Hey Rhody Home October 2021

Interior Design Services / Custom Kitchen & Bath Design / Cabinetry

Custom Home Builders serving South County for over 20 years 130 Kersey Road, South Kingstown / (401) 783-7231 / bowsebuilders.com

24

FEATURES

CO V E R S TO R Y

HYGGE HOME Making spaces ready for Rhody’s coziest season

56 D E CO R AT E

INFLUENCER

Practical meets pretty for West Warwick’s rising DIY star

66 E N T E R TA I N

EXPERIENCE A first foray into luxe picnicking and polo in Newport

74 I N S P I R AT I O N

REALTY STAR The Narragansett Victorian with a starring role on PBS’ This Old House

2

An autumnal colorway Ph oto by Vi s u al M an or

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

sum

fine and custom rugs wall-to-wall carpets tailored runners exclusive brands expert service

RUSTIGIAN RUGS

because, quite simply, we know rugs | one governor street, providence | 401-751-5100 | rustigianrugs.com

CONTENTS

78 50

P ho to co urtesy of Red Hou s e Cu stom Bu i l d

Photography by Christian Scully of Design Imaging Studios, courtesy of David Sisson

62

P ho to cou rtesy of Th e Ch ees e Wh eel

News & Life

Decorate

Entertain

Inspiration

12 Historic home in Lincoln

46 Inside a Newport loft

60 RHODY RECIPE: An

70 Providence photographer

gets second chance

that has mastered shades of white and efficiency

autumnal soup features orzo and tomato

shares passion for old homes

50 A couple designs

62 Curate your next

the minimalist home of their dreams in PVD

charcuterie board with cheeses from statewide shops

80 CALENDAR: This

65 Warren-based chef

81 #HEYRHODYPHOTOS : A

uses passed-down methods to create allergen-free pasta

colorful mosaic from our talented followers via Instagram

14 RHODY PETS: The joy fostering a dog can bring to your life

16 RHODY GEM: A 20,000-square-foot collector’s paradise in Pawtucket

18 House concerts offer a snug alternative to large venues

54 Practical tips for adding curb appeal with outdoor projects

78 Expert advice for making bold cabinet color choices

month’s must-do’s

20 RHODY READS: 6 books to curl up with this month On the Cover: A Newport loft featured in the new book Shades of White by Fifi O’Neill.

4

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Let’s Talk : dbcri.com

433 Main Street, Wakefield • 401.783.1030 • Registered in RI 29141, CT HIC0660676, & MA 201342

Alicia Reynolds

ONLINE

October 2021

Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell

General Manager & Creative Director Nick DelGiudice

Editor in Chief Elyse Major

Managing Editor Abbie Lahmers

Editor Karen Greco Digital Media Manager Sascha Martin Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas

Senior Editorial Designer Abigail Brown

Senior Designer Taylor Gilbert Account Managers Shelley Cavoli

Web Extra: How cleaning up the

Louann DiMuccio-Darwich

Woonasquatucket River helped transform a city neighborhood into an industrial arts hub

Ann Gallagher Kristine Mangan Olf Elizabeth Riel

It’s been a journey, but I’ve gained a world of knowledge on what it takes to move! If you are looking to buy or sell, I can help you make that a successful experience!

NEWSLETTER:

Interested in advertising?

Email Marketing@ProvidenceOnline.com Contributing Photographers Julia Barber

Gina Mastrostefano

Caitlin Durand

Visual Manor

Rick Farrell

Nat Rea

James Hardie

Christian Scully

Grace Lentini

Rusty Williams

Mark Lohman Contributing Writers Ken Abrams

Karen Kalunian

Carli Alves

Hugh Minor

Julia Barber

Liz Murray

Patty J

Fifi O’Neill

Belinda Jones

Chuck Staton

Interns

Photo by Caitlin Durand

Emma Nicholson Looking for an internship?

Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com Distribution Services Special Delivery

Subscribe Today!

HeyRhody.com/MailToYou

Presented by Providence Media, publishers of The Bay, Providence Monthly, and So Rhode Island

401-835-2605

www.aliciareynoldsrealtor.com

6

Subscribe to our free Hey Rhody email newsletter for: • Weekly must-do’s • Online exclusives • And more!

1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889 401-305-3391 • Mail@ProvidenceOnline.com HeyRhody.com Copyright ©2021 by Providence Media.

All rights reserved.

@HeyRhody HeyRhody.com

Proud member of the Rhode Island Press Association

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LOVE? Call Debra

401-289-0900 Complimentary consultation She personally interviews and screens her clients Both men and women are guaranteed to meet potential partners Hand crafted matches, no computer program or software

Dear Readers, You may have noticed some changes recently to our format. Based on responses, over the course of the past months we shifted our contents to be thematic, starting with April’s Annual Home Guide. In fact, that issue was such a success that readers asked for more! For the first time, Hey Rhody October is a home issue.

Along with nesting ideas, these many pages are packed with star power! We’re honored to share a first look at Shades of White: Serene Spaces for Effortless Living, the latest book from international bestselling author Fifi O’Neill which features a Newport loft where the owners have astutely maximized style in a very small footprint (page 46). There are also behind-the-scenes looks at the “Seaside Victorian” in Narragansett, as seen on This Old House on page 74, and meet West Warwick’s Carli Alves, recently named one of “102 Black Designers, Crafters, Makers, and More to Follow on Instagram Now” by Country Living magazine. Alves shares about herself and offers excellent tips in both the Influencer column on page 56 and an article on curb appeal on page 54.

Cooler evenings are the gateways to comfort foods and we’ve got you covered with a soup

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

recipe on page 60 that relies on fresh, local produce and sundries; however, it’s still warm enough for a fancy picnic, so we’re sharing about an experience on page 66 that’s sure to entice you into enlisting Stoneacre’s latest endeavor for your next outdoor soiree. Also, meet a chef out of Warren’s Hope & Main who wants everyone to be able to enjoy pasta, and regular contributor, Cranston-based Patty J, reports on her mission to find the best cheese shops around the state for your fall snacking.

In this issue find inspiration for both keeping snug indoors with tips and goods from small businesses, and reasons to get you back out again to experience the wonders our state has to offer. We even suggest a new word – hyggerhody ; read all about it in the cover story on page 24.

Debra L’Heureux, Rhode Island’s top Matchmaker for Get Ready To Date has been in the business of helping people find love for over 18 years!

JOIN MY MATCHMAKING DATABASE AT GETREADYTODATE.COM

Enjoy !

Editor In Chief

Elyse Major

HeyRhody.com

7

401.821.2729 FaganDoor.com

Bring the Autumn colors of your garden indoors this season with unique gifts & decor from our

HOME & GARDEN SHOP

659 Frenchtown Road • East Greenwich 401.885.4112 • WildWoodRI.com

8

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Creating custom homes, additions and renovations with superior form and function for over 35 years 401-792-4890 • HebertDesignBuild.com

HebertDesignBuildRI

IASIMONE PLUMBING

HebertDesignBuild

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN!

HEATING & DRAIN CLEANING, INC.

INSTALLATIONS REPAIRS • REPLACEMENTS We are always providing a Free Estimate

WINNER OF THE SUPER SERVICE AWARD FROM ANGIE’S LIST FOUR YEARS IN A ROW! We Can Do Anything With Water

Except Walk On It Servicing All of Rhode Island for over 35 years!

14,000 SQFT SHOWROOM! QUALITY FURNITURE & ANTIQUES… You Won’t Find Anywhere Else!

Monday - Friday | 7:00am to 6:00pm

Post-Modern • Vintage • Oriental Rugs • Mid-Century and Other Household Items

27 Allen Avenue, North Providence (401) 300-9761 • Iasimonephdc.com Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

881 Westminster Street • Providence • 861-6872 • rjlgallery.com • rjlgallery@gmail.com Wednesday-Friday: 11am-6pm • Saturday & Sunday: 11am-5pm

9

September 30 - October 31

It’s music to our ears as the nationally acclaimed walk-through Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo is back and better than ever. Presented by Citizens, this year’s spectacular takes you from Joplin to Jay-Z as we celebrate the greatest music from the last 150 years. Stroll, or dance your way, past thousands of intricately carved pumpkins displayed while listening to soundtracks from the 1860’s through today.

Tickets at: rwpzoo.org/jols

NEWS & LIFE

P re s e r va t i o n | R h o d y P e t s | R h o d y G e m | H o u s e Co n c e r t s | R h o d y Re a d s

18 Allysen Caller y performing at The Fair y House, Providence Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Photo by Ken Abrams

11

NEWS & LIFE

Stone Ender Gets New Start

A n ew life fo r L i n co l n ’ s Val ent i n e W hit m a n H ouse t ha nk s to Pre se r ve Rh o d e I s l a n d

By Emma Nicholson

T

12

The stone ender is a construction type unique to Rhode Island

to come,” says Valerie Tamage, executive director of Preser ve Rhode Island. “ With this change in ownership, the historically important Valentine Whitman House is guaranteed to be part of Rhode Island’s landscape for generations to come.”

The town of Lincoln also anticipates a bright future for this historic property. “ The

town is grateful that Preser ve Rhode Island agreed to take on the stewardship of the Valentine Whitman House,” says Keith Macksoud, president of the Lincoln Town Council. “ We’re delighted that they will invest in the rehabilitation of this historic place, restoring it to good condition to be preser ved for the future.” Learn more at PreserveRI.org

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Photos courtesy of Preserve Rhode Island

hough it has remained relatively vacant for the last few decades, the Valentine Whitman House is a historic gem not only to Lincoln, but the entire state – one that will soon be given a new life, thanks to Preser ve Rhode Island.

Located along Great Road, the Valentine Whitman House (circa 1696) is one of the state’s only remaining stone ender structures, a style unique to Rhode Island marked by one wall made up entirely of a stone chimney.

The property was purchased by the Town of Lincoln in 1991 after threats of demolition.

Volunteers have taken care of the house ever since.

As of July 15, the house transferred ownership from the town of Lincoln to Preserve Rhode Island, a nonprofit organization with the goal of preserving history in the state. In a groundbreaking ceremony on the property, representatives from Preserve Rhode Island and Heritage Restoration Inc. shared plans for the complete rehabilitation of the property. Their goal is to transform the house into an active residence or one available for vacation stays.

The rehabilitation project includes extensive repairs and the installation of modern features, all while preser ving its historic, 17th centur y character. President of Heritage Restoration Rob Cagnetta says, “ We are honored to have been selected to rehabilitate the Valentine Whitman House and be part of this remarkable 17th centur y building ’s histor y.

These needed repairs will set the property on the course for its next 300 years.”

While an exciting undertaking for the historic home, this rehabilitation has been a long time coming. Without significant funding , in addition to economic consequences of the pandemic, the future of historic properties is not always g uaranteed.

“Preser ve Rhode Island is proud to help municipalities navigate these complicated choices, finding new life for historic properties and preser ving their historic significance while ensuring their usefulness for generations

Progress is underway

NEWS & LIFE

Rhody Pets:

THE JOY OF FOSTERING PETS

Opening heart and home to dogs in need

By Belinda Jones, Animal Rescue Rhode Island Photography by Belinda Jones

Photo by Karen Kalunian

RHODY PET OF THE MONTH: Lyla This Pit Bull-mix is looking for a home

By Karen Kalunian Lyla’s only dream is to find a loving forever home where she can spend her days with her new best friend. This smart, beautiful pup is in search of a home where she will be your one and only princess. She loves to be with her person, so if you work from home – even better! Lyla is a two-yearold medium-sized Pit Bull mixed breed.

