A Newport Autumn at Parterre
With our wonky weather this past month–snow on October 30th, an earthquake 8 days later–fall as we knew it last year has almost been nonexistent. So I was thrilled to… Read More
Author: Bettie Bearden Pardee
Inspiring Architectural Design: “Commodore” James’s Boathouse
Count on Newport, one of the yachting capitals of the world, to have a singular example of historic nautically-inspired architecture. A hundred plus years later, “Harbour Court” (now the New… Read More
Gardens of the North Shore of Chicago
For you garden lovers like me, I’m betting that a gorgeous, exceptional new book on our favorite topic is cause for celebration! Just published, Gardens of the North Shore of… Read More
Inspiring Architectural Design: Oakwood
Oakwood has led a charmed life. Built in 1854 as a wedding gift for William Backhouse Astor’s daughter, Mary Alida, (granddaughter of John Jacob Astor). It was one of the earliest… Read More
Inspiring Architectural Design: Berkeley House
It is difficult to overstate the fame and influence of the architectural firm McKim, Mead and White–their Newport treasures include Rosecliff as well as Berkeley House, our subject for today.… Read More
The Virtues of Autumn Clematis
Autumn is rather limited in the variety of plants that are still blooming now. But one, ‘clematis paniculata,’ or ‘Autumn Clematis,’ puts all others to shame with her fresh lime… Read More
Inspiring Architectural Design: Edgehill
As a true Texan would say, “I love that the welcome mat is always out and friends feel free to drop over anytime. I can come home and not know… Read More
Inspiring Architectural Design: Bois Doré
My last book, Living Newport: Houses, People, Style (2014), was a response to the latest evolution in our town’s 381 year history…the ability to work remotely that was accommodated by… Read More
An Impromptu Evening in September
This summer unofficially closed with a rare “balmy” night that prompted me to embrace the spirit of the last few months — finding a creative way to breach the stifling… Read More
A Closing Act on the Summer Season
Like so many silver linings in this Covid summer, the ‘Limelight’ hydrangeas are proving themselves the stars of my September season. Blooming a bit later this year than usual, perhaps… Read More