A neutral seaside sanctuary in Narragansett, Rhode Island, blends the relaxed spirit of Southern California with the coastal charm of New England after a full-scale renovation by Cordtsen Design Architecture and Trevor Fulmer Design.
The home sits on the ocean, but the interior design emphasizes indoor-outdoor living. The renovation removed several interior walls and introduced expansive sliding doors that open directly to a patio. This design choice creates a fluid transition between the house and the tiered swimming pool, which features a spacious lounge area. A pass-through window in the kitchen connects the indoor cooking space to an outdoor kitchen, allowing the host to stay in conversation while managing meals.
A Unified Palette
Inside, a cream and neutral materials palette creates a sense of comfort and personality. The design team used custom furnishings, millwork, and a lighting plan to tie the rooms together. This approach ensures the home feels relaxed and refined without leaning too heavily into either aesthetic. The flooring and window treatments throughout the house stick to a calm, unified scheme that naturally directs the eye toward the ocean.
Owners gain a daily view of the water from the primary bathroom, where the shower and tub sit directly in front of unobstructed scenery. The dual vanity and stone-wrapped walls reinforce a sense of luxury, while a sculptural mirror in the powder room adds a focal point to the smaller space. Downstairs, the family room includes a cozy fireplace, providing a warm contrast to the cool coastal air.
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Practical Considerations
While the renovation focuses heavily on visual harmony, the changes also improve the functionality of the home. The removal of walls and the addition of large glass elements increase natural light and ventilation. The custom millwork provides built-in storage and organization, keeping the minimalist aesthetic free from clutter. Builders DiStefano Brothers Construction and Setting Architect Lombardi Design worked to ensure that the structural changes complement the surrounding environment.
For those living in coastal climates, the choice of materials is critical. The stone backsplash and stone-wrapped walls in the bathrooms are durable and resistant to salt air, which protects the home from the elements over time. The tiered pool design offers different depths, creating a safer environment for swimming while maintaining a visually interesting setting.
The tiered pool design offers different depths, creating a safer environment for swimming while maintaining a visually interesting setting.