She loves to run and play fetch, so a fenced-in yard would be a plus. Lyla will be forever grateful to the lucky human who invites her into their life. Learn more at EGAPL Heart of RI Animal Rescue League HeartofRI.org or call 401-4673670; 44 Worthington Road, Cranston.

If you are looking to adopt or know of an animal in need, please contact Karen from Animal Talk directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com

flatfish cottage shop-pup Abbie blending in with the decor

Looking to add unique accents of fluff to your sofa ? Perhaps a sandy paw print or two to your designer rug ? Fostering a pet can bring that most stylish of elements to your home : love! Katie and Jim Fusaro know a lot about both; not only do they own Wickford Villagehome store flatfish cottage, they also recently fostered a Yellow Lab named Annie and all ten of her puppies. Yes, ten!

“This experience touched my soul and pulled us closer together as a family,” shares Katie, who fostered with Cranston’s Heart of RI. “Life was pulling us in different directions but cuddling and playing with those babies and their mama had us prioritizing being together.

They prompted so much laughter and wonder, just watching their pure joy at discovering each

14

blade of grass or mist coming from a hose!”

Though the family is keeping puppy Abbie, Fusaro admits there was a lot of ugly crying saying goodbye to the others. “I truly loved each little personality but I know that opening our home gave them the start they needed, with lots of love and security.”

Heart of RI currently has 14 dogs, cats, and kittens in foster care. “We focus on nursing moms and under-socialized animals that need to learn how to be in a home,” explains executive director Tammy Gallo. “Breed and sizes run the gamut. We recently had two Chihuahuas and four Great Danes! Our 10-year-old Great Dane went to hospice care with a foster and though London passed away after three months, what a wonderful, loving, caring end of life she had!”

What advice would Gallo give first time fosters? “It’s a huge, scary commitment that you won’t regret; in fact you will want to do it again and again,” she enthuses. “You will be their hero!”

And what about the common concern of becoming a “foster fail” – meaning taking in a dog on a temporary basis and bonding to the point that you can’t bear to be parted? “Fostering saves lives, especially with dogs that need a paw up. If you are happy to see the foster you nurtured go to their new adopted family, that leaves you available to foster again and save another life. If you choose to adopt, you get a new furry love of your life! Either way you can’t lose!” Learn more about fostering at Heartof RI.org and visit Abbie and Katie at flatfish cottage, 12 Main Street, Wickford, Saturdays and Sundays from 10-5pm.

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

UNLEASH THE FUN!

Open House

Saturday, October 30th, 9am Book Your Pup Now For The Howlidays!

A progressive independent school on a scenic twelve-acre campus

3 Keyes Way, West Warwick 401-250-3595 • CampBowWow.com

Nursery through eighth grade East Providence

(Down the street from Cardi's Furniture)

Where every day is

“Friendly, accommodating and welcoming. Facilities are always clean... The staff are incredible, and truly get to know each dog and each dog parent by name. It truly feels like a close-knit community. The activities that the staff plans add another layer of fun and uniqueness. Dogtopia [is] the perfect one-stop-shop for all of our dog care needs.

We would be lost without Dogtopia!” - Customer Testimonial

grooming

daycare

DOGTOPIA OF WARWICK Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

boarding

training

30 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick 401-903-4900 | Dogtopia.com/Warwick

15

NEWS & LIFE

Rhode Island Antiques Mall Anti q ue sto re What it is: This 20,000-square-foot facility houses 200 antique dealers with a broad range of items, including furniture, jewelr y and watches, pop -culture collectibles, tableware, oddities, and other relics of the past.

W h e re to f i n d i t : Located right off Exit 29 of I-95 Northbound, just after the Pawtucket “S” cur ves, you can’t miss the big “ANTIQUES” right above the building ’s entrance.

W h a t m a k e s i t a R h o d y G e m?

From extravagant rattan chairs and taxidermy creatures to colorful Fiestaware and collectible coins, the RI Antiques Mall is both a gem in itself and a place for uncovering them. It’s easy to get lost traipsing through recent decades as you meander from booth to booth. Antiquers hunting down a specific genre of item or those just looking for that attention-grabbing furnishing for their home will have luck here – the store boasts a record of being one of New England’s highest-volume sources for antiques for the past 15 years. “Over that time it’s become not only a favorite place to shop but also a social hub for countless like-minded collectors where numerous lifelong relationships and even several marriages have formed,” explains RIAM owner Scott Davis. “If you’ve got the collecting bug , you belong here!”

345 Fountain Street, Pawtucket 401-475-3400 RIAntiquesMall.com Facebook: Rhode Island Antiques Mall

Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love.

We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems!

Email Abbie@ProvidenceOnline.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!

Photo courtesy of Rhode Island Antiques Mall

Rhode Island Antiques Mall

NEWS & LIFE

Music in the House

Lo ca l mu sic ians turn to the intimate venues of living rooms and backyards

By Ken Abrams

Allysen Callery House Concert

Bob Kendall and Allysen Callery

Photo (R) by Rick Farrell

W

hen COVID essentially shut down the concert industr y, one creative response to the absence of live music was the “house concert,” an event that has grown dramatically in recent years.

Precisely what it sounds like, a house concert books a musician or band at a private home, where g uests are invited and often, food and drink is provided. Concerts can be indoors or outdoors, usually dependent on the season.

Some hosts pay performers by “passing the hat,” while others charge a small fee or engage a sponsor. Typically singer-song writers flock to this intimate venue, though the trend emerged in the 1970s with hip -hop and punk bands playing garages and basements. Today, often in the settings of backyards or barns, more adventurous house concerts draw the occasional mosh pit, too.

Indie musicians are particularly fond of house concerts. Bristol-based singer-song writer Allysen Callery explains, “House concerts

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

are my favorite because people are there to really listen. It’s really relaxed and you’re in someone’s living room or backyard. It’s just really magical.”

Artists and hosts agree that a performance can be more personal, as well. “With house concerts, there’s an intimacy you can’t get in other places. It’s a true listening experience, where the artists know they’ll be heard and appreciated,” says Annie Kennedy from Providence, a concert sponsor for the past several years.

“I was at an album release at a local venue that is absolutely fabulous at supporting the music community and drawing great acts. But a group at the bar was so loud they drowned out the music. You could tell it was bothering the performer, who was trying to share with the world something she’d worked so hard on,” Kennedy explains. “At house concerts, there’s no distraction. Music is the center, every time.”

One veteran of the house concert scene is WRIU DJ Dan Ferg uson, who has been hosting shows since 2001. He explains how his

HeyRhody.com

Roots Hoot House Concerts, which bring national touring acts to South County, developed : “ We began in December of 2001 because I was tired of acts from the roots/ alt-countr y/Americana realm either passing on Providence or, when they did play, no one showing up. I decided to take matters into my own hands.” “ The shows differ in that you have a cap tive audience in a house atmosphere, which for us is a house full of art and color. It is hard not to come here and be fully engaged with the band, especially when you could be standing just a foot or two away from them.

Our audience loves it.”

Ferg uson adds, “ The fans get an up -closeand-personal show with an artist and even get to hang out in our kitchen with them at times. As the legendar y Chip Taylor of ‘ Wild Thing ’ fame said of the tightly packed room when he played here in the mid-aughts, ‘ We are all in this together.’ Win-win.” Learn more at ConcertsInYourHome.org

19

NEWS & LIFE

Rhody Reads Explore the comforts of home

with books by local authors

By Hug h Minor

“

H

ome is where the heart is” and the six books we’ve chosen for this month’s Rhody Reads are full of heart. These local selections celebrate the places we live, love, and, even more so today, work. You’ll experience spaces real and imagined that bring us a sense of comfort, security, and histor y.

A home is more than four walls with windows on a neighborhood street; it’s a feeling that is often hard to describe.

In Home to Italy, Rhode Island author Peter Pezzelli tells the stor y of Mario, who returns to Abruzzo after his wife’s passing. Although he resists change, it may be exactly what he needs as he builds new relationships and reestab lishes himself in the quaint village in Italy where he first learned to ride a bike.

Sometimes, you can go home again.

Dwellings in New England may not be as old as those over yonder in Europe, but we still have some historic styles.

Covering the American Revolution to the present day, Jane Nylander’s Windows on the Past: Four Centuries of New England Homes explores the rich histo r y of where we live and how our spaces have changed as our needs evolved. The gorgeous photos accompanying make it a tour that you can enjoy from the comfort of your couch.

The summer home is a staple of New England, and George Howe Colt’s The Big House is a classic. The memoir explores a family’s century-long history with a treasured house on Cape Cod. As he faces the sale of the family landmark, Colt explores the emotions and experiences that accompany letting go and moving on. Times have changed, but our memories remain.

20

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Many abodes may seem like museums, but Robert J. Regalbuto’s New England House Museums: A Guide to More than 100 Mansions, Cottages, and Historical Sites shows us actual institutions that explore and celebrate the structures that surround us. Plan your tour of 100 locations – that’s only two per week for a year – and experience what it was like to live in a different time and place.

While her father and uncle are fighting overseas during World War II, 11-year-old Alice remains in Providence, where she desperately wants to make a difference in fighting for the cause. In Alice at the Home Front, Mardiyah Tarantino chronicles this young woman’s stor y as she helps prepare for the worst while dreaming of one day becoming a pilot. Will her imagination prevail as the war lingers on and those she loves face the worst ?

Ever yone enjoys a ride through the countr y, imagining what life must be like on a farm, then and now.

Robert A. Geake’s Historic Rhode Island Farms is that road trip in book form. The historic barns and outbuildings that Geake features were an essential part of the local economy for centuries. Although that lifestyle is mostly behind us, the book provides a loving reminder of our histor y.

Send your Rhody book recommendations to Hugh at RhodyReads@gmail.com

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

SUPPORT INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORES Great reasons to never buy books at that A to Z place again: Barrington Books: BarringtonBooks.com Book Nerd: Barrington, Facebook Books on the Pond: Charlestown, BooksOnThePond.com Books on the Square: Providence, BookSq.com Cellar Stories Bookstore: Providence, CellarStories.com Charter Books: Newport, CharterBookStore.com Inkfish Books: Warren, InkFishBooks.com Island Books: Middletown, IslandBooksRI.indielite.org Island Bound Bookstore: Block Island, IslandBoundBookstore.com Lovecraft Arts & Sciences: Providence, WeirdProvidence.org Paper Nautilus Books: Providence, PaperNautilusBooks.com Rarities Books & Bindery: Wakefield, RaritiesOnline.com Riffraff Bookstore + Bar: Providence, RiffRaffPVD.com Savoy Bookshop & Cafe: Westerly, BankSquareBooks.com Stillwater Books: Pawtucket, StillwaterBooksRI.com Symposium Books: Providence, SymposiumBooks.com Twenty Stories: Providence, TwentyStoriesLA.com Wakefield Books: Wakefield, WakefieldBooks.com

21

Summer Fades. Color Stays.

Give your home a fresh look with a Perfect Touch!

