The New In Newport
This week we present to you a bold and unique Newport residence. It’s not your classic New England style home with shingle siding and coastal hues. It’s quite the contrary, actually. It is a dark concrete box that blends contemporary and industrial features both inside and out. But when you find out the history of this home, the architectural composition makes total sense. In 1968, the structure was built to serve as a commercial garage but then almost a half-century later was transformed into the ‘Hinckley House’ we see today. A third level was added, maximum use of every space was accomplished, and a contemporary version of Newport living was created. With classic New England homes there is always a sense of character and history attached but with this home it is the bold personality that shines through. We’ve selected the top 5 material choices that we believe really enhanced the modern character in this Newport home.
1. Glass Walls
The bathroom is probably our favorite space in this house. The use of glass blocks creates this pristine, clean aesthetic that is fitting to the function of the space. Using the glass element in this space really makes one doubt the concept of “less is more”. Here, more really is more! The curvilinear flow in the walls mimics the form of the shower and bath and with the abundance of glass on both the exterior wall and interior, natural light is able to filter through the space.
2. Pipe Railing
Commercial spaces are designed in a way to efficiently use every square foot of the building. The previous homeowner wanted the home to be “all about creative, efficient living” and the design really accentuates that vision. The minimalist design style is a great trick in making a space seem larger than is. The piped stair railing was also a very smart choice in the design, providing a fluid continuation from once space into another. As you look ahead while hanging out in the quaint living room loft, you don’t feel closed in but actually perceive it as one big space as the railing allows for a visual flow into the adjacent kitchen space.
3. Aluminum Accents
When you think of a commercial garage, aside from the cars, what do you imagine the interior space to look like? We picture lots of metals and tools and concrete flooring. The adaptively reused ‘Hinkley House’ is an ode to the history of the space. We love how they used the same materials one would use in a garage space but adapted it to fit a residential home. The diamond-plate aluminum accents in the kitchen, and the painted navy blue concrete flooring, add an exciting layer of textures and colors influenced by the structure’s roots. Being that this home is in Newport, the home altogether brings a fun and daring side to the neighborhood’s usual aesthetic. Even the choice in accessories have a unique edge to them. Just take a look at the James Dean art piece in the dining space…looks like a beautifully sketched portrait but as you start to look closely its actually a collection of human figures forming the silhouette of the American actor!
4. Wood Features
The transformed entertaining area is one big, fun room. Swings, ping pong tables, comfy couches, and even a large projection screen to host theatre-like movie nights. The space definitely retains the fully industrial vibe deriving from the previously functioning commercial garage. But one material element that really stood out amongst all the games and garage-like features is the natural wood contrasting the white backdrop. The aesthetic at the rear end of this entertaining space reflects that of a boat with its choice in materials and colors. Now, add a sliding bookcase ladder and a “treehouse” space above a sauna and you’ve got yourself a cozy corner you’ll never want to leave.
5. Glass Doors
Glass is always a good material choice when wanting to modernize a space. We mentioned it first when showcasing the bathroom design and now we will highlight it again in reference to the indoor-outdoor area. The bifold patio doors function in an accordion-style design offering a completely open and seamless transition from the main living area to the courtyard. Perpendicular to that is the large garage-style glass door which when rolled up can also connect the courtyard to the entertaining game room. All of this resulting in a unique indoor-outdoor experience perfect for Summertime living.
As is evident from the photos we’ve shared, this home is beautifully decorated and furnished. If we could add our touch to one space it would be the courtyard. The bluestone pavers and grey stucco siding create a neutral backdrop that we’d love to add a pop of color to. Through use of vibrant colors, patterns, and textures we would transform the courtyard into a fun and vibrant space perfect for family living and easy entertaining. These pieces are a few of our ideas.
If you'd like to learn more about this home please contact Kylie McCollough with Gustave White Sotheby's International Realty.
For any interior design and renovation services, please contact Ally Maloney.
Images credited to Gustave White | Sotheby’s International Realty.
