Laura Kaehler

Our clients wanted a new home built in an exclusive waterfront private enclave on Narragansett Bay. The property was narrow and long, and our clients stressed their desire for views of the Bay, including the Newport Bridge, from all rooms.

Key Design Features

To provide water views from all rooms and maximize the length of the property, we oriented the entry further into the site accessed down a stone garden path from the motor court. To draw attention that this was the main entrance, we designed the front door within a tower reminiscent of a lighthouse. This tower features a large round nautical mahogany window and bracketed peaked roof.
To provide relaxed vacation living, we designed one large gathering space or Great Room that functions as the hub of the home. This centrally located two-story space, (30’ x 30’ x 25’) has panoramic views through large spans of glass. Each room on both the first and second floors pin wheel off of this space. A large stone fireplace anchors the great room and guest bedrooms are accessible from a balcony above.
To provide detail and emphasize the scale of this large Great Room, we framed the room using rough hewn posts and beams, lower ceiling sitting bays, a large stone fireplace and a natural stained and painted wood stair with a balcony above.
To allow easy access to the exterior, French doors line the exterior walls and lead out to a porch and terraces. Outdoor entertaining areas include a built in fire pit, infinity edge swimming pool, and putting green.
To reduce the apparent size of the new home, we designed a separate 2-½ car garage with a guest suite and study above. Because of the careful orientation of this accessory building, the guest room and study each have magnificent views of the bay.