Paint this Fall

BUY ONE GET ONE BENJAMIN MOORE® COLOR SAMPLE

Reach out today and let us make sure you get the best paint and advice to get your project done right. Hurry, this exclusive offer ends 11/26/2021

523906011234

Depault

Hardware

PERFECT TOUCH INTERIORS

Family owned & operated for over 30 years

Remodel Consulting & Design Custom Interior Decorating & Window Treatments

2000 Mendon Road, Cumberland 401-333-9855 • depaulthardware.com Offer valid for one (1) free Benjamin Moore® Color Sample with the purchase of one (1) Benjamin Moore® Color Sample. Excludes Aura® and Century®. Redeemable only at participating retailers. Limit one per customer. Products may vary from store to store. Subject to availability. Retailer reserves the right to cancel this offer at any time without notice. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Offer expires 10/31/2021. ©2020 Benjamin Moore & Co. Aura, Benjamin Moore, Century, Color Selection Simplified, and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co. 6/20

Remodel in Cranston, RI

perfecttouchinteriors.com | 401-944-4440 | info@perfecttouchinteriors.com

Because Your Home Matters to You!

First Quality Fabrics | Design Assistance | Custom Bedding Custom Fabrication | Custom Lampshades | Hardware (Rods) Outdoor Selections | Pillows | Re-Upholstery | Slipcovers Shades | Shutters | Trims | Window Treatments | Wallpaper • Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm | Saturdays 11am-3pm | Closed Sunday & Monday •

606 Ten Rod Road • North Kingstown, RI 02852 • 401-295-2760 • fabricgalleryri.com

22

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

HERE TO HELP YOU FIND YOUR DREAM HOME!

JAZZMINE NAPOLITANO BROKER/OWNER

THE ULTIMATE GIFT FOR OYSTER LOVERS

Like A

Oysters? to open ‘em?

Over 1 MILLION oysters opened without injury!

Servicing RI & Mass Specializing in Relocation

401.225.7070 jaz9890@msn.com

1

2

FAST, SAFE, EASY! Opens horizontally, keep juices in the shell Now ANYONE can open Oysters!

780 HOPE STREET, PROVIDENCE

207-592-4775 207-563-1146 • 207-592-4775 207-563-1146 www.awshucksoysteropener.com www.awshucksoysteropener.com

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL ARCHITECTURE

401-595-7070 | INFO@DSARCH.COM | WWW.DS-ARCH.COM Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

23

Let's Get

Cozy Take cues from autumn hues to create a comfortable retreat for fall and beyond

BY ELYSE MAJOR For the past two years – and we’re not evening mentioning the P-word – many of us clocked a lot of hours in our homes; this year, thankfully, we have options.

However, it’s a natural fact that as temps begin to drop, mild hibernation will resume, so let’s embrace this truth and set the stage for a season of cozy.

A handful of years ago, the word “hygge” made its way onto the American scene.

Pronounced hoo-gah, it’s a Danish concept derived from Old Norwegian meaning well-being and it describes creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life. There are even related words, like “hyggebukser” which are lounge pants you wouldn’t want to be seen in at the store, or “hyggekrog” which translates to a favorite small spot to nest or that corner on the couch where you most like to curl up.

Photography by Grace Lentini

Let’s add “hyggerhody ” to the lexicon: enjoying being in the smallest state.

Use natural textures and colors to fill spaces with warmth Photography by Grace Lentini

Seasoned Rhode Islanders know all too well that just because the calendar says Autumn Equinox, there are still many warm days ahead. Halloween can mean shorts or a snow jacket, and just like our wardrobes, transitional layers in our living spaces are what it’s all about. Early fall is when most of us haven’t quite put away those lightweight cotton Ts, but the plaid flannel shirts start moving their way for ward in the closet. Those flip -flops are now toe-to -toe with shoes and boots, and even – gasp – socks return to the laundr y basket. The same applies to home interiors. Suddenly that watermelon candle is replaced with pumpkin spice, mums are the new hydrangeas, and heavy mugs get more use than iced tea glasses. Taking a note from the season and our personal styles, there are many ways to make home ready for seasonal changes along with ideas for imbuing a constant cozy vibe all year long , no matter the forecast.

Natural INSTINCTS

Is there anything more glorious than the changing leaves of autumn? Keeping curtains open whenever possible to take advantage of the view fills even the smallest room with burnished tones. Be inspired by natural pairings of brown and orange with pops of fier y reds and yellows, or a range of greens – from leaves still hanging to pine needles. Visit a farm stand and look closely at the produce : a cartful of gourds is full of color combos from greenon-green to coral and mint, and faded orange with the palest straw brown. Note favorites when thinking of ways to bring color into living spaces.

Nature is the ultimate mix-master: look to gourds for color and pattern inspo Photos courtesy of The Farmer's Daughter

GET Luxe

Photo by Caitlin Durand

Yards once dotted with small flowers are now layered in foliage : large leaves, clusters of needles, and pinecones of various shapes and sizes. Larger motifs begin to emerge in textiles as well – damask over ditsy florals, buffalo check instead of gingham, and of course, the lure of all things plaid! Textiles are among the simplest and quickest ways to outfit a home for fall and winter.

In the bedroom, flannel sheets rule the day (and night), along with an extra quilt or two. In the living room, nothing makes things cat-nap ready like a chunky throw and soft pillows. Add unexpected luxe with velvet or something sequined! “Pillows are like jewels in a room and because you don’t need a lot of fabric, you can use high-end luxurious fabric to elevate the luxe in the room,” says Providence-based interior designer Michelle Cortizo.

Changing window treatments to heavier materials can also mean keeping drafts at bay, and small area rugs can help with the shock of cold floors in the morning. Beyond fabric, Nicole Martel of Three Sparrows Interior Design in Warren offers, “My favorite way to add coziness and warmth to any room is through texture: brass metal finishes, warm wood accessories, and amber-colored glass.”

Similar weight fabrics in a consistent colorway lend to effortless mixing and matching Photography by Grace Lentini, styled by Jenna Kinghorm

PRO -TIP: Buy standard-sized throw pillow forms at fabric shops and have fun with different covers throughout the year.

COUCH Life

“Cozy cottage living is my mantra,” says interior designer and Blanc + Bleu co founder Jenna Kinghorn of Riverside. “It’s about creating a space that feels comfortable, inviting , warm, and not too fussy. Pretty yet practical : a place where you can pick any spot in your home and curl up with a good book and a cup of Earl Grey tea and just chill.” Camping out on the couch? Keep items within reach on the coffee table as active accessories: stacks of books to read or enjoy leafing through, a basket of crafting essentials (knitting , beads, etc.), puzzles, paint-by-number kits and coloring books, and copies of Hey Rhody!

Photography by Visual Manor

Solid couches easily transition with the seasons via pillows Photography by Visual Manor

Photography by Visual Manor

Scavenger HUNT

Photo by Caitlin Durand

Emerge from the cocoon to explore your surroundings and find objects to bring back inside. Take a nature walk on a trail and when you return with your bounty, fill a vase with tall sticks, or a deep dish with pinecones. Iron leaves between sheets of wax paper, just like in elementar y school. Three Sparrows’ Martel advises employing greener y when decorating for any season. “Fresh or dried flowers add the finishing touches that make a space look put together and lived in. Spring and summer may mean using florals while fall/winter leans toward dried silver dollar eucalyptus.”

MAKE AN Entrance

Whether you want to go all-out with hay bales and stalks, or a simple swag of bundled native corn posted to the door, it’s fun to signal the season. Pumpkins and gourds are readily available at farm stands statewide, as are pots of mums. For extra hygge points, treat yourself to a baked good while you’re at a farm stand and enjoy ever y bite. Tiverton food and reno -enthusiast Caitlin Durand concurs, “Pumpkin pie with friends on a cool Sunday afternoon and being wrapped in a mega cable knit throw blanket on my couch watching Harry Potter movies defines hygge for me!”

Caitlin Durand gets her home ready for fall – inside and out Photo by Caitlin Durand

SHOP Cozy Items from small shops around the state sure to add comfort and warmth: 1. Journal, Green Ink, Providence and Wickford 2. Specimen Collecting Kit, Green Ink, Providence and Wickford 3. Dip Set, Coco and Lala, Watch Hill 4. Mug , OMO, Westerly 5. RI Soapworks Handsoap, shops statewide 6. Matches, The Perfect Match Shop, Warwick 7. Candle, Aster Candle, Providence 8. Paint-by-Number Kit, The Greener y, Warren 9. Twin River Rug , Rhody Rug , Inc., Lincoln 10. Chenille Chunky Knit Blanket, Cozy Cloud Knits, West Greenwich

A large-scale mural is a luxe touch in the Cortizo home Photography by Grace Lentini

LET IT Glow

Solar lights add a magical glow Photo courtesy of Jen Thum

Embrace longer nights by creating a bit of magic indoors and out. Candles are a favorite for adding flicker and scent, but strands of indoor lights along a shelf, draped from a hook, or framing a mirror make any night feel festive. Batter y-operated votive candles placed in jars are a safe option if young children are around. Solar lights outside may not stay on ver y late, but seeing them from the inside adds ambiance. And of course, if you have a fireplace, you’re golden; if not, there’s a fireplace channel on YouTube complete with crackling sounds!

“Lighting is the mother of enhancers; no matter what house I’m in or the style I’m emphasizing , ever y light is on a dimmer,” says Cortizo. “From living spaces to bookcase interiors and bathrooms – dimmers! I also burn candles ever y day because why not ?

Flowers bring added life, music brings depth to the air, and I use ever ything. I don’t wait for special occasions because you can never be sure if there will be another one. Ever y day is special, so why not celebrate daily ?”

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | CLOSETS mid-century modern

our

RUSTIC

Award Winning

Deßignerß

Traditional

contemporary

transitional

Can help you create your dream space No matter what your style is

You don’t have to follow trends or choose what your neighbor’s have. I want people to believe in Cypress Design Co. and their own instincts. It’s their home and their space, they should love it and it should feel like them.

Jennifer Voll Owner and Operating Manager

Schedule a Virtual consultation or a covid-friendly showroom appointment today!

15 Dexter Rd, East Providence Cypressdesignco.com • 401-438-5105

Learn How To Achieve Protection and Security For Your Financial Future

Buy or Sell Your Home “The REALPRO Way!”

Residential and Commercial sales Serving RI & Mass

Check out our videos for more details

DANTE PALIOTTI, CREDIT AGENT (213) 321-6059 CreditMasterDAnte@Gmail.com

UCESPROTECTIONPLAN.COM

Kitchen Design

Gallery Hrs: M-F 10am - 5pm | Sat 10am - 1pm 2202 Broad St , Cranston, RI 02905

Center

7736 Post Road, North Kingstown • (401) 294-6500 • heritagekitchendesignri.com

34

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

GUIDE

Ready to fall into home ownership? Find handy facts and insights for planning and making your move in Rhode Island | By Elyse Major & Karen Greco

Fall For Rhode Island Real Estate With the market red hot and prime buying time of spring and summer behind us, buyers can take advantage of a cooler fall market. Here’s why now is a great time to start looking for your dream home.

THERE’S LESS COMPETITION Sellers are motivated to offload their properties, making it easier to negotiate lower prices or money-saving perks like covered closing costs.

IT ’S E ASIER TO SPOT HOME FL AWS Bare leaves and cleared out flower beds make it easier to spot flaws. Roofs, foundations, and siding are no longer hiding behind lush foliage, so you can locate potentially big problems.

