Adjacent to protected coastal parkland, this shingle-style historic farmhouse and its new companion structures form a thoughtfully expanded family compound in Jamestown.
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Jamestown, Rhode Island
Coastal Family Compound
Project Partners
Family Retreat
During the pandemic, a family found refuge when they purchased a 1900 farmhouse estate set along the coastline of Jamestown. Within walking distance of the island’s rugged beaches, open meadows, and protected woodlands, the property offered both privacy and proximity to the landscape that defines the area. From the start, the clients saw its potential to become a true family compound.
Originally a turn-of-the-century dairy farm, the shingle-style main house and separate carriage house were timeless. Our clients could easily imagine expanding the property with a new pool, pool house, and guest cottage across the surrounding lawns. They hoped to create a secluded family retreat that could support multi-generational living and effortless entertaining, all while remaining closely tied to the local vernacular.
Unified Vision
Taste was brought in early to refresh select spaces in the historic main house and renovate the carriage house to improve functionality for gathering and entertaining. Project collaborator DiMauro Architects designed the new guest cottage and pool house, working closely with landscape architect Infinity Design Group. Behan Brothers served as builder, completing the project team. The shared goal was to introduce new programming that felt like a natural extension of the original farmhouse, while allowing each structure to have its own identity.
Across the compound, the interiors are unified by a consistent palette of warm neutrals, sea-glass greens, natural white oak, and crisp painted millwork, creating an easy elegance that feels both elevated and relaxed. Materials and finishes were selected with durability, comfort, and ease of use in mind, ensuring the spaces could support the realities of an active family home.
Guest Cottage
Designed as a self-sufficient retreat for visiting family and friends, the guest cottage balances compact functionality with a strong point of view. A small but well-appointed kitchenette features beadboard-panel cabinetry, reinforcing a casual beach-cottage feel while providing all the essentials for extended stays. Soft neutrals and natural wood accents keep the space warm and inviting, while thoughtful storage solutions ensure every inch works hard.
In the main living area, a built-in banquette creates additional seating and dining flexibility. A performance fabric sofa and flatweave rug were selected for durability and comfort, making the space easy to use throughout the season.
Pool House
The pool house was designed to feel like the ultimate summer hub. Bright, practical, and connected to the outdoors, the painted v-groove walls and cabinetry create a clean, tailored foundation, while pops of navy add crisp contrast and a classic coastal punch.
Belgian bluestone floors extend through the entry, kitchenette, and pantry, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor connection and standing up to wet feet and pool traffic. A mix of open shelving and closed cabinetry provides generous storage while offering space to display dishware and entertaining pieces.
The pool house bathroom is both functional and charming, featuring painted nickel-gap walls, smooth stone tile floors, and plenty of hooks for hanging wet towels. The space was designed with real summer living in mind.
Challenges Met
The project unfolded under a tight timeline, requiring constant coordination while maximizing functionality in compact footprints. Detailed millwork played a starring role throughout, demanding precision and clear communication across trades.
A fun challenge arose sourcing an authentic antique bucket and crank for the property’s stone wishing well. After an exhaustive search, we finally located and acquired historically accurate parts to complete the well’s restoration.
Despite the moving pieces, Taste kept the project on track by balancing site readiness with evolving project scope and ensuring every detail aligned with the broader vision.
A Family Forever Home
Today, our clients enjoy a refined yet relaxed family compound that supports both everyday living and large gatherings. The new guest cottage and pool house extend the design language of the main house while offering flexible, durable spaces that work year-round.
What was initially envisioned as a summer retreat has become a place the family returns to in every season – a reflection of a home designed to adapt, endure, and be shared for generations.
Full Project Gallery
Photographer:
Michael P. Lefebvre
