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…
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.…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Up the street, exactly one mile from me door to door, is a historic house renowned as one of only two homes in America both designed and decorated by Ogden…
As summer 2020 ends (Yikes! it’s already September 3), I find myself bemused and a bit befuddled by the bounty of the Cutting Garden. For as orderly and manicured as…
Traditions are important. As this wonky summer of 2020 comes to a close, I’m been very muck looking forward to penning this annual post. To add a bit more magic,…