SAVE ON MOVING COSTS Hiring professional movers is pricey, but you can score a better rate if you opt to move later fall and into winter.

Plus they’ll have more flexibility with dates.

TAX INCENTIVES There are tax implications to buying a home.

Property taxes, mortgage interest, and some closing costs are tax deductible. Take advantage of them by closing before December 31.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Sellers may want to spend the holidays in their new digs, so negotiating quicker closing dates may persuade them to knock off a few dollars. Added bonus, you’ll have time to celebrate the festive season in your new home, too.

NOT-SO-EXTREME MAKEOVER You will want to put your personal stamp on your new place. With the start of school behind us and the holidays looming, normally over-booked contractors finally have time to tackle smaller home improvement projects.

BUYER’S GUIDE

Rhody REAL ESTATE

BUYER’S GUIDE

The Financials LOANS AND RATES LONG TERM:

FIXED R ATE:

Lower monthly payment but you’ll pay more in interest.

Your interest rate and monthly principal and interest payment will stay the same, but your total monthly payment can still change—for example, your property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, or mortgage insurance might go up or down.

SHORT TERM: Higher monthly payment but you’ll pay less over time in interest.

ADJUSTABLE R ATE: Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) offer less predictability but may be cheaper in the short term. Source: ConsumerFinance.gov

Costs Unless you have the minimal trappings of a ver y first apartment (milk crates, futon) and can fit it all in somebody’s pick-up for the cost of pizza and beer, you probably need to hire movers.

According to Consumer Affairs, hiring movers can cost anywhere between a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on how far you’re moving and how much work you’re willing to do yourself. The amount of personal property you’re transporting also affects the total cost.

The average cost for a local move is $80 to $100 per hour for a team of two movers. The total cost you’ll pay for a local move is mostly a function of how long it takes the moving crew to load and unload the truck — meaning the more items you have, the more you’ll pay to move them.

Movers will also pack for you, for a fee, and therefore are responsible for “accidents.”

PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSUR ANCE ( PMI): An additional cost that will be required by your lender if you don’t put 20 percent down.

ELISE PENN PANSEY

Research Many factors go into deciding where to live. Do you want city-living with cafes within walking distance? Maybe something by the water? Or it could be based solely on how school systems rank. This is where going down various real estate website rabbit holes can help.

RILiving.com for example offers neighborhood reports, tax rates, and helpful stats about cities and towns, even the monthly median temperature (especially handy if you live in Bristol and wonder about the weather in FosterGlocester). Drive or walk around the immediate neighborhood so you don’t start complaining about the noise from the fire engines leaving the station that’s right around the corner.

The Pet Friendly Realtor

DEDICATION ...is a word that is both used and abused these days. But I want you to know that I really am dedicated to my customers and to my profession. If a real estate transaction is in your future, let’s talk.

Then you can decide for yourself if you really believe that I am...

Dedicated… to serving YOU! Call me today!

401.455.1625 www.elisepennpansey.com 401.521.9490 x22

Classes Many lenders require prospective buyers to participate in classes to help understand the process of buying and keeping a home. Like most ever ything else, classes have pivoted to accommodate remote options.

Also ask lenders about any special programs. RIHousing recently announced the 10kDPA program, which provides a $10,000 down payment assistance loan to eligible homebuyers in Rhode Island.

Butterman & Kryston, Inc. • 749 East Avenue, Pawtucket • @ Blackstone Blvd

fresh

forest arom a

s to fill y our favorite spaces

Inspection After falling for the first house or visiting many, you have found “the” house and made an offer. Next steps are inspections and appraisals. The inspection is for your own protection and is a step that should not be skipped. Ask your real estate or buyer’s agent to recommend a home inspector and make sure this person is reputable (check those creds). An inspector will examine the property inside and out, looking for serious flaws. According to CFPB, if your purchase contract is contingent on a satisfactor y inspection, you should be able to cancel the sale without penalty. You can also then be in a position to negotiate with the seller for certain repairs, etc.

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

37

BUYER’S GUIDE

REAL ESTATE

Who’s Who A glossary of titles to help decide which professional is right for you

BUYER’S AGENT: Assists and represents their clients through every step of the home-buying process, including finding the right home, negotiating an offer, recommending other professionals (e.g., mortgage brokers, real estate attorneys, settlement companies), and troubleshooting problems (e.g., home inspection or appraisal issues).

REAL ESTATE AGENT: Someone with a professional license to help people buy, sell, or rent all sorts of housing and real estate.

LISTING AGENT: A real estate agent who represents a home seller and helps clients who are selling with a wide range of tasks, including pricing their home, recommending home improvements or staging, marketing their home, holding open houses, coordinating showings with home buyers, negotiating with buyers, and overseeing the home inspection process and closing procedures.

REAL ESTATE BROKER: Someone who has taken education beyond the agent level as required by state laws and passed a broker’s license exam.

REALTOR: A licensed agent with the ability to use that widely respected title, an agent needs to be a member of the National Association of Realtors®.

The Rhode Island Association of REALTORS® is one of the largest trade organizations in Rhode Island with more than 6,000 members in approximately 900 offices.

RENTAL AGENT: Helps consumers find properties to rent.

FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR HOME

Make your home an irresistible feast for buyers by igniting all their senses with teases of fall using these tips.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Clean up fallen leaves, trim trees and hedges, clip dead summer flowers, and clean out the beds.

Take advantage of fall colors by placing potted autumn-hued flowers like chrysanthemums and marigolds along your walk and around the front porch. Accent with seasonal gourds and pumpkins.

Shorter days mean bringing out the light. Replace burned out fixtures with new amber or soft white bulbs to make your home inviting.

Clean the windows and opt for airy treatments to take advantage of the natural light.

Bring the inviting fall colors into your home with new throw pillows and blankets. They will add a pop of warmth to the room without the clutter.

Spice up your open house with warming scents.

Heat up apple cider with allspice, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and vanilla beans to entice buyers. The aroma will be irresistible and they will appreciate a cup on a chilly autumn day.

SELLER’S GUIDE

Help Buyers

SELLER’S GUIDE

EXPERT ADVICE:

What Local Agents Say When selling , it’s best to keep your house as organized and decluttered as possible.

It’s always a good idea to stage rooms to show how they are supposed to be used.

-Caitlyn Wass, Residential Properties

Listen to your realtor.

-Chris West, Gustave White

This is an incredibly dynamic and fast-moving seller’s market. When listing your home, make sure to work with a real estate agent who utilizes up-to-date market data and does not price your home simply based on past sales in your area. You will achieve the highest market value by pushing the market and capitalizing on the current activity. The pulse of the market is in the pendings.

Enjoy what you do for your clients. Listen carefully to their real estate needs and then put all your effort and more into achieving their goals!

-Kira Greene, Greene & Sweeney Team, Residential Properties

-Anita Langer, Residential Properties LTD

My tip for sellers: Take advantage of the higher sale prices and get on the market NOW. Even with the shortage of listings, don’t neglect repairs and condition – those still matter!

For buyers, bank a good deal of patience, listen to your realtor who is in the market every day and will be able to do an analysis with advice about a winning offer.

That being said, consult with your mortgage lender to know just how far over the asking price you are safe to go because many homes are indeed selling over asking.

-Pat Lenihan, Broker Manager of Coldwell Banker

With our current low inventory, buyers have one shot, in many cases, to make an offer on a home and make that offer stand out among many others. Escalation clauses have become common practice. Many homes that come to market continue to draw multiple offers and ultimately sell well above their asking price.

As a buyer, it’s important for your offer to stand out as much as possible among a sea of offers. Most times, a buyer will submit an offer at asking price and apply an incremental escalation over and above other offers up to a max purchase price of their choosing. One way to get your offer to stand out is to consider starting the base price of your offer above the asking price to grab the seller’s attention right off the bat. Then, utilizing your Escalation Clause, instead of using a typical $1,000 incremental amount over the next highest offer, consider increasing the increments to a larger amount so that, if the escalation clause is applied, the sellers will end up with more money in their pocket at the end of the transaction.

-Keller Williams, Newport

Create Beautiful Outdoor Spaces with Ideal Hardscapes Patios & Pool Decks ■ Terraces & Multi-level Elevations ■ Outdoor Dining, Barbeques & Kitchens Fire Pits & Fireplaces ■ Seat Walls & Steps ■ Driveways & Walkways IDEAL CONCRETE BLOCK CO.

PaversbyIdeal.com ■ info@IdealConcreteBlock.com Waltham and Westford, MA ■ 800-24-IDEAL CONCRETE PAVERS ■ LANDSCAPE WALLS ■ STEPS & ELEMENTS ■ NATURAL STONE

ONE OF NEW ENGLAND'S LARGEST CONSIGNMENT SHOPS

TWO FLOORS 28,000 SQUARE FEET Antique To Modern Art • Books • Collectibles Electronics • Furniture • Glassware • Kitchenware Linens • Musical Instruments Pottery • Rugs Sterling Flatware And Holloware • Tools Vintage Clothing & More

CALL TO CONSIGN YOUR ITEMS

401-825-7670

For Terms visit:mikesestateservices.com/consign

65 Manchester Street, West Warwick Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

WED. – FRI. 10AM-5PM | SAT. 10AM-4PM SUN. 11AM-4PM | CLOSED MONDAYS & TUESDAYS

41

HOME DESIGN DESTINATION BOUTIQUE When it comes to designing your dream space, whether it’s a single room or entire home, it’s all in the details. That’s why the expert team at Exodus Design Group welcomes you to the state’s premier kitchen and bath showroom, where their skilled designers help you select everything from cabinetry and countertops to hardware and tile – and makes sure it all comes together.

At this destination boutique, clients can expect the red-carpet experience: A designer will take the time to get to know you and how you want to live in and use your space in order to develop the perfect concept that not only suits your style but your needs. Clients can peruse the massive collection of cabinetry, hardware, custom

fabrics, and more in the showroom, getting a feel for colors and textures and delighting in special details like paneled appliances or pull out spice racks and other cabinet accessories that will make your kitchen or bathroom luxurious and custom.

Exodus Design Group’s affinity for quality is reflected in the brands they carry. Find fine American-made cabinets by Tedd Wood, Bellmont, and Wellborn Forest; lighting fixtures by Hudson Valley and Quoizel; hardware by Richlieu; and custom fabrics

by Carole, Lee Jofa and Kravet. Clients can also select from brand-name appliances and plumbing fixtures; high-end stone, tile, and countertops including quartz, granite, and concrete; and home automation

• SPONSORED CONTENT •

features. The best part: Discover all of this and more under one roof.

Working with a professional design team brings a sense of cohesion and expertise to home projects that can’t be matched – and believe it or not, doesn’t have to be out of budget. When you partner and purchase through the team at Exodus, their design services are provided at no charge, and if you choose to use their builders, clients also enjoy further discounts on materials.

So, for your upcoming remodel, skip the scrolling online and make an appointment with Exodus Design Group for a one-onone consultation with an expert designer and tour of their envy-worthy showroom.

