Shingle-Style Rhode Island Home Gets Stylish Beach Chic Makeover

A young family transforms an old, peculiar farmhouse into a welcoming, coastal-inspired abode.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 7:05am

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A young, growing family collaborated with Brewster Thornton Group Architects and SR Fine Home Builders to renovate their old, peculiar farmhouse near Newport, Rhode Island. Together with the talented owner/interior designer, the team transformed an unresolved exterior and challenging layout into a stylish, beachy shingle-style home with a fun, funky interior.

Why it matters

This reimagined farmhouse beautifully blends coastal charm with playful personality, transforming a once-quirky layout into a bright and welcoming family abode. The renovation highlights how thoughtful design can breathe new life into an older home, creating functional living spaces that cater to modern family needs.

The details

In the first phase, the team removed a pool addition, created a mudroom entry, and moved the kitchen to a more central location. Upstairs, a master suite was added. In the second phase, the octagonal tower became the focal point, with a new sweeping gable and large wrap-around porch enhancing the home's symmetrical facade. Inside, the design included a new foyer, living room, and reconfigured staircase that conceals a hidden playroom.

  • The renovation was completed in two phases over an undisclosed timeframe.

The players

Brewster Thornton Group Architects

The architectural firm that collaborated with the homeowners on the renovation project.

SR Fine Home Builders

The construction company that worked with the architects and homeowners to transform the property.

The homeowners

A young, growing family who owned the old farmhouse and worked with the design and construction teams to reimagine their home.

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The takeaway

This renovation project showcases how thoughtful design and a collaborative approach can transform an older, quirky home into a bright, welcoming, and functional family abode that seamlessly blends coastal charm with playful personality.