Inspiring Spaces: Blithewold

There are some very special spaces that capture one’s heart. That is how I felt when we first visited Blithewold in Bristol, Rhode Island.

Historic Blithewold in Bristol Rhode Island - Finding Silver Pennies

It is a magical home and on a 33 acre estate set on the Naragansset Bay. As you can imagine, the views are AMAZING.

A few weeks ago, I shared with you all about our feature in the July issue of Romantic Homes.

Romantic Homes, July 2018 edition - Finding Silver Pennies

I mentioned in that post that I also wrote and photographed a travel piece on Bristol, RI.

Today I wanted to share a bit more about that article and share a some photos that didn’t make it into the issue, too.

New England Getaway, article by Danielle Driscoll of - Finding Silver Pennies

If you’re visiting New England this summer (or anytime) you need to stop by for a visit to this stunning home. I’ve visited in spring and summer, and each of the times I’ve been there the flowers have been gorgeous. In the winter, the home is decked out for Christmas.

The current home was built in 1907, after a tragic fire burned down the first house. This rebuild was done in the English country manor style of stone and stucco. You guys all know I love that English style 😉

On this particular trip we brought our children, and a lovely picnic, and spent the whole day enjoying the home and grounds.

Beautiful Blithewold, an old country house in Bristol, RI - Finding Silver Pennies

Isn’t the entry just stunning?!?

What I love about this home is that it’s so inviting. It isn’t as over-the-top and opulent as the mansions in Newport.

Gorgeous floor tiles - Finding Silver Pennies

How pretty is this tile on the breakfast porch?

Breakfast Porch at Blithewold - Finding Silver Pennies

The delicate wall paper in one bedroom is so whimsical. I would love it in our home.

Historic wallpaper at Blithewold - Finding Silver Pennies

The bathroom makes my heart skip a beat. Look at the double sinks:

Period bathroom with lovely sinks and brass fixtures - Finding Silver Pennies

I love the floor tiles and all that brass, worn with time.

The master bedroom is stunning with a hand-painted coastal scene.

Master Bedroom at Blithewold - Finding Silver Pennies

On the balcony is this sail coth swing:

Sailcloth Swing - Finding Silver Pennies

I particularly love the texture of the walls, it reminds me of what Jersey Ice Cream Company does on interior walls. I remember it being so cool out there even though it was a pretty warm July day.

Also on the balcony was this sweet boat. I bet the children and grandchildren had years of fun with this:

Vintage Boat - Finding Silver Pennies

The interior of the home is even more beautiful than my photos capture.

Walking the gardens and through the restored greenhouses was absolute heaven.

Strolling the greenhouses at Blithewold - Finding Silver Pennies

Pretty Ferns - Finding Silver Pennies

Greenhouse goals - Finding Silver Pennies

Lovely plants for the home - Finding Silver Pennies

I couldn’t help but wish for a greenhouse like this while we were there. Can you imagine having one in your yard?

Gardening dreams - Finding Silver Pennies

The family were avid gardeners and the grounds have over 2,000 species of trees and shrubs, both native and exotic varieties.

Our boys enjoyed seeing the giant sequoia, rumored to be the tallest tree of its kind, on the East Coast.

Summer garden at Blithewold - Finding Silver Pennies

Fragrant flowers - Finding Silver Pennies

Pine Bough - Finding Silver Pennies

Mounds and mounds of flowers - Finding Silver Pennies

Heavenly gardens - Finding Silver Pennies

On this particular day, we enjoyed a picnic on the dock which overlooks this little private beach.

Private Beach at Blithewold - Finding Silver Pennies

We’re hoping to get down there this summer for another visit. To help plan your visit, check out Blithewold’s website. They have a summer concert series on Wednesday nights. You should also check out my friend, Nancy’s, shop – The Sea Rose Cottage. I first discovered my love for painting furniture at Nancy’s beautiful shop.

Moongate - Finding Silver Pennies

A visit to Blithewold - Finding Silver Pennies

What places are inspiring you this summer? For more inspiring places, check out these posts.

 

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Kim O.
Kim O.
5 years ago

love Blithewold in winter and summer! Love Nancy’s shop too! I live in nearby MASSACHUsetts own and love spending time in Bristol and Warren.

Kim O.
Kim O.
5 years ago

Wow I need to put my glasses on when commenting

Ann Harris
Ann Harris
5 years ago

Is there any chance that you know the name of the beautiful wallpaper? Or perhaps the company that sells it? I LOVE it !!!