Exodus Design Group 351 Liberty Lane, Suite 16 West Kingston • 401-295-4300 ExodusDesignRI.com

DECORATE L o f t L i fe | C i ty M o d | C u r b A p p e a l | I n f l u e n ce r

46 A foundation of white makes a small loft feel luminous and air y P h o t o g ra p h y b y M a r k L o h m a n , s t y l i n g b y F i f i O ’ N e i l l , c o u r t e s y o f C I CO B o o k s

Artful Living

Despi te i t s t i ny foo t p r i nt , a N ew p o r t l o f t h a s ever y th in g th is c reative fa mily n eed s

By Fifi O’Neill

B

ernadette Heydt personifies the saying “ The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

Her late grandfather was a prominent contractor in New York City and one of the main contributors to building several of the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks. Her admiration for those accomplishments, combined with growing up alongside her father’s love of restoring unique properties, led her to her passion. “I knew interior design was what I wanted to pursue after years of witnessing my father’s appreciation for how architectural design can be both beautiful and functional,” she says. But it wasn’t until she was

46

19 and living in Italy that she decided to pursue her passion and enroll at the acclaimed Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence, where she received her bachelor’s degree in interior design.

Fast-for ward to 2013 when Heydt, who owns Heydt Home, an interior design firm, and Heydt + Mason, a full-ser vice creative agency, and her Italian-born husband, Andrea Pietrangeli, a videographer, moved back to the States to pursue their careers. Shortly after they settled in Newport, they purchased a property composed of three buildings dating back to the early 1800s.

Throughout the years, the complex has ser ved

Above: Despite its compact size the mood of the living room is one of serenity, uncluttered simplicity, and cohesiveness.

Built-in niches and shelving allow for tidy displays. Bernadette chose bamboo shades for the windows for texture and privacy but also to bring a coastal vibe into the space. Beautiful raw materials like the original beams and wide plank pine floor speak of the loft’s historic charm and character.

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.

DECORATE

The kitchen and eating area’s sober furnishings sustain the prevalent airy design established in the adjacent living room, and help keep the space orderly. With its clean lines and organic wood, the handsome dining table Andrea built is the focal point of the space.

The chairs that once belonged in the waiting room of a 1960s New York City advertising firm are Bernadette’s favorite pieces. She had them re-covered in a performance fabric that facilitates everyday use. A leather pig (another 1980s piece from Abercrombie and Fitch) brings a bit of levity to the decor. The butcher-block island is another of Andrea’s creations, which he crafted from white oak.

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

47

DECORATE

A pair of pedestals signals the entrance to the master bedroom. The ladder-like stairs lead to two small rooms, one Andrea’s office, the other Bernadette’s studio. A 15-foot plank bridge links the two spaces, making the trek from one to the other a bit daunting for the uninitiated

various functions, but it was originally used as horse stables and storage for their carriages.

Today, craftsmen, painters, sculptors, and photographers call the lovingly renovated compound home.

Despite its tiny footprint, the loft Heydt and Pietrangeli designed and share lives large and well. Built on a foundation of white, the space feels luminous, light, and air y.

And though the floor plan is wide open, it emanates an intimate vibe. “After many years of living in Europe, a large home didn’t seem

48

like a necessity,” Heydt explains. “Considering the space is only 700 square feet, the key goal was to keep the layout open and only add walls where it was absolutely necessar y while keeping functionality, balance, proportion, and scale in mind.”

Inspired by her years abroad, Heydt wanted to incorporate the crisp white stucco look seen in the homes of southern Italy. “ We had to be strategic with the layout and maximize the use of space, so we built shelving into the walls to add storage, and in doing so we were

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Find more inspiring spaces in Shades of White: Serene Spaces for Effortless Living by Fifi O’Neill, photography by Mark Lohman, CICO Books.

Available October 12.

able to achieve the Mediterranean feel we were after,” she says. Her creativity comes through in her European minimalist yet cozy approach, the neutral backdrop, and by relying on natural materials like wood and leather to add texture and warmth. “I love mixing modern clean lines with vintage or worldly items,” says Heydt. “ The marriage between the two aesthetics brings out an authenticity that is both elegant and unique.”

The idea of living in a tiny home can be intimidating , but when everything you own ser ves a purpose and is used on a daily basis, and when it means you display only meaningful pieces, the tradeoff is worth it. “Designing a tiny home requires thoughtful solutions in order to fit all the utilities that a modern home demands,” Heydt concludes. “Yet there is nothing we lack that a 2,500-square-foot home has – maybe just fewer rooms to vacuum!”

Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Left: High above the main living areas, the couple set up two small rooms where they can pursue work and hobbies. White walls bounce the light harnessed by several skylights.

Wood beams add definition and warmth.

49

DECORATE

Rethinking Space A clever couple constructs the city home of their dreams in Providence

By Elyse Major

An unusual lot and zoning laws inspired building up and a reverse living plan

Photography by Christian Scully of Design Imaging Studios courtesy of David Sisson Architecture

B

rian DeChambeau and Natasha Astrid Rosario DeChambeau enjoy an urban lifestyle: donning a scarf and walking everywhere, using public transportation, shopping small at momand-pop shops and bodegas. Brian was living in Boston when he decided to move to a more manageable city – Providence – where the couple met. Neither owns a car by choice, which necessitated finding a place near Providence Station for quick access to the train.

When seeking a home, the couple preferred to own, not rent, and Brian found himself drawn to an unusually shaped lot in the Smith Hill area. At just 1,800 square feet, zoning laws dictated that only a small portion could actually be built up, so after initial consultation with Boston architect Jeff Geisinger, Brian enlisted David Sisson Architecture in East Providence.

David Sisson worked closely with Brian and Natasha to realize their vision, orienting the house away from the street and implementing

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

a reverse living plan where main rooms are not ground-level and windows offer privacy and views of treetops rather than the street.

“This is a perfect example of architects and homeowners joining forces to reinvent the big city lifestyle for the smaller city by focusing on unbuildable urban lots, working with energ yefficient technologies, and designing for access to public transportation and bike paths,” says Sisson. “In Providence, Natasha and Brian have what their friends from New York and Boston can only dream about.”

“People don’t see Smith Hill as a desirable neighborhood, but we see it as a regular neighborhood with ups and downs,” says Natasha. Due to the small footprint, she was initially concerned that the house would feel dark and constricted, but because of the high ceilings and tall windows, spaces are flooded with natural light, an element especially helpful with so much of daily life still being based at home. Adding to the privacy along a busy

HeyRhody.com

street is the fact that most passersby don’t even realize the tall contemporary is a single family home, mistaking it for an office building. “I was outside with a friend when we overheard someone walking by who asked ‘what is that supposed to be?’” says Brian. “People may not recognize it as a house because the windows don’t have muntins”, which are the bars or sashes typically separating each pane of glass.

To maintain the couple’s shared minimalist aesthetic while playing to the home’s geometric lines, Brian constructed open shelving in the kitchen; he also made use of vertical space by hanging the television high up on the wall in the living room. A large square starburst quilt made by Brian’s mom is displayed in the stair hall, not only adding texture but also drawing the eye up to emphasize the height.

According to Natasha, the house has brought home for her how much your environment can affect how you feel and your level of productivity.

“I really like how serene it is,” she says.

51

DECORATE

Wood and textiles add warmth to the streamline bedroom

Get Rhody Style B r i a n a n d N a t a s h a D e C h a m b e a u e n j oy l i v i n g a c i ty l i fe i n t h e S m i t h H i l l n e i g h b o r h o o d . N ext t i m e yo u ’ re o n Ro u te 4 4 , t a ke a d e to u r a n d ex p l o re w i t h t h e s e s u g g e s t i o n s f ro m t h e co u p l e .

Wa l k S m i t h In addition to Providence Community Library, find a rec center, bodegas, places to eat, and more; there’s even a nearby meadow perfect for birdwatching (Brian has spotted finches and a hawk).

Dig In In the empty lot across from his house, Brian has planted trees. He’s also made roots in the community, helping the nearby Lithuanian American Social Club by working with them to build basketball hoops and help preserve club history.

Lo c a l F i r s t The couple cites Farm Fresh RI and The Industrious Spirit Co. as local faves, along with David Sisson Architecture, Buz Gardiner, Gardiner Construction.

Photography by Christian Scully of Design Imaging Studios courtesy of David Sisson Architecture

Open shelving was constructed using steel from a builder’s supply shop

Discover a school as unique as your child

the

TWIN OAKS CLASSICS NEW AND CLASSIC MENU ITEMS DAILY AND WEEKLY SPECIALS

Wolf School

Private K-8 Special Education School 401-432-9940 • thewolfschool.org Join us on October 24th for our Fall Open House!

Celebrating 85 years | Family Owned and Operated 100 SABRA STREET, CRANSTON • 781-9693 • TWINOAKSREST.COM

We’re excited to announce a name change for our airport!

Visit pvdairport.com to book your next flight and follow us on social media @iflyrhodeisland.

50 ANN MARY ST PAWTUCKET, RI 02860

401-362-9547

863 NEWPORT AVE PAWTUCKET, RI 02861

401-316-7226

GRAND OPENING WEEKEND

OCT 22-25TH thebucketnutrition

ths401 Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

ths_401

53

DECORATE

Curb Appeal Practical advice for thinking outside the house

By Carli Alves

Carli Alves is this month’s Influencer! Read more on page 56.

Fiber cement siding in aged pewter

T Photography by James Hardie

hroughout the pandemic, backyards turned into wedding venues, sports arenas, campsites, and more. They became important extensions of our indoor living spaces and more than ever, homeowners are putting dollars toward transforming their backyards and front porches into personal outdoor oases. Here are some unique ways to get inventive with your outdoor spaces.

GO AL FRESCO An al fresco kitchen is a great way to gussy up your backyard. Especially if you like to host a lot of outdoor parties, bring your kitchen outside and create a workspace in the fresh air so you can still mingle with guests while preparing meals. Before you undergo your renovation, it’s important to recognize that modular kitchens and pre-assembled models may be relatively easy to install, but they still require careful planning and knowledge of local building codes. A landscape

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

designer can help you assess your backyard’s needs, and a contractor can help you plan for any impact to your home’s exterior. When it comes to choosing a countertop surface and other installments, be sure you’re picking materials that will hold up to the northeast’s changing seasons and severe weather.

EXPLORE NEW SHAPES Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, literally, when it comes to your flower beds and berms. When installing a new garden, uniquely shaped boxes make a striking impact on your backyard for a small investment of time and money. Growing up, my mom was always in the garden, and I feel so lucky she passed that love of gardening onto me. Not only does gardening beautify your home and increase curb appeal, but it can become a favorite pastime. When envisioning your dream outdoor space, take the time to explore your yard and learn what grows best and when, and determine if new landscaping should be added.

HeyRhody.com

THINK IN TERMS OF ZONES When renovating an outdoor space, think in terms of zones or outdoor rooms, if space allows. This can include an area for lounging and dining, a cozy nook or courtyard, as well as a place to gather around a fire or chiminea. Don’t forget to look for areas with hidden potential where you can carve out space for entertaining. In my home, for example, we have an area off the breezeway, between the garage and house, that creates the perfect little nook for a courtyard. After a lot of raking and weed clearing, we were able to hang some string lights, add a table and chair set along with an umbrella to transform it into a charming, livable space.

REFRESH AND REDO THE EXTERIOR Siding technology has come a long way. You don’t have to compromise the natural look of cedar shingles to get the strength of fiber cement (consider Hardie® Shingle

by James Hardie). Vertical siding now comes in a wide array of color and pattern options for farmhouse or modern styles. Learn more at JamesHardie.com

55

DECORATE

Named one of “102 Black Designers, Crafters, Makers, and More to Follow on Instagram Now” by Country Living , the rising decor star from West Warwick shares practical tips on renos, rugs, and resales

By S ascha Martin

You have shared many projects from your circa 1945-home renovation. What is your biggest tip for someone thinking about renovating an older home?

