As one would expect of a destination as high profile as Newport… from yachting regattas to extravagant weddings…our “City by the Sea” boasts many hotels and inns, most of them owned by entities outside of Newport. So it is both refreshing and a pleasure to write about a new boutique entry that is actually owned by two young men who hail from long-established Newport families. Howard Cushing III and Wirt Blaffer are just the ones to bring their fondness for our town to a memorable hotel introduction.

Inspiration abounds! Gardiner House is named after Howard’s great-grandfather, Howard Gardiner Cushing – the celebrated American impressionist painter whose singular artwork graces the walls of the Cushing Gallery in the Newport Art Museum, setting the scene for a nod to Newport’s artful history. As in one hallmark of their new boutique hotel which I find so compelling… the decision to re-create Mr. Gardiner Cushing’s entry hall mural (painted circa 1905) in the family’s1860s home, a “Newport cottage” that has had its share of cameos in movies, and most recently the television series, “The Gilded Age”. This whimsical artwork provides an alluring statement as it cloaks the intimate lobby and continues up the sweeping staircase.

The Gardiner House’s architecture is a welcome addition to Lee’s Wharf, just a short walk from Thames Street in the heart of Newport, amidst fabled dining and shopping stops.

Not only does the waterside hotel overlook one of Newport’s landmarks, IYRS (International Yacht Restoration School), its design fits in seamlessly with the rest of the 18th- and 19th-century buildings of downtown Newport (as seen from one of the guest rooms).

Gardiner House also boasts panoramic views of Newport Harbor which was uppermost in the designer’s mind when creating the terraces, Juliette balconies, and window seats of the 21 guest rooms. Howard’s Spanish-born wife, Lucia, has brought a young, fresh, and European perspective to the decor of each of these rooms, indulgent by their generous space and 14′ ceilings.

Another plus…while creating an intimate, homey mood in which to spend a few nights, the Gardiner House team also planned spacious indoor and outdoor spaces for entertaining, including an “Orangerie” style Sun Porch and the 2,400 sq. ft. Gardiner Ballroom, all of which feature magnificent floor to ceiling windows looking out to Newport’s harbor…and across a private sweep of green lawn (quite the elegant novelty in a harbor-side hotel).”Thoughtfully designed spaces that exceed every need and elevate every occasion”.

As one who lives in Newport, my go-to spot at Gardiner House is the signature Studio Bar with its delicious lacquered green walls and gold-leafed recessed ceiling…just oozing chic! Add cozy, art-filled walls, a working wood fireplace, and a stylish bar with a carefully crafted cocktail menu, and you’ll understand why I feel this inviting space is just the spot in which to start, or finish, a wonderful evening.

This jewel of a luxury boutique hotel was designed with forethought to welcome guests into a classic Newport setting that celebrates our iconic town’s art, music, history, drink, and love for entertaining. Have no doubt, this will be the new spot to see and be seen in Newport this summer of 2024. Don’t forget, the new indoor/outdoor restaurant will be opening soon!

24 Lees Wharf, Newport, RI 02840 USA (401) 436-0400

gardinerhouse.com

Feature Image Credit: Michael P.H. Clifford