already a terrific place, we actually wished to place our personal stamp on it.” They’ve since constructed a full residence media system, to a cinema room and even a dance studio for his or her daughter.
Story continues under this advert
Stokes is fast to level out the toys on the ground (“we’ve received two children so there’s mess in every single place—I’m not going to scrub it up for you guys”), and proudly reveals off a smooth new staircase they put in final summer time. There’s additionally a chunk of recent artwork within the hallway—he admits they do not know what it means, however says it “goes fairly nicely with the home.”
The cosy is the place the household actually unwinds. If Ben’s spouse, Clare, isn’t in there, he’s normally watching a stream. The couches are the sort you possibly can simply sink into, particularly after an extended night time or a tricky match. Enjoyable reality: the room was once rabbit-proofed, however after their pet rabbits sadly handed away, the canine took over.
Ben and Clare fully redid the kitchen after shifting in. “It was all of the incorrect means round,” he says. Now the area flows higher, with extra storage and a central island that truly is smart. The home additionally has a full media system—no distant controls anyplace. The whole lot runs by their telephones.
The couple now has a home filled with canine, led by Shelby, their first pup, who just lately had six ridiculously cute puppies. One in all them, nicknamed Samson Jr., is already displaying off some severe persona. “We’ve received six, and we will solely preserve one. I don’t understand how I’m going to decide on… Clare’s going to have to do this.”
Story continues under this advert
The eating room is likely one of the calmest corners of the home. It’s the place they host Christmas dinners or hang around with associates and neighbours. No TV right here, on function. Ben explains it’s the place they go to change off from the world.
Outdoors, there’s a phenomenal backyard with a placing inexperienced (although it principally collects leaves, he mentioned). There’s even a weather-proof out of doors TV, nonetheless working completely, a lot to Ben’s amazement.
If there’s one room that basically displays who Ben Stokes is, it’s the memorabilia room. From his first five-wicket haul to his World Cup ultimate shirt (sure, nonetheless unwashed), each bit means one thing.
There’s even a stump from the 2015 Ashes win, solely signed by 8 teammates as a result of, as Ben places it, “There’s solely eight signatures on the stump, we’d clearly had sufficient booze that day that I forgot to get the others to signal it.”
Story continues under this advert
The house bar isn’t only for drinks, it’s half shrine for his trophies. The cabinets are lined with unopened bottles of champagne from “Man of the Match” awards and medals from an extended and embellished profession. There’s even his outdated Sports activities Persona of the Yr trophy (you get to maintain it for a yr, then get a reproduction).
There’s a gaming room too, full with triple screens, professional lighting, and a large streaming setup. There’s additionally a golf simulator, however Stokes clearly prefers cricket to golf equipment.
The cinema room is equally spectacular. Initially not sure concerning the design, the Stokes’ have grown to adore it. It’s their go-to spot for household film nights (as soon as they restock the snacks).
Upstairs remains to be a piece in progress. However there’s already a custom-built dance studio for daughter Libby, who’s into gymnastics and cheer. Ben even put up the mirrors himself.
Story continues under this advert
The master suite is straightforward and chic, with a high-end ensuite that contains a no-handle door and a tub with a TV throughout from it. The dressing room has been absolutely remodelled too, his-and-hers sinks, {custom} cabinets, and sufficient area for Clare’s purses and his sneakers.
In late 2024, their household residence was the scene of a break-in. Whereas Ben was away, masked intruders broke in whereas Clare and their two youngsters had been inside. Among the many gadgets stolen: Ben’s OBE medal and priceless memorabilia. Luckily, nobody was harmed, and an investigation remains to be ongoing.