When renovating an older home, people are often driven to create these drastic before and afters, like tearing down walls and changing up floor plans. One of the most important steps to take is to truly assess. Take inventory of the major issues, such as structural or electrical problems, plumbing issues, or situations that might be hazardous to your health or safety. Once you tend to those issues, I suggest living in the home for a while, and getting yourself acquainted with it; get a feel for how you and your family function in it as-is. By doing this, I think you can get a really good feel for what works for you and what doesn’t, making your renovation decisions far more informed, rather than making major or costly changes that you may later regret.

Do you have a favorite decor trend?

I’m not usually one to hop on trends, but I do love how decor has shifted from stark whites and cool grays to warm neutrals, earth tones, and natural textures. I think since quarantine, we’ve all leaned towards comfort and durability in our decor, so this trend helps the home feel more cozy and inviting.

What’s the biggest improvement you can make in a space on a budget?

I think most people would say paint, and while it’s true – I despise painting! One of the easiest and most impactful ways to improve a space is to change out your area rug. Have fun with different patterns or textures to give your space a completely different feel. And then you can pull colors from your rug to coordinate throw pillows and other textiles like curtains and throw blankets to create a beautifully cohesive home.

Do you have a fave DIY project from your own home?

It would have to be the DIY console sink I built for our powder room. I was inspired by a sink from Restoration Hardware which was a little out of my budget, and came up with a design using wooden stair balusters for the legs. I love how I was able to create a custom piece that looks high-end on a budget.

Where are some of your favorite small Rhode Island businesses to go shopping for home decor?

I love thrifting, so when I’m not yardsaling or hitting up the flea markets, you can find me at a Habitat ReStore, Mike’s Estate Services in West Warwick, or Salvation Army in Woonsocket.

What advice do you have for someone who wants to get more involved with DIY projects?

There’s so much inspiration and tutorials available at our fingertips nowadays. My biggest advice is to just start somewhere and don’t be afraid to fail. I’ve done tons of DIY projects, and even I get intimidated sometimes, but I think it all has to do with just starting. Follow along at @madebycarli on Instagram.

Photography by Rusty Williams Photo, courtesy of Carli Alves

Meet Carli Alves

YOUR PARTNER FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION • 463-7674 • MHI-RI.COM

Salt Marsh Realty Group Buy - Sell - Lease - Develop

Exclusive Bay Point Area Swansea, MA List Price: $1,900,000 — CONTACT — Chris Howard | 508-801-7485 chrisjhoward@hotmail.com Waterfront Contemporary situated on a private road offers Mid Century flair w/panoramic southerly & westerly views of Mt. Hope Bay & the Coles River. This one of a kind, two acre site is situated high on a bluff and has over 300’ of water frontage. The architecturally designed home offers a unique floor plan including a fireplaced Living Room w/vaulted ceilings open to the Dining Room w/wet bar. There is a large eat in kitchen, a fireplaced great room and a library/office. The Master bedroom w/an en suite bath, 4 additional bedrooms, 3 full and 2 half baths complete the interior living space. The outside patio has a built in fireplace/barbecue which will be the focal point of summer entertainment having access from the kitchen, living & dining rooms. The three car garage has ample space for your vehicles and watercraft. A Marina & an optional beach/tennis club are a short walk away. This property is waiting for a new owner to restore it to its former glory.

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

57

D IN E IN | TAKE OUT AL FRESCO DINING PRIV A TE EVENTS

3 0 0 0 C H A P E L V I E W B LV D • C R A N S T O N , R I • 4 0 1 . 9 4 4 . 4 9 0 0 • C H A P E LG R I L L E R I . C O M

Chapel

A Better Way to Repay Student Loans

Refinance, simplify and save with RISLA to make student loan payments more manageable.

Visit us at risla.com/refi to learn more and apply.

58

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

ENTERTAIN R hod y Rec ip e | Ch eese Tou r | In th e K itc h en | P i cni c E xpe ri e nce

66 The Perisien Lunch from Stoneacre Picnics Photo by Gina Mastrostefano

ENTERTAIN

Orzo Soup For the Soul S t i r i n l o c a l l y s o u rce d i n g re d i e nt s fo r t h i s w h o l e s o m e l a rg e - b atc h re c i p e

By Liz M u r ray

Photo by Liz Murray

W

hether you’re looking for an easy mealprepped lunch or warm pick-me-up for a chilly fall day, this hearty tomato orzo soup is the definition of cozy. Chicken breast brings the protein, onions and carrots contribute to a wholesome tomato soup base, and nutrient-dense kale gets tossed in at the end for a boost of antioxidants. This nourishing soup can be made in a large batch to be enjoyed over and over again.

The ingredients aren’t difficult to come by, either, and a morning in South Kingstown can easily check off each item on your list. I recommend South Coast Organics & Bulk Foods to stock up on orzo, spices, and other pantr y staples in custom amounts and low-waste packaging ( pro-tip: for no waste, bring your own containers!). Just around the corner, swing by South County Bread Company for a warm, crisp baguette or multigrain loaf for dipping. For fresh kale, carrots, and onions, tr y the South Kingstown Farmers Market on Saturdays or The Farmers Daughter or most any farmstand around the state.

To m ato O rzo S o u p ING RE DIE NTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1.5 cups dried orzo 2 15 oz cans of diced tomatoes 10 cups chicken broth 2 large carrots, peeled and diced 1 large onion, peeled and diced 1/2 cup diced mushrooms 2 Tbsp tomato paste 1 tsp dried thyme 1/4 tsp table salt Fresh cracked pepper to taste 2 cups fresh kale, stems removed and chopped 1 Tbsp olive oil or coconut oil 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast Optional bag uette or bread of choice

STE PS 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Start by making the orzo according to the package.

Cook to slightly al-dente, then drain and set aside.

3. While the orzo is cooking , heat the oil in a large dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breast to the pot and sear for 5 minutes on each side until beginning to brown. Place the chicken breast on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet and finish in the oven until the chicken registers 165°F. 4. While the chicken is in the oven, toss the diced onion, mushroom, and carrot into the pot and saute until beginning to soften, about 6 minutes.

5. Add the tomato paste and dried thyme and stir until ever ything is coated. Now pour in the diced tomatoes, and scrape up any brown bits off of the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon. Simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Add the chicken broth and bring the soup to a low simmer. Once the chicken is done cooking , dice it into cubes and add it to the soup, along with the cooked orzo.

7. Taste the soup and season with table salt and fresh cracked pepper. Add the chopped kale and continue to simmer for 5 minutes.

8. Ser ve with a side of bread for dipping and enjoy ! Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

For more tips and recipes, visit RecipeHippie.com or follow @recipehippie on Instagram.

ENTERTAIN

Cheese Please 9 l o c a l s h o p s for assembling the p e r fe ct fa l l ch arcuterie board

By Patty J

Find all the fixin’s for your next charcuterie board at The Cheese Wheel

M

aybe you’re having friends over on a Saturday night for a dinner party and charcuterie or relishing the final crisp evenings of fall with a brie wreath on the patio. Or you’re planning a cheese and wine tasting on the couch with your significant other. Either way, the grate news is that you’ll find a plethora of terrific spots for cheese shopping around Rhode Island.

The Cheese Corner Fromage fans in South County cannot say enough gouda things about The Cheese Corner!

They have an extensive menu of cheeses from all over the world and a staff that will walk you through ever ything – and provide samples. They also create custom boards and gift baskets, and even offer wine pairing suggestions from Dick’s World of Wine next door.

Westerly, TheCheeseCorner.com

The Cheese Wheel Village Market Along with a vast selection of cheese (and samples), you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find freshly baked loaves of bread, local eggs, and lots of Rhody food brands you already know and trust. Regulars gush about the helpful staff and how spot-on their cheese recommendations are. Tiverton, TheCheeseWheelRI.com

FoodLove Market’s selection includes artisinal cheeses

Photos courtesy of (L) The Cheese Wheel and (R) FoodLove Market

Edgewood Cheese Shop & Eatery Before charcuterie boards were trending on Instagram, Edgewood Cheese Shop was winning over customers with their variety ( plus crackers, spreads, and utensils) and their famous Cheese 101 classes where you can learn how it’s made and more fun facts. People rave about their customizable boards and also sandwiches, including a gourmet grilled cheese. Cranston, EdgewoodCheeseShop.com

FoodLove Market Newport Restaurant Group opened a fab boutique market in Middletown and it does indeed feature a curated selection of some of the best artisanal cheeses around. You’ll also find other tasty options to include on your next board or holiday platter, such as olives, dried fruit, and jams. What could be better ?

Middletown, FoodLoveMarket.com

Graze o n M a i n DIY charcuterie boards are fun, but for an expert-assembled board of cheeses and meats, Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

Graze on Main has got you covered. From brie wreaths and date night boards to individual charcuterie cones, pre-order a spread to bring home or to munch on in their outdoor courtyard with friends. East Greenwich, GrazeOnMainEG.com

Milk & Ho n ey This adorable artisanal cheese shop is well known for having over 100 different cheeses on hand at all times, and sampling is welcome.

Customers love that Milk & Honey brings in new cheeses and other specialty foods and addons (such as olives, oils, crackers, and jellies) every single week. It’s a must for turophiles (or cheese lovers) in Lil Rhody. Portsmouth, MilkAndHoneyRI.com

New po r t Wi n e Cel l ar an d Go u r m et Not to be outdone, the City by the Sea has a one-stop shop for your next cheese and wine night that has a devoted following. Along with a fantastic array of wines and other enchanting sips, Newport Wine Cellar and

HeyRhody.com

Gourmet also features all kinds of cheeses, from mild to daringly sharp and ever ything in between. NewportWineCellar.com

P l ant C i ty M ar ket This Providence food hall is a destination for all kinds of plant-based dining and does not disappoint when it comes to non-dairy or vegan cheeses. And you can shop their many market options (I counted no less than six different brands of soft, hard, shredded, spreadable, and wedge) in person, online, by phone, or via their new app. Providence, PlantCityPVD.com

To ny Co l o n i a l ’ s If you’re looking to channel Italian flavors into your spread, tr y a visit to Tony Colo nial’s for some cheese – and authentic Italian food – shopping. Fans and newbies alike love the charming old world feel and the seemingly endless options for cheeses, meats, olives, and prepared foods. Delizioso! Providence, TonysColonial.com

63

100% attention to each and every aspect of the project from conception-to-completion

401-451-8922 kepinteriordesigns.com

Come Visit Our Showroom… 10,000 Sq. Ft. Of Beautiful Flooring!

For Style & Comfort Every Season 25 Esten Avenue, Pawtucket 401-726-3000 • FactoryCarpetOutlet.com Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am-5pm

64

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

ENTERTAIN

Pasta Possible

Hope & Main chef channels passed-down Italian traditions into a l le rge n-fre e fettuccine B y Ab b i e L ah m er s

Photos courtesy of Jamie Freda

L

ike all great pasta stories, chef Jamie Freda’s begins in Italy. “Summers were spent in Puglia, cooking alongside my Nonna Domenica who survived the Great Depression and lived until she was 102 years old,” Freda recalls. “Back then, everything was made from scratch using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Nothing was ever wasted and there was always a song or story to go along with her recipes.”

