Inspiring Spaces: Blithewold

There are some very special spaces that capture one’s heart. That is how I felt when we first visited Blithewold in Bristol, Rhode Island.

It is a magical home and on a 33 acre estate set on the Naragansset Bay. As you can imagine, the views are AMAZING.

A few weeks ago, I shared with you all about our feature in the July issue of Romantic Homes.

I mentioned in that post that I also wrote and photographed a travel piece on Bristol, RI.

Today I wanted to share a bit more about that article and share a some photos that didn’t make it into the issue, too.

If you’re visiting New England this summer (or anytime) you need to stop by for a visit to this stunning home. I’ve visited in spring and summer, and each of the times I’ve been there the flowers have been gorgeous. In the winter, the home is decked out for Christmas.

The current home was built in 1907, after a tragic fire burned down the first house. This rebuild was done in the English country manor style of stone and stucco. You guys all know I love that English style 😉

On this particular trip we brought our children, and a lovely picnic, and spent the whole day enjoying the home and grounds.

Isn’t the entry just stunning?!?

What I love about this home is that it’s so inviting. It isn’t as over-the-top and opulent as the mansions in Newport.

How pretty is this tile on the breakfast porch?

The delicate wall paper in one bedroom is so whimsical. I would love it in our home.

The bathroom makes my heart skip a beat. Look at the double sinks:

I love the floor tiles and all that brass, worn with time.

The master bedroom is stunning with a hand-painted coastal scene.

On the balcony is this sail coth swing:

I particularly love the texture of the walls, it reminds me of what Jersey Ice Cream Company does on interior walls. I remember it being so cool out there even though it was a pretty warm July day.

Also on the balcony was this sweet boat. I bet the children and grandchildren had years of fun with this:

The interior of the home is even more beautiful than my photos capture.

Walking the gardens and through the restored greenhouses was absolute heaven.

I couldn’t help but wish for a greenhouse like this while we were there. Can you imagine having one in your yard?

The family were avid gardeners and the grounds have over 2,000 species of trees and shrubs, both native and exotic varieties.

Our boys enjoyed seeing the giant sequoia, rumored to be the tallest tree of its kind, on the East Coast.

On this particular day, we enjoyed a picnic on the dock which overlooks this little private beach.

We’re hoping to get down there this summer for another visit. To help plan your visit, check out Blithewold’s website. They have a summer concert series on Wednesday nights. You should also check out my friend, Nancy’s, shop – The Sea Rose Cottage. I first discovered my love for painting furniture at Nancy’s beautiful shop.