Artful Spaces
In keeping with his design aesthetic and the client’s vision, the interior — like the
exterior — maintains a simple, consistent palette. With the exception of spaces
where one would find tile such as the kitchen, mudroom and bathrooms, the
floors are all quarter and rift-sawn natural white oak, which creates continuity
between spaces in the mostly open floor plan. The detailing inside is also
intentionally minimal. “There are no casings on the windows or doors; everything
is done with reveals,” explains Brown. “Even the baseboard is flush with the
plaster above and there’s a little gap between the two.” The cleanliness of those
lines is a testament to the artistry of the design and caliber of its execution.
“The other thing I love about these kinds of houses, because they are somewhat
stark in their finishes and detail, is that they become perfect foils for interesting
furniture and interesting lighting and interesting cabinetry,” says Brown.
“I wanted the architecture to be art,” says the homeowner. “Rather than putting
art on the walls, we created architectural features that are interesting to look at.”
Fireplace walls in the den and living room were transformed into installations
through the creative use of tile and wood paneling. A unique feature wall in the
mostly glass entry is not only artful, it’s functional: The oak paneled wall conceals
a pocket door that can be closed to provide privacy in the living room.
FROM TOP RIGHT: Oak panels create an artful entry point into the living room, where the television is
recessed into a decorative wood paneled wall next to a porcelain tiled fireplace surround; in the den,
dark gray tile provides a backdrop for the gas fireplace.
RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY
l APRIL 2020 81