Studying at the Italian Culinary Academy was the natural next step for Freda, where she would knead her new knowledge into preserving Nonna’s tried-and-true methodologies. “It wasn’t long before I developed an unwavering passion for pasta, and began to channel everything she taught me into my dough,” says Freda.

Now, Project Pasta is the culmination of those efforts. Beet-red and earthy green nests of fresh fettuccine come in compostable plastic packaging for at-home cooking. The pasta is al dente in under a minute, hand-crafted using traditional techniques, and most surprising – completely gluten-free and vegan.

“What I quickly realized is not only the strikingly large number of people who can’t enjoy traditional Italian pasta due to gluten intolerances, but that there’s also people with very specific food allergies that make eating any pasta nearly impossible,” says Freda, who

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

started working out of the Hope & Main incubator kitchen in Warren to create a pasta that’s both palatable and accessible – a labor of love that took time and patience.

“Since texture, quality, and authenticity are extremely important to us, we are always striving to perfect our recipes and processes,” Freda explains. “In the beginning, I had no idea where to start. There were many unsuccessful batches, but we just kept iterating, and researching different ingredients.” Konjac root, cassava flour, and flaxseed make up some of the alternatives to wheat flour used in Project Pasta’s staple fettuccine, while spinach, beet, or carrot powder add nutrients and color.

With the help of Prica Farina’s pasta expert, David Strenio, and food scientist Caitlin Jamison to develop pasta prototypes and processes, now the project is growing. Exclusively sold in RI, you can find them popping up at the Hope & Main market, Coastal Growers Market at Casey Farm, and Mount Hope Farmers Market this month, and now a new website also allows for custom online pickup orders to meet growing demand. “Sustainability is the foundation of scalability, and also a means to further preserving our traditions,” says Freda. “We want to increase access to traditional Italian pasta without compromising anything about it.”

CheFreda.com

HeyRhody.com

Chef Jamie Freda shares tips for incorporating Project Pasta into your home cooking to whip up both simple and decadent fall dinners.

KEEP IT SIMPLE While Freda’s three flavors of fettuccine blend seamlessly in a variety of dishes, for a quick meal, “I really enjoy sauteing veggies with olive oil, herbs, salt and pepper. Simple and delicious.”

FALL FLAVORS Freda’s go-to pasta dishes for fall are fettuccine with mushroom ragu or tortellini al brodo, a colder weather dish popular in Bologna. “Traditionally, the tortellini are made with ground pork and cheese. I like to make mine using cashew cheese and miso and serve it with a vegetable broth of fennel, onion, garlic carrot, whole-peeled tomatoes, celery leaves and stems, peppercorn, and salt.”

FAMILY AFFAIR “Pasta is one of the most versatile foods which leaves lots of room to get creative,” says Freda.

“Get inspired by seasonal produce and even make your own for a fun family activity!”

65

ENTERTAIN

Picnic and Polo

Feeling fancy enjoying an upscale al fresco to-go experience with Newport’s Stoneacre Picnics

By Chuck Staton

I

t’s not every day you get invited to a luxury picnic experience – or a polo match. Being new to both, and with attempts to look presentable underway, my drive to Newport Polo was filled with questions: Are my socks the right length for my “fanciest” shoes ($14.99 on clearance at TJ Maxx)? And what is polo? Is it…horse-croquet?

Stoneacre Picnics, who hosted this upscale experience, is a concept from the same team who found success with Stoneacre Brasserie, Stoneacre Garden, and Stoneacre Wine & Spirits. This latest project curates picturesque picnics for custom events all over Newport and Aquidneck Island, including local beaches, the Newport Mansions, and many public parks. They even offer a graband-go option, so you can bring your fancy al fresco set up wherever you please.

Walking up to Newport Polo already

feels a little bit like crossing the living room while my mom is watching Downton Abbey: the British announcer, the flowery dresses, the horses. But today an upscale, scenic picnic set-up is added to the mix, complete with pillow seats, perfectly plated dishes, and an Instagram-chic aesthetic. I truly feel like an impostor on this gorgeous not-too-sunny summer afternoon.

The Stoneacre Picnics arrangements are lavish and striking. We’re seated at one of several beige mini picnic tables, on varied pastel pillows. Transparent blue cloth is draped over each table, with wicker placemats, floral arrangements, bronze cups, and wine buckets galore. Among these elaborate accoutrements is the main event – the food.

The two menus Stoneacre offers paired well with the decor and were perfect for a New England late-summer afternoon outside. The fitting Polo Picnic menu featured

CUISINE: Upscale, luxury picnic fare PRICES: $325 for two guests ATMOSPHERE: Lavish, relaxed, outdoorsy luncheon

A Stoneacre Picnics experience at Newport Polo

66

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

COMING SOON!

Must-Try Items Ham and Gruyere Sandwich Caramelized onions and black garlic mustard

AVAILABLE ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST APP!

Photos by Gina Mastrostefano

Ratatouille Tartine Grilled squash, tomato confit, and basil aioli

A deep dive into the Ocean State. Taking a granular look into the people, places and everything in between that inspire such big love for the smallest state!

La Brujula canned tuna in olive oil, marinated olives, spiced nuts, and a delicious baguette with housemade apricot and blueberry jams. It’s accompanied by cheese and charcuterie selections including Nettle Meadow Farms Kunik (a rich triple crème cheese), Jasper Hill Farm Bayley Hazen Blue, and Olympia Provisions’ Chorizo Rioja and Saucisson Sec salami, all washed down with Fever-Tree sodas and followed by decadent fall-apart brownies.

The second menu was the Parisien Lunch. This came with a crudite; a surprisingly tasty kale salad with miso Caesar dressing, marinated mushrooms, and parmesan cheese; a ham and gruyere baguette sandwich; and a ratatouille tartine (roasted eggplant avocado toast with grilled squash, tomato confit, and basil aioli) – also served with that killer brownie!

Champagne, beet tahini, a thick and satisfying tzatziki, and 5 Spoke Creamery’s Tumbleweed and Redmond cheeses all made copious appearances throughout the picnic as well.

As much as I enjoy pretending to understand polo, I much prefer eating two meals. On this breezy afternoon, my focus was very much on the food, which is perfect for grazing while hanging : varied, light, upscale, and impeccably prepared.

Of course I am grateful to Stoneacre Picnics and Newport Polo for hosting this event – but most of all, a huge thanks goes out to the person who was seated next to me and didn’t show up.

Your meal was thoroughly enjoyed and I can assure you, your brownie went to a loving home.

elGiudice Hosted by N ick D & Sascha Martin

Stoneacre Picnics 190 Wayland Avenue Providence, RI

Newport | 401-619-7810 StoneAcrePicnics.com Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

67

ORGANIZE YOUR LIFE CUSTOM CLOSET GEEKS HAS THE SOLUTION & IT WORKS!

Ask Us About Volume Discounting

CUSTOM CLOSET GEEKS Custom Closets Without The Custom Price FREE IN HOME CONSULTATION • INSTALLATION INCLUDED

PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (508) 858-5282 www.CustomClosetGeeks.com • salescustomclosetgeeks@gmail •

customclosetgeeks

Showrooms Available: 685 Orchard Street, New Bedford, Ma | 74 Nooseneck Road, West Greenwich, RI *appointment only

INSPIRATION A rc h i te c t u re | T h i s O l d V i c to r i a n | Co l o r Tre n d s | C a l e n d a r

74 The Seaside Victorian is Rhody’s newest reality (or realty) star Photography by Nat Rea for This Old House

INSPIRATION

Architectural Interest It’s all in the d et a i l s fo r a Providence p h o to g ra p h e r docu m e nt i n g h e r obsession fo r o l d h o u s e s acro s s t he st ate

By Elyse Major

CARPENTER GOTHIC, PROVIDENCE Of course this is one of my favorite houses in Providence. New woodworking technolog y at the end of the 19th centur y allowed craftspeople to build ever more elaborate exterior decoration, leading to this frothy confection of a house. The Dirt Palace has done an extraordinar y job of bringing this beauty back to life.

J

Photography by Julia Barber

ulia Barber grew up in an old house – you know the kind – with an ongoing list of DIY repairs and marks on the wood trim from previous inhabitants.

Reflecting , she says that with all its “nooks and crannies”, her childhood home felt like a time capsule just for her to explore. Today she makes her home in a little triangle-shaped garret in the Mount Hope section of Providence. An art and architecture historian, self-proclaimed consummate nerd, and photographer who still loves scouting old houses, she earned her PhD in the history of photography from Brown University in 2018, and says that ever since she’s been brainstorming ways to make that education accessible to a wider audience.

“So much of our cultural history – good and

bad – is built into these structures, including systemic racism, class divides, and xenophobia, so for me, it’s not just about the beauty of the houses I find. In many ways, architecture is a useful lens to learn more about our history on a very personal level,” says Barber.

While at Brown, Barber explains that she craved a creative outlet outside of academics and began taking long walks around the city to clear her head. “I began to notice door knobs and knockers and then broadened my focus to the many other details that tell the story of a house.” She created an Instagram account and named it Sea of Steps after a 1903 photograph

by Frederick H. Evans of a stone staircase in England. “Other people seemed to appreciate my photographs and before long I was hooked

on searching for and sharing the beauty around me.” At last count, “other people” numbered close to 16,000 followers: an engaged group that enjoys regular posts like #MansardMonday and #TriangleTuesday along with near-daily uploads of colorful properties captioned with historical tidbits, information about features like gables and turrets, and her own musings.

Favorite haunts for spotting architecture include Broadway, Atwells, and the Elmwood neighborhoods in Providence; the North End Historic District in Woonsocket; and the stretch of 114 running through Warren and Bristol; along with Fall River and New Bedford in nearby Massachusetts which Barber describes as being “saturated with jaw-dropping old homes.” When she’s not traversing Southern New England,

S E CO N D E M P I R E , P R O V I D E N C E

LIGHTNING SPLITTER, PROVIDENCE

This beauty has a perfect paint job highlighting its ornate wooden decoration, and I’m obsessed with that roof cresting.

Lightning splitters became popular in Rhode Island in the mid-1800s. They were believed to deflect the streng th of lightning strikes!

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

71

F O L K V I C TO R I A N , S C I T U AT E

O C TA G O N H O U S E , R I C H M O N D

This is another house I’ve been in love with for years! Look at that ridiculous porch woodwork. There is absolutely no reason for it to be there except for a little extra beauty – and what a wonderful reason to put it there!

Octagonal houses became a fad in the 1850s, when they were widely advertised as lighter, cooler, and more spacious inside than traditional square homes. An older folk belief held that the devil would find no corners in which to hide in an octagonal house.

S E CO N D E M P I R E , B A R R I N G TO N

STICK STYLE, WANSKUCK

The frothy white gingerbread around the interruption in the mansard roof is such a tasteful way of drawing attention to this unique feature of the house.

I love a house with a bold color scheme. Here, the dark blue-purple accent color makes the dragon at the top of the main gable pop!

Barber’s Tips for Landmark Style “ Yo u a b s o l u t e l y c a n ’ t g o w r o n g w i t h a n anchor-shaped door knocker in Rhode Island. For the more daring, there are knockers shaped like octopi, horseshoe crabs, and of course, Cthulhu. IMHO, the b e s t w a y t o g i ve yo u r h o m e a R h o d e I s l a n d sense of place is to direct visitors there using only businesses that have been c l o s e d f o r 2 0 + ye a r s a s l a n d m a r k s .”

