This shingle-style modern farmhouse was reimagined by Gale Goff Architects together with Kate Jackson Design, situated in Exeter a town in Washington County, Rhode Island. Originally constructed in 1916 by architect Peter Jackson, this secluded farmhouse boasts views of manicured pastures and babbling streams. The dwelling combines classic country character with modern-day amenities.

The project team collaborated to preserve this home’s history while incorporating elements of modern-day living. The owner is a talented weaver with a rare appreciation of fine woven materials (some time-worn, like vintage Japanese textiles) that add organic interest to the interiors. Beautiful vintage rugs were used and sustainably made custom seating and furnishings all contribute to the owner’s refined modern taste.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECTURE Gale Goff Architects INTERIOR DESIGN (Dogwood Farm) Kate Jackson Design INTERIOR DESIGN (Locust Lodge) Kirby Goff Interior Design BUILDER Ed Lacross LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Martha Moore 

Backstory: Dogwood at Locust Valley Farm was originally built in 1916 for the Grinnell family as a gentleman’s farm. A lower entry was used as a hunt room for the returning men, while upstairs, the living spaces are linked by galleries, which look out onto the river and waterfall. The kitchen and its pantries and larders were relegated to the servant’s wing. William Warner, the architect of downtown Providence, had been the last occupant and had moved the kitchen to a porch-like space off the main front hall. Although the view was better, it was cold and awkward, not allowing space for even the refrigerator and a long walk to the pantry for food storage.

What We Love: This Rhode Island farmhouse was beautifully updated to preserve the charm of its past while infusing it with modern-day amenities. Light-filled living spaces connect with nature thanks to large walls of glazing, creating an overall feeling of peace and tranquility. We love the concept of the “ski lodge” on the property—a fun spot to hang out by the pool during the summer and a cozy place to gather around the fireplace in the winter for this family of avid Nordic skiers.

]Tell Us: What details in this renovation project do you find most inspiring? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other delightful home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of Rhode Island: See the remarkable transformation of a beach barn house on Block Island and An impressive beach house in Rhode Island built to withstand storms.

Above: The kitchen of this Rhode Island farmhouse has a butler’s pantry and larder — featuring custom-fabricated slotted cabinetry. An antique gas stove was refurbished and set against the bisque-glazed brick wall. A stove pipe had damaged a portion of the brick, so the top was lowered and finished with a steel shelf. A modern oven and microwave are tucked around the corner in the pastry pantry. The island was a custom piece expertly crafted.

Above: What was originally an open porch and most recently the kitchen, is now a sunroom with views west to the river. 

The owners are avid Nordic skiers and wanted to add a ski lodge on the property. This new addition could double as a summer hangout for their new pool. The structure was built on a high knoll surrounded by oak and birch trees with views of the meadow below. Stone steps take you from a formal sunken garden to the “Lodge”. This new structure was conceived as a glass chapel commanding the high point of the property.

DOGWOOD LODGE

Designed as a “church” for gatherings around the pool and apres cross-country skiing. The building was designed with the original walled gardens and trellises in mind. White oak, stone, bluestone, zinc, and bronze blur inside from out. Interior finishings take their cue from the natural surroundings. Heavy linen covers, Belgian sofas and chairs, a steel drum for a coffee table in front of the fire, a walnut top desk with rough iron legs, and leather-wrapped chairs all evoke the building’s simplicity and honesty. A small kitchen, powder room, bunks, and outdoor shower allow for overflow for big family gatherings.

On cool summer evenings, the family and their friends can gather under the arbor by the fieldstone fireplace and gaze up at the stars. The arbor design and elements mimic the original arbor’s detailing but on a grander scale. Outdoor siding, beams, and rafters are Alaskan Yellow Cedar. The bluestone paving continues seamlessly from the pool deck and arbor patio to become the interior flooring. The interior framing and finish is White Oak, with massive oak and glass sliding doors.

Above: The utilities, kitchenette, and bathroom are tucked around the central shared chimney. 

PHOTOGRAPHER Anthony Crisafulli Photography