The Tale of a Turkey

“Swiss Village has been a part of everybody’s life in Newport,” the late owner recalls. “The Arthur Curtiss Jameses were so generous. In summers, when I was a little girl,…

Making Thanksgiving Memorable

Yet again, it was that stop by the pumpkin stand that inspired a Thanksgiving centerpiece which in turn inspired the look of the entire table. The mustard yellow pumpkin (“Tonda…

A Fall Centerpiece: Intriguing Combinations with Garden Favorites

Even though Parterre’s gardens are formal in a design sense, I always find a few spots where I can include certain plant material that is not usually associated with French…

All Around the House: Decorating with Pumpkins

Who doesn’t love driving past a farm stand packed with those jolly, fat fellows that always signal “it’s fall.” And I’ve noticed this year that more of the quirky, odd-colored…

‘Limelight’ Hydrangeas: An Autumn Gift from the Garden

The beautiful pristine white quality of these ‘Limelight’ hydrangeas at this time in the fall is a phenomenon! Just the softest blush of pink is starting to appear when they…

Carriage and Gate Houses of Newport, Part 2

There are more carriage and gate houses in Newport than I had ever imagined, so here is part 2 as a wrap-up to my summer post on the subject. I…

5 Scrumptious Containers that Prove You Can Still Garden into November

Receiving a text the other day from a creative savant and major plantsman, Kent Russell, (aka the Garden Guru), I hurried over to the Merrillton estate to see his newly planted…

Newport’s Architecture and History: An Artist’s Impressions

Richard “Dick” Grosvenor was one of the most beloved of Newport’s gentlemen, a celebrated artist, longtime educator (St. George’s School for 40 years), and historian with broad interests that included…

11 Cozy Autumn Spaces: Newport’s Private Side

Autumn is indeed an unforgettable time of the year, as well represented in Newport’s home decor. From cozy to stunning, these interior spaces capture all that is exceptional about this…

A Weekend in Woodstock, Vermont: A Tasty Fall Story

With Paris memories still vivid, I headed to Woodstock, Vermont this past weekend for a house party that traditionally marks the season. What better way to celebrate my return to…