72

Barber is busy at work writing a guide to old homes titled How to Read a House. “The historian in me loves a perfectly preserved old house; the realist in me appreciates that old houses have to live in the present. These buildings are often prohibitively expensive to maintain to historic standards, and I’d always rather see a house lived in and loved than standing empty. At a time when our country is facing an unprecedented housing crisis, it is imperative that we invest in adaptive reuse strategies that allow old houses to

serve the needs of today’s communities.”

Structural issues aside, when it comes to aesthetics, Barber loves “an outrageous Queen Anne house: towers, decorative woodwork, stained glass, and a paint color scheme that shows off all the intricate details.” She is also drawn to houses mid-renovation where passersby can witness a homeowner thoughtfully restoring the structure one part at a time. “Bonus points if it looks obviously haunted,” she says with a smile. @seaofsteps

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

Photography by Julia Barber

INSPIRATION

YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE

Putting paradise on your travel map!

for Scratch & Dent Major Appliances

OFFERING PEACE OF MIND • EXPERT ADVICE & EXCLUSIVE OFFERS • VACATIONS • MINI ESCAPES • HONEYMOONS • AND MORE...

SAVE UP TO

30-60% OFF OF RETAIL PRICING!

LARGE SHOWROOM WITH OVER 400 APPLIANCES!

20 Veterans Memorial Drive Warwick | 401-732-8080 globalexcellencetravel.com

299 Walcott Street, Pawtucket • (401) 723-0500 • KitchenGuys.com MON-WEDS 9AM-5PM • THURS 9AM-7PM • FRI 9AM-5PM • SAT 9AM-3PM

ALL OF YOUR

Holiday Needs

IN ONE CONVENIENT LOCATION Applebee’s • Blue Cross Blue Shield California Closets • Citizens Bank Enterprise Rent-A-Car • Five Below Five Guys Burgers & Fries • GameStop Hi Nails • Mattress Firm • Miracle Ear Moe’s Southwest Grill • New Asia House Oak Street Health • Petco • Sally Beauty Super Stop & Shop • Super Stop & Shop Fuel U.S. Armed Forces Career Center

300 QUAKER LANE, WARWICK Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

73

INSPIRATION

Long Live the Queen Victorian Swe e n o r B u i l d e rs h e a d s a l o n g l i st o f lo c a l t a l e nt t h at we nt i nto ref urb is hing This Old House

By E lyse Major

Many of the home’s original stained-glass windows were restored

I

saw the house for sale and knew it would be a great This Old House project but there was no owner at the time,” recalls Jeff Sweenor, president and CEO of Sweenor Builders in Wakefield. Sweenor called the listing agent to discuss the Folk Victorian he spotted, located in Narragansett’s historic district. A true diamond in the rough, the home, thenknown as the Daniel A. Caswell House, had a deteriorating porch and rotting roof but also boasted prized features like a sunburst detail at the front of the house, “rising sun” patterned clapboards, and an original decorative stained glass window, among other details prized by admirers of old architecture. “ When they procured a buyer, I reached out

74

to This Old House. They came to take a peek and knew it was a great fit for the show.”

For those just tuning in, 20 years before there was HGT V, there was This Old House. The PBS show truly launched a new television genre and four decades later continues to garner high ratings and empower home remodelers both pro and DIY. Sweenor explains that four years ago Tom Silva, a general contractor for the show, visited a Sweenor site for a brief tr yout. “ We built a custom cur ved deck with him. They filmed the segment and about a week later I got a call from the CEO. They said they’d like to incorporate Sweenor Builders!”

Known today as the Seaside Victorian, Sweenor relays that the first thing his crew did

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

Photography by Nat Rea for This Old House

“

HeyRhody.com

The original front door lends authentic appeal to the new front entry and stairway

INSPIRATION

Photography by Nat Rea for This Old House

A former three-season porch is transformed into a year-round family room

76

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

VOL.

26

IDEA S FOR OUTD OOR LIVIN G

NO.

2

SUMMER

IDEAS FOR OUTDO OR LIVING

BACKYARD PAT 2021 IOS / DIY HER B PLANTER / OUTDOOR SHOWER S / IDEA HOU SE PREVIEW

• BUILD AN ADIRONDACK CHAIR • ALL

Skillful restorati on brings a Queen Anne’ s details back to life

ABOUT MULTI

And adding on builds in modern comfort and convenience.

See page 24 for the full reveal!

-PANEL DOORS • TIERED PLANT ER PROJECT THISOL DHOUS

As Seen in

E.COM • SUMM ER 2021

the Summer 2021 issue!

0221 Summe

r Cover.indd

TOH PROJECT #79 The Seaside Victorian Cottage Narraganse tt, Rhode Islan d

1

“was go around and document every little detail with photos, videos, sketches, and notes” of the house built between 1887 and 1890.

The intent of these records is for reference, to keep the original home’s integrity on file and cite elements large and small, such as front gable rake, siding and trim detail, bay window bracket detail, and door roof overhang and bracket detail. “The list goes on, and we did actually bring certain items back to the shop to either repair or replicate exactly, but the documentation process allows us to look back at every little detail to ensure the home keeps its historic architectural detail.”

Along with mindful restoration projects, the property was treated to new construction, including a garage with master suite above, with the middle of the home joined by a mudroom, bathroom, and hallway. The wraparound front porch was completely rebuilt and VaproShield, a barrier to the salty air, was installed to the framework; fresh cedar shingles, now painted in two contrasting shades of blue, cover the exterior. A new shed complements the Victorian architecture, the driveway was refreshed with cobblestone work, and there is an outdoor kitchen with a fireplace.

“We strive to incorporate the previous layout and exterior details whenever possible.

In this case, we were aware there was a fair amount of rot, deterioration, and structural damage, but did what we could to preserve and restore everything possible,” says Sweenor. “It’s an honor to be able to showcase our company’s craftsmanship on national television for an iconic piece of Narragansett history.”

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

77

INSPIRATION

Custom Island in Sea Glass Green Photography by Nat Rea, styling by KEP Interiors

Color Splash 78

P r ov i d e n c e d e s i g n e r o f f e r s advice for adding drama to your kitchen with new trends

By Karen Greco

Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

A

fter the reign of the cool gray kitchen cabinet, this year’s trending colors take a dramatic turn. Kathy Royce, a designer with Red House Design Build in Providence, shares five tips on incorporating these daring new hues in the most important room in your home.

1. COORDINATE WITH ST YLE Think Black Truffle won’t work in your farmhouse kitchen? Consider cabinet style, Royce advises, not color. “Greens are ver y popular right now in ever y style of kitchen, for example. For a contemporar y home, a slab cabinet in

a spruce finish would look fabulous.

However, using the same spruce finish with a more traditional door style can look equally amazing in a colonial home.”

2. K EEP COMPETITION TO A MINIMUM A vivid cabinet becomes the focal point of the room, so Royce suggests more muted finishes for the rest of the space : “You don’t want them to compete.”

3. SIZE M ATTER S How much drama you bring depends on the size of the space. “Small kitchens can pull off a dark color on the base cabinets,” she says, noting that wall cabinets should remain light or paired with floating shelves. “Larger kitchens can afford to have dark all around.”

4. K EEP IT COZY Want to go bold but keep a cozy vibe ?

Incorporate real wood. “ This could be an island, a featured sink base that is slightly pulled for ward, or shelving.”

Example of using a pop of color strategically in a kitchen island – signature Cabinetry island in Navy Hale with perimeter cabinets in Colonial Simply White Photography by Aaron Usher III

5. START SM ALL Royce notes cabinets are a big expense, so choose carefully. “If you want to use a bold color but are not quite ready to take the plunge with an entire kitchen, tr y using the finish on an island or bathroom vanity. Small pops of color can be fun and less expensive.” Learn more at RedHouseCustomBuilding.com

Open shelving adds storage in a small kitchen; real wood lends warmth

Photos courtesy of Red House Custom Build

Photography by Aaron Usher III

INSPIRATION

Create your own floral centerpieces at Bloom Back Flowers for fall entertaining

The Must List

8 essential home events this season

October 3: Create your own hands of time at home decor showroom Blanc + Bleu’s Wall Clock Workshop using milk paints and vintage accessories.

Bristol, BlancAndBleuHome.com October 13: Brush up on your kitchen prowess with a Knife Skills Class with My Chef Lara at Stock Culinary Goods and slice and dice your way through safe and speedy vegetable prep. Providence, Chef Lara.com

October 15: Hammer & Stain hosts seasonal wood decor painting workshops on select dates throughout the month, but don’t miss Tarot Night,

80

October 20 and 27: Bloom Back Flowers provides the seasonal flowers, vase, live step -by-step instructions, and treats for Fall Flower Arranging and Pumpkin Flower Arranging workshops. Providence, BloomBackFlowers.com

with 15-minute readings during class.

Wickford, HammerAndStainWickford.com

October 15-17: The Ninigret Quilters’ Ruby Jubilee Quilt Show presents over 150 quilts on display at the Westerly Armory, and you can enter a raffle for a chance to win the spotlighted quilt.

Westerly, NinigretQuilters.blogspot.com November 5: The WaterFire Arts Center will host a showroom of handcrafted furniture, accessories, and art, including student work from RISD and beyond, at the annual Fine Furnishings Show. Providence, WaterFire.org

Photos courtesy of Bloom Back Flowers

October 1: DESIGN WEEK RI rounds out their celebration of creative talent with virtual and in-person workshops and events throughout the day.

DesignXRI.com

ide statew For a f events o listing online! s visit u m ody.co h R y He

November 13-14: Take your dream home ideas to the Providence Home Show and meet with builders, landscape architects, and more at this giant expo at the RI Convention Center. Providence, JenksProductions.com Hey Rhody HOME OCTOBER 2021 |

HeyRhody.com

RHODY SNAPSHOTS I m a g e s v i a I n s t a g ra m h i g h l i g h t t h e b e a u ty o f t h e O c e a n S t a t e

@andrewj_brooks

@ jayruzicka

@jenspags28

@lll_images

@lck.photographs

@onbenefit

@pattyjdotcom

@photobyshannon

@pvdpreservation

Use #HeyRhodyPhotos and you could be featured next!

Local Knowledge, Global Network SERVING ALL OF RHODE ISLAND

NEWPORT: Beautiful 13 Ac Compound Across From Newport Harbor – $7,750,000

NEWPORT: First Floor Unit at Bonniecrest on Newport Harbor – $1,675,000

NEWPORT: Wonderfully Eclectic Converted Carriage House – $1,374,000

NEWPORT: Fire Station No. 1 – $3,495,000

NEWPORT: Single Level Pied a Terre Near Beaches – $550,000

MIDDLETOWN: Spectacular Indian Avenue Waterfront – $6,995,000

NEWPORT: ‘John Carey Jr. Gardener’s Cottage’ – $795,000

JAMESTOWN: Waterfront Compound With Dock & Moorings – $6,250,000

NEWPORT: Stylish Condos on Historic Hill (4 Units) – From $1,295,000

NEWPORT: Charming Retreat at “The Chalet” – $695,000

NEWPORT: 401.849.3000 | TIVERTON: 401.816.4060 GustaveWhite.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated